NEW YORK — Commencing this Saturday, officials in the National Basketball Association will initiate the use of communication headsets during scheduled regular-season contests, marking a league first.
The league disclosed this information Friday, unveiling a two-part strategy for the integration of these devices. The initial phase, anticipated to extend into the month of January, will involve referees wearing the earpiece attached to their standard uniform. The utilization of the device will be restricted to moments of instant replay review and other scheduled breaks in play. Active game play will not involve the use of the earpiece during this time.
The subsequent phase — contingent upon a thorough assessment of the initial implementation — will observe referees wearing the earpieces consistently throughout the entirety of the game, encompassing live action. This allows for direct communication with the replay center, as well as constant communication among themselves. This second phase is planned to continue until at least the All-Star break occurring in February.
Comparable technology has been in practice in various other leagues globally for a significant duration. The NBA has conducted trials of this technology since the year 2022, employing it at various events. These events included the G League winter showcase, the NBA summer league, and scheduled NBA preseason games.
