Former NBA player and Dallas Bryan Adams High School graduate Kenyon Martin has been named chief basketball adviser by JumpShot Live, a new basketball-themed eatertainment company that’s establishing its headquarters in the Dallas area.
The announcement was made by CEO Derrick Mayes, who leads the company alongside co-founders and basketball enthusiasts Akhil Chandan and Jimmy Singh.
As Dallas Innovates reported in September, JumpShot Live utilizes cutting-edge, patent-pending technology, allowing hoops and nets to move dynamically along a 40-foot by 10-foot lane, enabling guests to shoot from almost anywhere on the court without leaving their player bay. The experience is further enhanced by projectors and LED screens, creating an immersive, digitally engaging environment, the company said. Bays will be clustered into unique “neighborhoods,” facilitating connected experiences for groups, sporting events and other activations.
Rendering of a JumpShot Live venue’s exterior. [Image: JumpShot Inc.]
The company said that Martin’s status as a former NBA All-Star brings credibility to his new position leading JumpShot’s basketball advisor group, which also includes such luminaries as Detlef Schrempf, Phil Handy, and Paige Bueckers. As the liaison between JumpShot’s leadership and its network of basketball advisers and investors, Martin will help align the JumpShot’s strategic direction with expert insights, ensuring meaningful contributions across the team.
“Kenyon’s extensive industry connections will be vital in building excitement for the JumpShot brand, helping us engage with potential partners, sponsors and influencers,” Chandan said in a statement. “He will also play a key role in guiding how best to involve our basketball advisors and investors to drive long-term success.”
A Dallas native, Martin played college basketball at the University of Cincinnati.
Rendering of some of Jumpshot Live’s custom-designed gaming bays. [Image: Barker Nestor]
No. 1 draft pick in 2000 NBA draft
After being selected by the New Jersey Nets with the first overall pick of the 2000 NBA draft, Martin played 15 seasons in the NBA with teams including the Denver Nuggets, where he played for seven seasons. His son, Kenyon Martin Jr., currently plays for the Philadelphia 76ers.
Jumpshot said that with Martin’s leadership, it gains a trusted and recognized figure in the basketball community as it prepares to move its corporate headquarters to the greater Dallas area next year.
Martin’s involvement with JumpShot Live as both adviser and investor will be instrumental in fostering connections and paving the way for future growth and deeper engagement with fans and partners, the company said.
“JumpShot Live is sure to captivate all guests, from basketball enthusiasts to those just looking for a fun and exciting experience,” Martin said. “My passion for the game and the support of an incredible team of basketball advisers will help make the JumpShot Live experience truly exceptional.”
In addition to Martin, JumpShot Live welcomed WNBA star Angel McCoughtry to its advisory board. A two-time Olympic gold medalist and WNBA veteran, McCoughtry’s insights will be instrumental in shaping the guest experience.
“Angel is our first WNBA investor advisor, and her involvement is essential as we work to create a diverse, engaging culture at JumpShot Live,” Singh said. “Her experience and perspective will help us redefine what entertainment means in a basketball context.”
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