- The Cleveland Cavaliers are launching NFT "lockers" for fans to collect and display digital tokens.
- Fans who attend home games in Cleveland will have access to game-exclusive NFTs.
- The NFT lockers are set to "unlock" on February 6 when the Cavs play the Indiana Pacers.
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The Cleveland Cavaliers just announced a new non-fungible token project in partnership with NFT platform Sweet.
Starting today, the NFT project, which is geared toward "the most passionate Cavs fans," offers fans a chance to claim a free NFT Locker, which will act as a virtual showcase for displaying Cavs-themed digital collectibles.
New York-based Sweet is an NFT platform and marketplace that emphasizes immersive and gamified experiences, according to its website.
The locker is set to "unlock" on February 6th ahead of the Cavs vs. Indiana Pacers game. Those who attend the game in person will receive the first Cavaliers NFT, in the form of a digital t-shirt, which they can display in a locker.
Fans attending home games will be eligible to receive game-issued digital collectibles, which are available only to attendees at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.
"Ultimately, this will be an on-going promotion," said Mike Conley, chief information officer for the Cavaliers. "Fans can continue to build out, curate, and showcase their 'My Cavs Locker' into the future."
According to a Cleveland Cavaliers press release, future NFTs could take the form of sneakers, jackets and shirts, and will evolve into more "immersive" experiences.
The sports world has increasingly adopted NFTs as digital extensions of physical memorabilia.
Despite the recent crypto slump, NBA Top Shot NFTs continue to grow in popularity. Recently retired NFL legend Tom Brady plans to spend more time building his own NFT platform, Autograph, which has raised $170 million.
"We see this as a model for how teams can use this new digital tech to empower their fans to literally showcase how much they love their favorite franchises," said Tom Mizzone, CEO of Sweet.io.