This week, Cisco and NBA celebrate how the Internet of Everything (IoE) powers the fan experience. Thanks to advancements in technology, we're changing courtside connectivity between the game, the player and the fan.

Like any NBA team, an IT infrastructure begins with a starting lineup of technologies that enable a winning Internet of Everything strategy. In excitement for the NBA All-Star game, Cisco picked its Starting Five for today's IT environment. Check out our picks below and share your favorites on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook using the tag#ConnectedFan.

Point Guard:

A point guard is fast and agile, and responds quickly to pressing demands brought about by unseen difficulties. Any coach can appreciate the "automatic" abilities of a veteran point guard who can sense problems before they happen and eliminate the headaches to improve the overall team's performance. Like any successful point guard, IoE can help accelerate your organization's ability to compete in today's dynamic market. Through the enablement of people, process, data and things, IoE is estimated to drive a 21% increase in corporate profits.

Shooting Guard:

The shooting guard is a high profile position that drives results. The efficient creation, deployment and management of applications in today's environment greatly affect the bottom line. ACI has the potential to drive high-visibility, high-impact results for the organization that no other technology can make.

Small Forward:

Quick and lean, the small forward is the most versatile player who just gets the job done. Like Fast IT, the small forward is in the trenches and works with the team to accomplish bigger goals. Fast IT is Cisco's operational model for the Internet of Everything, providing organizations with the ability to provide the connectivity that allows IoE to provide a real impact on businesses that didn't exist just a few years ago.

Power Forward:

The power forward is the team's most powerful traveler, known for mid-range jump shots and the ability to fulfill multiple roles in your lineup. With today's mobile workforce and the continued proliferation of connected devices, your mobility strategy must be equally expansive and adaptable to effectively meet today's business demands on your network.

Center:

This is your bigman - the tallest player in your lineup who is the anchor for your team's defense. With a Fast IT model, security enables you to assess, react to, and guard against threats.