Evolv Technology, renowned for advancing modern security solutions, has introduced its weapons detection system at Toyota Center, the home venue of the NBA's Houston Rockets. The newly installed Evolv Express® systems premiered when the Rockets faced the Utah Jazz on January 20.
These systems, designed to enhance security processes, are now operational in an arena that accommodates over 18,000 spectators. The Rockets drew inspiration from the successful implementation of Evolv by the Houston Astros and Houston Texans, especially following the NBA’s recent acceptance of this technology.
Seamless security screening
Doug Hall, general manager and senior vice president of Toyota Center, expressed enthusiasm for the new collaboration, stating, “We are excited to partner with Evolv Technology to enhance our fan experience while maintaining the safety of our arena. This partnership is focused on utilising cutting-edge technology to create a safer, faster and better screening process for our guests as they enter Toyota Center.”
Toyota Center now shares this advanced security feature with six other NBA arenas
The Evolv Express system integrates sensor technology with artificial intelligence to accurately differentiate between everyday items and potential threats, distinguishing objects like phones from firearms. This allows fans to enter the arena at normal walking speeds without the bottleneck often caused by traditional security checks such as metal detectors and manual wanding. Toyota Center now shares this advanced security feature with six other NBA arenas, including Denver's Ball Arena.
Growing adoption and success
Jay Muelhoefer, chief commercial officer of Evolv Technology, highlighted the effectiveness of their systems, remarking, “There is no greater indication of Evolv’s success than to have customers recommend the technology to each other the way they did in Houston. We’re thankful for Toyota Center’s partnership and humbled that with the addition of the arena to our roster, close to 50 professional U.S. sports teams now use Evolv.”
Since the introduction of Evolv Express in 2019, the company has processed screenings for over 1 billion individuals. Toyota Center joins a growing number of sports teams and facilities across the United States and globally that incorporate Evolv Technology into their security measures.
