New Basketball Introduced (Briefly)
The Rule Change
The NBA switched to a synthetic Spalding basketball for the 2006-07 season without consulting players. The new ball was widely criticized for its different grip, bounce, and tendency to cut players' hands.
Statistical Impact
The ball was reverted to leather after just two months. Shooting percentages were noticeably lower during the synthetic ball period. The episode became a cautionary tale about unilateral equipment changes.
3-Year Average: Before vs. After
| Stat | Before | After | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| PPG | 95.2 | 98.5 | +3.3 |
| Pace | 90.7 | 91.6 | +0.9 |
| 3PA | 15.1 | 17.0 | +1.9 |
| FTA | 24.9 | 25.8 | +0.9 |
| FG% | 44.3 | 45.6 | +1.3 |
Zero Tolerance for Complaining to Referees
The Rule Change
The NBA instituted a 'respect for the game' initiative with stricter technical foul enforcement for players and coaches who excessively complained to referees. Overt displays of dissent — demonstrative gestures, running at officials, prolonged arguing — would be penalized more quickly.
Statistical Impact
Technical fouls spiked during the first season of enforcement as players adjusted. The rule cleaned up on-court behavior and reduced the hostile atmosphere that had characterized referee-player interactions. It also reduced game stoppages caused by prolonged arguments, modestly improving pace.
3-Year Average: Before vs. After
| Stat | Before | After | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| PPG | 95.2 | 98.5 | +3.3 |
| Pace | 90.7 | 91.6 | +0.9 |
| 3PA | 15.1 | 17.0 | +1.9 |
| FTA | 24.9 | 25.8 | +0.9 |
| FG% | 44.3 | 45.6 | +1.3 |