The 64 GB version of the "new iPad" will provide players with practice schedules, scouting reports and stats from games and practices. They'll also be updated with video content from practice and games, as well as clips breaking down players' tendencies and what to expect from opponents. While Duke is the first in the college basketball world to announce the migration to tablet technology, a number of NFL teams have already done so.
"The Duke basketball program is always trying to equip our players and staff with the very best resources, and the introduction of the iPads is another step in that direction," associate head coach Steve Wojciechowski told GoDuke.com. "This new technology will help all of us work more efficiently and productively, while communicating at a higher level. We are very excited to involve the iPads in our day-to-day operations, evaluating our scouting, video analysis, schedule and game preparation."
Duke is one of college basketball's most historically successful programs. Besides adding convenience, the new player iPads will help the Blue Devils impress recruits in the ever-escalating college sports arms race for talent, luxury and cutting-edge technologies.
Using the $829 stock price of a 64 GB new iPad and assuming it bought devices for 12 scholarship players and four assistant coaches, Duke would have shelled out more than $13,000 for the fleet of new technology. A group discount was almost certainly provided and the cost may well have been covered by program backers, but the steep total still shows how expensive it is to stay ahead in college sports.
Players can use the devices as long as they remain a part of the team. The iPads will remain school property for that time, but players can then buy them at market value upon graduation if desired. In addition to game film and practice schedules, they'll also be able to use their iPads for scholastic help, personal entertainment and social media. Tracking software will enable the devices to be memory-wiped if lost or stolen by University of North Carolina fans looking to get a peek at the Duke game-plan.