GoKawiilNBA tests Bluetooth-enabled basketballs and referee wearables in preseason games
The NBA announced it will trial a Wilson-made smart basketball containing a Bluetooth sensor during select preseason exhibition games, collecting data intended for potential future use in officiating. Officials in some games will also wear wrist devices to communicate with the replay center for reviews, scoring changes and clock issues, after the wearables were piloted successfully during summer league.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The trials suggest the NBA is laying groundwork for tech-assisted officiating without yet committing to using it for actual calls, keeping this preseason phase strictly experimental. Faster, more reliable communication with replay centers could eventually streamline stoppages, though the league has confirmed neither technology will carry into the regular season.
- Smart basketballs with Bluetooth sensors will appear in select preseason games for data collection only
- Wrist wearables let officials communicate directly with the replay center during review situations
- Neither technology is approved for regular-season use at this time
Wilson NBA Basketball — Since the NBA's smart ball tech is built right into Wilson's official basketball, this is the closest you can get to the real on-court experience. Great for fans who want to shoot around with the same brand and feel used by the pros, smart sensors or not.
See Wilson NBA Basketball on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: fastcompany.com, 2026-10-06
Published there as: “NBA announces it’s using smart basketballs and wearable tech in preseason games”
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