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 last week's "tough calls":

Tough Call 1: medi Bayreuth v MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg - Last shot IRS decision

Black 1 takes a shot in the corner at the end of the 3rd quarter, approximately at the same time as the game clock indicates 0.0 to the end of the quarter. The referees' initial decision was to count the basket, but after the Instant Replay System review, they changed the initial decision and the basket was cancelled.

Outcome: Correct decision by referees

Tough Call 2: SIG Strasbourg v AEK - Illegal contact

At the end of the shot clock period, Black 1 shoots in the corner and a foul is called on Grey 3. In the replay, it is clearly shown that Grey 3’s left hand hits the elbow of the shooter creating an illegal contact and a foul should be called and 3 free throws awarded to Black 1.

Outcome: Correct decision by referees

Tough Call 3: SIG Strasbourg v AEK - Unsportsmanlike foul

Black 32 drives to the basket and misses the shot for the field goal. In the next transition, Black 32 holds Grey 15 at the waist, creating an illegal contact that should be called. Black 32’s action is not a legitimate attempt to play the ball (C1) and an Unsportsmanlike Foul should be assessed to Black 32.

Outcome: Correct decision by referees

Tough Call 4: UCAM Murcia v Pinar Karsiyaka - Defensive block foul

White 0 receives the pass in the transition and is fouled by Red 21 due to his illegal contact with the right knee, waist and hand. A blocking foul should be called and 2 free throws awarded to White 0 as he gathers the ball at the same time as the foul is taking place (Referee is clearly late in transition).

Outcome: Correct decision by referees for the foul / Incorrect decision by referees for not awarding 2 free throws

Tough Call 5: UCAM Murcia v Pinar Karsiyaka - Unsportsmanlike foul

Red 0 receives a pass in the low post. White 7 comes to help defense and creates an illegal contact on Red 0. The nature of the action is clearly an excessive hard contact (C2) and an Unsportsmanlike Foul should be called.

Outcome: Correct decision by referees