"We want a free-flowing game": NBL responds to referee conjecture

The NBL has backed its referees amid recent commentary around the league.

In an interview with CODE Sports, the NBL's head of basketball operations Vince Crivelli explained there had been no tightening of rules since the start of the Hungry Jacks's NBL26 Season, despite talk around the increased whistles and technical fouls, including the recent ejections of Kings coach Brian Goorjian and Phoenix star John Brown III.

“Philosophically, nothing’s changed with what we’re trying to achieve,” Crivelli told CODE Sports.

“We want a free-flowing game that’s entertaining to watch, high scoring, where the stars of the game can shine. That’s our starting and ending premise.

“You’ll get some weeks where accuracy is super-high and then other weeks, where that accuracy is challenged."

Through the first six Rounds of the 2025-26 campaign, four players and coaches have been ejected.

But Crivelli says there hasn't been a directive for stricter officiating.

“So far this year, (referees boss) Scott (Butler) and I have not had a conversation to say, ‘turn it up on this’.”

Round 7 tips off with Wednesday's Ignite Cup fixture between Tasmania and Perth at MyState Bank Arena, tipping off at 7.30pm AEDT, live on ESPN.

Read the full story here >> NBL backs under-fire referees amid coach, fan criticism