US-based sports technology provider PlaySight received an $11m investment on Friday from backers including Verizon Ventures, the corporate venturing subsidiary of telecoms firm Verizon.
The round was led by angel investor Greg Norman, through his family office and alongside his business partner David Chessler.
PlaySight’s platform SmartCourt uses multiangle video and analytics technology to help athletes improve their performance. The company has attracted dozens of partners in tennis and other sports, and will use the money to expand into additional sports verticals.
The cash will also support global expansion efforts. PlaySight previously raised $3.5m from angel investors in 2014, following a $1.5m commitment led by D5 Capital in 2012.
Chen Shachar, chief executive of PlaySight, said: “We place high value on the right strategic partners and are very excited to announce the investment from Verizon Ventures and Greg Norman as they assist in our growth and disruption in the sports world.
“We are connecting courts, fields, arenas and athletes all over the world through our technology and, just like our new partners, we are changing how sports are played and consumed.”
David Famolari, director at Verizon Ventures, said: “Sophisticated video, analytics and media solutions once reserved for professional athletes and teams are now becoming accessible to the masses.
“By leveraging a network of intelligent cameras, PlaySight’s cloud-based video and analytics platform transforms every sports field, court and gym into a smart, connected space and help athletes of all levels train smarter.
“We look forward to supporting PlaySight’s growth as the team continues to give facilities, coaches, recreational and youth athletes access to advanced sports technology.”