NBA Referees to Wear Headsets During Live Play in Testing Phase

The NBA has resumed using headsets, headpieces, and microphones for referees during all game play. Testing restarted on Tuesday, Jan. 20, and will run through Feb. 12 in advance of the NBA All-Star Weekend.

During the first phase of testing, from Nov. 1 through Dec. 12, referees had the headsets clipped onto their uniforms. They then used the headsets during instant replay reviews and other game stoppages, but not during live play.

According to The Associated Press, during this second phase of testing, referees will wear the earpieces throughout the game, including during live play. They will be able to communicate directly with the replay center and each other at all times during a game.

Officials said the first phase of testing with the headsets improved officiating accuracy and game flow. The current phase aims to enhance audio quality and reliability for communication with the replay center and fellow referees during live play. This testing aims to fix earlier audio quality issues and communication disruptions while expanding use to live play.

According to the AP, the NBA has been testing this technology since 2022 at events like the G League Winter Showcase, NBA Summer League, and preseason games. The headsets have already been used by referees in the NFL, FIFA, the top soccer leagues in England and Germany, and Major League Soccer.