NBA Officiating Can Improve: Here's How

Stifle Complaints

Stop the Flop

Improve the Game

There are two things need to be done for NBA referees to allow them to better call games.  Imagine what the Playoffs could be like with a little rules tweaking.

Problem

First, we need to minimize complaints about calls.  Many refs take much more lip than they should in order to ensure star players stay in the game.  So we see players and coaches running after refs with their arms widespread challenging calls. 

Solution

The refs should be given a less severe technical foul, not unlike the defensive three-second rule.  So if you complain, the ref can award the opposing team’s best shooter a single free throw.  Save the old fashioned “T” for the worst and chronic offenders.

I would like to see one game where no coach or player complained about a call the whole game.  Sweet thought, right?  We want ballers, not bawlers.

Problem

Perhaps the worst development over time has been the “Flop.”  Basketball is a transition game; you need to keep your feet.  But if there is contact anywhere on the floor, someone hits the deck and acts as if he has been seriously hurt.  My favorite is touching the face and checking the finger for blood. 

Flops under the basket, where it is frequently very crowded, is not only poor acting but dangerous.  How many injuries have been made because of someone’s blindly falling backwards into the legs of players.

Solutions

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