Coaches Challenged by NBL

A loophole that allowed coaches to challenge some referee calls based on a technicality has been closed with the NBL moving to fix the Coaches Challenge rule in games.

In the past coaches were able to challenge certain foul calls, because the incorrect foul type was used. But moving forward, that will no longer be the case.

In a memo sent to clubs, the NBL explains, “This change is intended to address reporting errors by referees where the incorrect foul type is reported”.

The amendment would have avoided last year’s controversial circumstances when the Perth Wildcats secured a win over Melbourne United in overtime. The Wildcats eventually won the game 102-95 but only after United guard Matthew Dellavedova was denied a free throw after levelling the scores with 1.8 seconds on the clock.

The referees had called a pushing foul on Alex Sarr during Dellavedova’s drive and score, but Wildcats’ coach John Rillie used a challenge to successfully have the call overturned. The review centre determined Sarr did not “push” Dellavedova and no free-throw ensued.

After the game however, the NBL conceded Sarr committed a “hands foul” but the Coach’s Challenge rules at the time did not allow for the infringement type to be changed.

“Our coaches are intense competitors and they do a great job at identifying opportunities to gain an advantage, and that’s all credit to them, but it’s our job to make sure we get the right outcome,” Chief Operating Officer & Head of Basketball Operations, Vince Crivelli said.

“With this rule, a foul will be a foul, and we will have the opportunity to ensure that players aren’t getting away with infringements based on a technicality or an interpretation of what foul was committed.

“The change creates a situation where we will be able to deliver a fair outcome for all, whenever a call is challenged.”