INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — Whether it’s Pacers player Tyrese Haliburton on the free throw line or players Pascal Siakam and Bennedict Mathurin running down the court, sports fans nationwide have likely noticed the QR code on the left hand side of their jerseys during the Pacers playoff run.
That QR code is affiliated with Spokenote, a Fishers, Indiana company founded by Indiana University Kelley School of Business Indianapolis alumnus John Wechsler, BS’90.
“Kelley gave me a launchpad—not just for a career, but for a way of thinking. It helped turn me into a builder,” Wechsler said when reflecting on his time as a student. “Staying rooted here in Indiana, I’ve been able to take that education and use it to help others start, scale, and thrive.”
The QR code’s purpose on the Pacers jersey is to engage fans. By scanning the patch, fans can watch exclusive content from the team and be directed to Pacers-affiliated links.
The Pacers have also used Spokenote’s technology on commemorative tickets and buttons. Fans can scan the QR code to upload photos or video, creating a digital memory book that can be accessed through the QR code in the future.
The Pacers and Spokenote partnership won the 2024 NBA Changemaker of the Year Award—a league award that recognizes innovation that advances team business priorities in non-traditional ways. It is the first scannable patch ever placed on a professional sports jersey.
Spokenote’s Kelley Indianapolis connection doesn’t end with Wechsler.
Some of the people working closest to Wechsler include other fellow Kelley Indianapolis alum, like Chief of Staff Karen Woods, BS’09.
“Kelley provided a strong foundation in strategy, collaboration, and practical problem solving,” said Woods. “The focus on real-world application continues to serve me well as chief of staff at Spokenote, where I help optimize team operations, lead strategic initiatives, and support our growth.”
Spokenote is also affiliated with the IU Angel Network, one of three investment programs managed by IU Ventures. Established in 2010, IU Ventures focuses on assisting IU students, faculty, staff, and alumni with new venture opportunities. The Angel Network sources deals for members to invest their own capital.
The Pacers will take on Oklahoma City Thunder in game seven of the NBA Championship on Sunday, June 22.
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