Full Breakdown
NBA Tests Smart Basketballs and Wrist-Wearable Referee Gear in Preseason
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Development: New Tech in Exhibition Games
The National Basketball Association announced that select preseason exhibition games will feature two experimental technologies. A “smart” basketball equipped with a Bluetooth sensor, developed by Wilson, will capture real-time data that the league intends to study for future officiating applications. In the same games, referees will wear wrist-mounted devices that allow direct communication with the league’s replay center during replay reviews, scoring adjustments, and clock-related issues.
Technology Details and Intended Use
The connected ball records metrics such as spin, trajectory and impact force, transmitting the information wirelessly to a data hub. The NBA clarified that the data will be used solely for research and will not influence any calls made during the exhibition contests. The wrist wearables function as a two-way link, enabling officials to receive instant guidance from the replay center without the need for traditional hand-held radios or sideline consoles.
Pilot Results and Limitations
According to the league, the wrist-wearable system completed a “successful pilot program” during the summer league earlier in the year. The smart basketballs also completed initial testing in the same setting. Both technologies are being evaluated for reliability, accuracy, and potential to streamline the officiating workflow. The NBA emphasized that neither the smart balls nor the wearables will be deployed in the regular season, indicating that the experiments are confined to the preseason environment.
Potential Impact on Officiating
If the research confirms that the sensor data can improve the precision of calls, the league could eventually integrate such insights into real-time decision-making tools. The wrist-wearable communication model may reduce delays associated with traditional replay procedures, potentially leading to faster resolutions of disputed plays and clock errors.
Next Steps
The NBA plans to analyze the collected data after the preseason schedule concludes. Findings will inform whether the league will pursue broader trials or incorporate any of the technologies into future seasons, though no definitive timeline has been announced.