The Sacramento Kings, one of the NBA’s four California-based teams, has linked up with text messaging platform Zipwhip to become the first professional sports team to begin using RCS messaging.

RCS, which stands for Rich Communications Services, is the next generation of SMS text messaging which brings many of the features associated with messaging apps and chat platforms – such as high-resolution photos, audio, and file sharing – to texting.

The Kings will use RCS to improve the way the franchise communicates information about ticketing, game schedules, and other general news with fans.

“We are always looking for ways to ensure the Golden 1 Center experience seamlessly extends off the court and into the hands of our fans and guests through their devices,” said Ryan Montoya, Sacramento Kings CTO. “Thanks to Zipwhip, we can provide our fans with the latest technology to stay connected, communicate with the franchise and get the information they need.”

Fans will be able to engage with the Kings via RCS through the team’s toll-free phone line at 833-91KINGS. However, the service will initially only be available to Android users on the Sprint network.