Extreme Networks and the NFL have agreed to a multi-year deal that retains Extreme as wifi analytics provider through 2024. The arrangement could have major repercussions for in-game betting from an in-stadium point of view with the growth of mobile sports wagering, according to Sports Handle.
The San Jose-based Extreme Networks will add new Wi-Fi 6 for several NFL franchises, including the Baltimore Ravens, Green Bay Packers, New England Patriots, and Seattle Seahawks. Wi-Fi 6 is pegged as the next generation of Wi-Fi based on increased speed and efficiency.
“Stadium environments require high-density, powerful Wi-Fi networks that can be adjusted and scaled depending on the needs of each event, and these are environments where Extreme excels,” COO Norman Rice, said in a press release. “With the right network technology and analytics in place, the NFL can continue to make data-driven decisions that advance the game and keep fans engaged.”
In-game betting accounted for 35 percent of PointsBet’s handle in 2019, but this summer, the figure grew to some 50 percent, PointsBet U.S. Head of Trading Jay Croucher told USBets in June. By 2023, the in-game portion could rise to 70 percent.
On September 19, the Kansas City Chiefs’ in-game odds jumped to +800 in the closing minutes against the Baltimore Ravens, after Kansas City running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire lost a fumble with the Chiefs in field goal range with 1:25 left.
Analysts predict in-game betting to become more prominent during the season as a result of league partnerships with Genius Sports and other related organizations.
“Our partnership with Extreme allows us to stay ahead of the curve, providing every team in the NFL with a resource for leading stadium Wi-Fi network technology,” said Michelle McKenna, the NFL’s chief innovations officer in a statement. “We’re extending our relationship with Extreme because we want to continue working with a partner that is equally invested in creating a superior fan experience every single week.”
Under the revised partnership, Extreme will work with an additional five NFL stadiums, home to six teams, including SoFi Stadium, home to Super Bowl LVI in February, the company said.
