NBA Commissioner Adam Silver announced plans to implement an AI-based video replay system that will fully automate objective refereeing calls starting before the 2026-27 season [1, 2, 3]. The system will handle rulings such as out-of-bounds and ball possession decisions, removing these responsibilities from human referees [1, 2, 4, 3].
The AI will use multiple cameras placed around arenas and technologies similar to those in Major League Baseball’s electronic strike zone and tennis Hawk-Eye systems to provide instant, real-time rulings [1, 2, 3]. The goal is to improve game flow by reducing delays from coach challenges and replay reviews [1, 2, 3].
Silver said, "Those calls will in the future be completed by AI automated systems equipped with cameras around the arena, taking all so-called 'objective decisions' from referees' hands" [1]. He added that this will allow human referees to focus on subjective calls like fouls, defensive contact, and intentional flops, which require judgment [1, 2, 3].
The announcement followed a controversial out-of-bounds call during Game 5 of the 2026 Western Conference Finals on May 27, which significantly affected the San Antonio Spurs’ series against the Oklahoma City Thunder. The missed call helped the Thunder take a 3-2 series lead [2, 4, 3]. Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson protested the ruling and received a technical foul, fueling the league’s push for automated officiating [2, 3].
Silver acknowledged the challenges of distinguishing flopping types: "We recognize intentional deception is a problem but accept some exaggeration as part of player behavior" [1, 2]. The AI system will not address subjective elements such as these.
Commissioner Silver said, "The refereeing quality can always improve. We have been working on that and plan to introduce AI referees to handle calls like out-of-bounds and ball possession objectively, allowing human refs to focus on subjective calls" [2].
The NBA plans to deploy the new replay system before the 2026-27 season begins, aiming to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and fairness on the court [1].
