ESPN is now reassessing its AI-made promotional materials amid online backlash around Tony Parker's presentation in Game 1.
The 2026 NBA Finals already managed to live up to the hype as early as Game 1. From Jalen Brunson's epic takeover amid injuries, Dylan Harper's historic performance and the infamous on-court entry of a fan for a Victor Wembanyama selfie, this year's title series opener is simply wild and an absolute rollercoaster.
Tony Parker
Tony Parker
Position: PG
Age: 44
Height: 188 cm
Weight: 84 kg
Birth place: Bruges, Belgium
But amid a memorable Game 1 between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs, everyone also can't seem to forget the bizarre editing made by ESPN on Tony Parker, igniting backlash across the NBA community.
In a promo during their NBA Finals television coverage, the media giant flashed their generative AI look of Parker's moving portrait from the Spurs' 2003 NBA championship victory. As such, the French icon's appearance was visibly odd compared to the original picture, much to the displeasure of many.
In the wake of criticisms regarding this, ESPN is now already looking to reevaluate their made AI promos for the remainder of the Finals series, according to Front Office Sports' Colin Salao.
"ESPN is reassessing its in-game promotional materials after an AI-generated image of Tony Parker sparked online backlash."
Everyone can only wait and anticipate the changes ESPN will make to its NBA Finals presentation moving forward.
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