With wings, beer and a compelling backstory, this casual sports fan can get into any game. Watching highlights from last night’s NBA All-Star game pointed me in the direction of the league’s brand-spankin’-new big data tool, NBA.com/Stats. Having spent a good chunk of my morning poking around the portal and manipulating data from as far back as the 1946-47 season, I’m finally understanding why my fantasy-league obsessed buddies have been in basketball nerd heaven all weekend.

A dashboard that a UI designer could get behind. This could be an interface straight out of a video game.

Simple, powerful, beautiful – this is big data done right. Powered by analytics software leader SAP’s HANA platform, the new stats tool has set a new precedent for sports leagues aiming to give their fans unparalleled insight and perspectives. You’ve got to check out this tool for yourself. In particular, explore the following features:

• Detailed Shot Charting – Visualize which players shoot most accurately from specific areas.
• Lineup Data – Learn more about how well a group plays as a unit.
• Clutch Performance Statistics – Toggle clutch variables and rate players outside of anecdotal evidence.

Goodbye speculation. The data sets at users’ disposal level the playing field between fan and franchise owner.

Come on, now. MLB, NFL, NHL – get it together. As of this past Friday, spreadsheets don’t cut it anymore.

I’m in awe. Fans now have the NBA’s entire statistical history at their fingertips, allowing an unprecedentedly objective view of the game. Casual and hardcore fans alike are now on equal footing with scouts and media. Armchair GM’s rejoice! I no longer have to watch the post-game show, parse together tweets or rely on speculation from my friends if I want a definitive answer as to why the Lakers are struggling this season. Sports league take notice: as of this past Friday, spreadsheets don’t cut it anymore.