ABA League implements AI to analyze referee performance

The ABA League referee department is implementing artificial intelligence to analyze officiating performance and its correlation with overall match statistics. This technology aims to establish quality standards for refereeing through a comprehensive review of statistics, errors made in the final two minutes of games, and key situational themes.

According to an official statement, the system will not be used for individual evaluations or disciplinary measures. Instead, the goal is to provide clubs and referees with a professional overview of each round. Teams will receive reports on key decisions within 24 hours of a match, while clubs will receive a complete report for all matches at the end of each round, accompanied by video footage and expert explanations.

Key areas of focus include contact criteria, defensive positioning, shot classification, block legality, and contact during rebounds or back-to-the-basket play. In the second round of the current season, the system analyzed 144 situations. Referees are also utilizing a new e-learning platform for high-quality video analysis, marking a first in the world of basketball.