Flagship NBA Store debuts resources for customers with sensory needs

NEW YORK (FOX5NY.COM) - The NBA is well aware that the excitement of sporting events can often be overwhelming for those on the autism spectrum. And so, not only are 20 NBA teams taking steps to make their venues more inclusive but on World Autism Awareness Day, the NBA's flagship retail store debuted a special change.

While other retailers have held sensory-friendly shopping days, the NBA Store is the first in the world to make sensory-inclusion a permanent part of its operations.

With the help of KultureCity, a nonprofit organization dedicated to rethinking accessibility, the NBA Store on Fifth Avenue has made changes to better meet the needs of those with sensory issues.

On Monday, students from Adelphi University's Bridges Program were among the first to check out the store's sensory bags, which contain items like headphones and fidget toys. The students, all sports management majors, got the full retail experience and joined Kyle O'Quinn from the New York Knicks on a shopping spree and tour.

And while sensory accommodations like headphones are helpful, an even more important element in this initiative was proper education. Every employee here was trained and certified.