Should The NBA Use More Instant Replay?

Introducing Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in sports has sparked widespread debate and divided opinions about its impact and effectiveness.

On the one hand, fans and experts champion its ability to support referees in making timely and accurate decisions, eliminating shock calls that can turn a game or event on its head. However, some believe VAR ruins the flow and momentum that make sports like soccer and basketball unique and entertaining.

Is The NBA Using Enough Instant Replay?

The NBA has not fully integrated VAR into every facet of the game as other sports have. It’s still used sparingly in the form of an “Instant Replay” review. The NBA covers the use of VAR in ‘Rule No. 13,’ where it sets out 15 game events that trigger its usage. These events include when a foul is called at the end of a period and when a field goal is scored with 0:00 on the clock. 

Video replays are designed to uphold the integrity of the game by making sure the correct calls are made, especially in those crucial moments after critical plays. This reduces (or at least is designed to) controversy and disputes, and in a league as competitive as the NBA, ensures every team is treated fairly.

Referees, constantly under pressure to make the right calls, also get invaluable support backed by video evidence that the audience can see themselves. While officials don’t want to rely on VAR for every decision, instant replays help them review incredibly close and challenging calls, and in critical game situations, this is vital.

How has VAR changed the NBA fan experience?

Now for the fans. VAR has reduced the chances of missed or incorrect calls, giving them peace of mind that outcomes of key games won’t be decided by human error or a poor decision. Fans generally want to see fair play and officiating. Then, win or lose, they can attribute the outcome to what happened on the court and not any deficiencies in officiating. 

This is more evident during the resolution of critical moments at the end of periods and games. VAR brings clarity to these moments and allows fans to appreciate excellent plays without lingering doubt about whether, for example, a foul or other violation was committed. Accurate calls for game-winning shots make the moment all the sweeter. 

Another potential benefit — though this can be debated — is the added suspense that instant replays bring. Some fans enjoy the drama of video replay reviews, the sense of anticipation, and the fact that a call could be overturned and potentially help their team. This adds a new dimension to watching basketball as coaches and players hold their breath and wait for that final decision.

Rather than just celebrating moments as they happen, they can effectively celebrate twice if and when the play is confirmed to be legitimate. This is a double-edged sword, though, as exceptional plays that change games can be chalked off, reducing the immediate thrill of watching sports and perhaps even cheapening those big moments.

What cannot be argued is that technology is reshaping sports in ways that fans couldn’t have imagined even 20 years ago. This is true for sports betting, which has evolved with new bonuses, enhanced security, and live betting features to keep pace with players’ changing demands and expectations. 

Are there downsides to the use of VAR in the NBA?

While tech is transforming sport in many ways — even down to professional players’ diets and sleep schedules — using VAR has not been without its downsides. 

Before video replays were used, its introduction was expected to end all disputes and controversies and be the final word every time. However, fans are frustrated by how it’s applied, with some minor replays reviewed and other questionable calls left unexamined. When VAR isn’t always used effectively, it can raise questions about why it’s used in the first place.

In addition to inconsistent applications, one of the biggest complaints is how it disrupts sports’ natural flow and momentum, particularly one so fast-paced as basketball. The game is about continuous movement and quick plays, and the extended breaks for reviews often only interrupt the rhythm of exciting games, which can deflate fan enthusiasm and sap players’ energy on the court.

The loss of in-the-moment celebrations has been widely cited as a concern with VAR in other sports like soccer, where goals can be ruled out. This is a problem when only several defining moments in a game exist. This is less of an issue in basketball as NBA teams score an average of around 114 points per game, and it would take a lot of unsure calls and VAR referrals to make that much of a difference in the result.

However, celebrating a clutch shot and buzzer beater can be made irrelevant when a referee uses video replay to call a violation minutes later. The loss of spontaneity for fans can make them skeptical about getting lost in the moment. Immediate emotional responses make sports so compelling and thrilling to watch; delayed confirmation only intrudes on this joy and excitement.

Well, we know VAR isn’t going anywhere, and before the 2024/25 season, the NBA confirmed that it has allowed instant replays for out-of-bounds reviews. Going ahead, there will be a new set of rules to determine whether a foul occurred before the violation occurred, and the referee will be able to act on this information and footage accordingly.

The NBA is addressing fan concerns about video replays with new time limits and review centers aimed at streamlining and optimizing the process. Improving the transparency of these discussions will help, too. Fans want to enjoy a traditional basketball game, like the old days, with the peace of mind that technology is advancing and supporting the sport rather than taking away a big part of the live experience.

Should The NBA Use More Instant Replay?

To conclude, it’s difficult to make an objective call on how VAR impacts a fan’s enjoyment of the NBA. Some fans believe accurate calls are of the utmost importance and interruptions are worth it if the right decision is made, while others will mourn the loss of celebrating moments without the fear of that excitement being diminished moments later.

VAR will remain a fixture in the NBA, and it’s up to those in power to ensure it supports referees and enhances game calls without detracting from the joy for fans, who are the lifeblood of the game.