#26: The Officials Lockout
Replacement refs means war on the floor?
The NBA and the NBRA (referee’s union) is at an impasse in contract negotiations. Beginning September 18, the league has decided to lockout the officials and begin the preseason, and most likely the regular season, with replacement referees.
In this episode, the Thunder Troika discuss the situation, explain what really happened during the last lockout in 1995, and pose a couple of questions regarding the lockout’s impact on the Thunder.
Here is Julie Davis’s letter to the NBRA that Brent mentions in the show. It is a worthwhile read for all fans of the game.
I was worried about the same thing guys. I was concerned that replacement officials would lead to the allowance of more physical play. Since the Thunder aren’t the most physical team then I was concerned. I feel much better knowing that the majority of the officials will be from the WNBA, D league, and NCAA. Good podcast.
I can’t find any news on this. Do you know if the lockout is still on and if it is what stage of negotiations are at?
I’ve heard that they reached an agreement and will be back on the court soon, possibly for the first games.