The city’s first public “smart” basketball hoop, known as Huupe, has been stripped of its Internet live-streaming feature due to concerns over inappropriate content being broadcasted. Huupe was donated to Manhattan’s Tompkins Square Park last month, but had to be disconnected from the internet because of these concerns. This decision was made by the company CEO, Paul Anton, in order to maintain a focus on the device’s primary function of shot-tracking, promoting physical activity for kids and athletes.
Despite the removal of the live-streaming feature, Huupe offers unique functions such as watching YouTube, receiving on-demand training, and playing with others from around the world on its backboard screen. However, the hoop has not gained much popularity among players at Tompkins Square Park. It is reported that the hoop has largely been untouched, with traditional basketball hoops being preferred by locals. Many players find the technology distracting and prefer the simplicity of traditional hoops, stating that the technology detracts from the experience and causes them to overthink their shots.
Some users, like Majesty Da Rebel, have praised Huupe for being revolutionary in the basketball culture, highlighting its uniqueness and advanced features. However, others have raised concerns about its under-use, citing various reasons such as its location in an unkempt corner of the park, unclear 3-pointer lines, and rumors about its height not meeting standard requirements. Additionally, the screen on the hoop is reportedly not bright enough to use at night, and there are concerns about its durability, particularly the backboard screen.
Despite these issues, Huupe has not faced any hardware problems according to CEO Paul Anton, who personally checks on the device multiple times a day. It provides real-time shot tracking and distance measurements, displaying shot charts similar to those used in the NBA. Anton believes that Huupe is superior to other basketball hoops in terms of its technology and features, making it ideal for those aspiring to go pro and improve their game.
The Huupe project aligns with the trend of introducing high-tech initiatives in New York City, including efforts by the Adams administration to bring technology to parks. Huupe is set to be available for public use until October, after which it will be stored during the winter months. Plans for its next location beyond Tompkins Square Park have not yet been decided, leaving its future uncertain. Despite some challenges and limitations, Huupe remains a groundbreaking innovation in the world of basketball, offering advanced features and real-time tracking capabilities not seen in traditional hoops.
