Hostile Act Review Trigger Added

The Rule Change

The NBA empowered officials to use instant replay to review plays involving potential hostile acts — defined as physical contact that is excessive, unnecessary, or flagrant — even if the act was not called during live play. Officials could upgrade fouls or assess technicals and flagrants after review.

Statistical Impact

Enhanced player safety by allowing officials to penalize dangerous actions they missed in real time. The rule reduced the incentive for retaliatory or reckless plays, since players knew that even uncalled acts could be reviewed and punished. It was part of the league's ongoing effort to protect player health.

3-Year Average: Before vs. After