Each week, experts are analysing the games. In order to improve the understanding of referees' decisions and to increase the transparency towards our fans, we publish some of those "tough calls", together with an explanation.

Please find below the latest "tough calls":

Tough Call 1 - Wrong shooter on the free throw line

During the Blue team offense, Blue 7 drives to the basket and is fouled in the act of shooting (pushing & touching the shooter’s arm) by defender Yellow 7 who receives also a technical foul for his excessive behavioral reaction. The official awards 2 free throws for the shooting foul, followed by 1 free throw and possession for the technical foul. However Blue 3 appears on the free throw line and attempts the 2 free throws, the first missed and the second successful. The officials recognize the violation that Blue 7 not Blue 3 should have attempted the 2 free throws. The Referee informs the coaches that the successful free throw is cancelled and now Blue 7 shoots the single free throw for the technical foul to be followed by possession at mid court.

Outcome: Correct call by referees.

Tough Call 2 - Technical foul called for defensive flopping but offensive foul missed

During a Blue team offense, Blue 45 and Yellow 5 contest a high post situation. As Blue 45 backs down to the basket, defender Yellow 5 falls to the floor and is given a technical foul for flopping. Even with contact from Blue 45, defender Yellow 5 had an unstable position but exaggerates the reaction despite some holding of his shirt by Blue 45, missed by the Lead official who was late to his position.

Outcome: Correct call by referees for the defensive flopping, missed call for the offensive foul.

Tough Call 3 - Excellent verticality by defensive player and a high quality no call by the officials

Orange 23 intercepts a pass between White 42 and White 32 and fast breaks to the White team’s basket. As Orange 23 jumps to shoot, defender White 42 who had followed him, leaps high into the air using good verticality and blocks the shot. This was a high quality no call by the officials.

Outcome: Correct call by referees.

Tough Call 4 - Unsportsmanlike foul called for excessive contact on a player in act of shooting

During a White team offense, White 32 penetrates the baseline and passes off to White 41 who is running from the weak-side and collects the ball as he jumps to shoot when defender Orange 21 initially contacts the ball but then hits the neck and shoulder of airborne White 41. The officials call an unsportsmanlike foul for excessive contact.

Outcome: Correct call by referees.

Tough Call 5 - Dangerous play by defender pushing an airborne player in the back

During a fast break by Green 21 being followed by defender White 23 with Green 14 just behind the play, he passes the ball to Green 14 who is pushed in the back as he leaves the floor by White 1. The officials call an unsportsmanlike foul for excessive/dangerous play.

Outcome: Correct call by referees.