NBA Trials Smart Basketball Tech and Wrist Wearables in Preseason Games

The NBA is testing smart basketballs and wrist wearables in preseason games, aiming to enhance real-time officiating and communication.

Editorial Desk

October 6, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — New York, United States — The NBA has announced plans to test two new technologies during the preseason: a smart basketball equipped with Bluetooth sensors and wrist-worn devices for officials.

The smart basketball, developed by Wilson, will collect data for research purposes and not influence calls during games. Officials in select matches will also use wearable technology to communicate with the replay center for situations like replay reviews and clock malfunctions.

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The wearable tech had a successful pilot during the summer league and is set to be used in exhibition games but will not extend into the regular season.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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