When the NBA started its Last 2 Minute Review program in February 2015, the goal was to increase transparency in officiating. The reports tell you what calls the referees missed in the last two minutes of a close game. In essence, they retroactively assess what should’ve happened without actually righting any wrongs.
Here are some questions the league should consider before the start the 2016/17 season regarding the practice:
- Why not let the referees talk to the media after the game? If the goal is transparency, why not let the refs speak up for themselves over controversial calls.
- Would you consider retroactively changing the outcome of a game decided at the buzzer?
- How is this improving the quality of the NBA product?
- Can the refs appeal any call deemed incorrect after the reports are handed out?
- Who are the individuals reviewing and editing report ? Do they have extensive officiating experience, like Steve Javey?