With a view to improving efficiency and entertainment, innovation in two phases: until January communications only during breaks, from 2026 directly during the game
After the earthquake of the betting scandal, which upset the start of the 2025-26 season, the NBA is once again thinking about ensuring further positive developments for its product. The Grande Lega, which constantly works to guarantee the best show together with the fairest possible running of the matches, launched an important official statement on October 31st. In fact, starting on Saturday 1st November, the NBA referees will use dual-purpose earphones: on the one hand they will be able to communicate with each other, on the other they will be connected directly with the NBA Replay Center. But, at least at the beginning, not directly during the game.
first phase
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The one that will start first will be the initial phase of two steps designed to increase efficiency. Each referee will wear a headset, attached to their uniform, which they will then use exclusively during the review of the instant replay and in some interruptions of play, in order to also communicate with each other, if necessary. Nothing will change for now in the actual match. At least this will be the script until January.
second phase
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The second, more experimental, part of the initiative will start in 2026. At that point, after two months of initial testing, the referees will have the opportunity to communicate with each other and with the Replay Center even during the actual course of the game. For what would be an epochal turning point. The second phase will certainly last until the break for the All Star Game, which will be held on the weekend between 13 and 15 February 2026 in Inglewood, California. The new technology, which could become an integral part of the NBA, has already been tested in the G League (the satellite league) and in the last two preseasons.
La Gazzetta dello Sport
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