NBA referees are now better connected technologically: the league is introducing headsets to improve communication and decision-making. The system will be tested in two phases – initially only during breaks in play.
Since Saturday (November 1, 2025), referees in the NBA have been wearing headsets during regular season games for the first time. As announced by the league, this is the start of a two-stage project that will run into next year. In the first phase, which is expected to last until January, referees will only use the devices during replay reviews and game interruptions. Communication during the game will remain as it is now.
In the second phase, which will start after an evaluation of the first phase, the headsets will be in permanent use, even during live play. This will allow referees to communicate directly with the replay center and with each other in the future. The goal is to enable faster coordination in controversial situations and clearer decisions on the court.
The NBA has been testing the system since 2022 at various events, including the G League Winter Showcase, the Summer League, and preseason games. With its introduction in the regular season, the league is now following international examples—such as in soccer and rugby, where real-time communication between referees has long been standard.