Pacers QR code patch, explained: What is Spokenote and how does uniform sponsorship work?

Ahead of the 2017-18 season, the NBA made the groundbreaking decision to allow teams to sell jersey sponsorships. The jersey advertisements, which are featured as patches on the front left shoulder of each jersey, have evolved over the years and taken on a life of their own.

Six years after jersey patches were first introduced, the Pacers have made yet another groundbreaking decision, introducing a first-of-its-kind jersey patch by placing a QR code on their uniforms. The sponsorship, which is with Indiana-based brand Spokenote, makes use of QR (quick-response) technology, which has increased in prevalence over the last five years.

Here's what to know about the Pacers' jersey patch, the company it represents and how the QR technology works on a basketball uniform.

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What is the Pacers' QR code patch?

When scanned, the QR code-like jersey patch unlocks exclusive content for fans of the Pacers. Indiana debuted the patch in-game on Jan. 3 when it took on the Bucks.

The Pacers are the first professional sports team in the United States to feature a QR code-like patch on their regular season and postseason jerseys.

"We are thrilled to have Spokenote as our jersey patch partner, and their innovative product will allow us to engage our fans in many new and different ways,” Pacers Sports & Entertainment President and Chief Commercial Officer Todd Daylor said in an official release.

“We are extremely proud to assist a local startup on its journey to becoming a widely known consumer brand."

What is No. 30 patch on Pacers' uniforms?

The No. 30 patch on the Pacers' uniforms is in memory of Basketball Hall of Famer George McGinnis, who died of heart complications on Dec. 14, 2023.

Over four ABA seasons with Indiana, McGinnis averaged 25.2 points, 12.9 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 2.2 steals per game, earning three All-Star appearances and one MVP award as a member of the Pacers. He was selected by the 76ers with the No. 22 pick in the 1973 NBA Draft. After moving to the NBA's 76ers and playing for the Nuggets, McGinnis rejoined the Pacers, now in the NBA, in 1980.

McGinnis is one of just four players to have their number retired by the Pacers and is one of the most iconic players in the franchise's history.

What is Spokenote?

Spokenote is a tech startup company based in Fishers, Ind.

A trip to Spokenote's website shows that QR codes are the focal point of the business. Spokenote's QR codes serve as custom stickers that link to personalized messages, as outlined in the video below.

Here is more from the brand:

Spokenote technology allows users to pair videos with a unique Spokenote code. This QR codeplus enables individuals to connect their digital memories and messages to a physical Spokenote sticker with its own unique digital landing page. Consumers nationwide have used Spokenote stickers to enhance thank you notes, greeting cards, home deliveries, and other personal interactions.  Spokenote technology that has also been used by a wide range of organizations to engage their stakeholders and customers.

NBA jersey patch sponsors

27 of the 30 NBA teams have sponsors on their jerseys. The Clippers, Grizzlies and Trail Blazers do not currently have a jersey sponsor. Each team and its current jersey sponsor can be found below.