EuroLeague Considers Centralized Replay Center to Speed Up Games

The EuroLeague is exploring a new system to reduce game times, which have been lengthening due to frequent video monitor reviews by referees. The first derby of the season between Maccabi and Hapoel Tel Aviv, won by Maccabi 80-73, lasted approximately two and a half hours, largely due to numerous officiating decisions and monitor reviews that repeatedly halted play. A notable moment in the game involved player Yam Madar playing through a broken nose.

Officiating analyst and former referee Tod Worneck proposed a solution adopted by the NBA: establishing a centralized "replay center" for the EuroLeague. Under this model, instead of referees on the court reviewing plays multiple times, they would communicate with senior referees located at a central hub. These senior officials would analyze the plays from various angles, aiming to reduce errors and the pressure associated with on-court reviews.

Worneck stated that the current system "is broken" and leads to too many mistakes, suggesting the process should be moved away from the immediate pressure of the crowd and the need for speed. The referees in the Maccabi-Hapoel game were Carlos Peruga (chief referee), Ilija Belosevic, and Jordi Aliaga, all considered experienced officials. Belosevic and Peruga have officiated in the Final Four in recent years. Aliaga was involved in a controversial call during a game between Crvena Zvezda and Zalgiris that led to objects being thrown onto the court.