EuroLeague introduces AI-powered referee nomination system

28/09/202615:10

The new automated system applies 14 rules to form EuroLeague and EuroCup officiating crews, evaluating sporting criteria, scheduling, workload and integrity

Euroleague Basketball has introduced a new automated system to determine referee assignments for every round of the EuroLeague and BKT EuroCup.

The technology analyzes 14 rules grouped into three areas: sporting criteria, calendar and workload management, and integrity. Factors include referee hierarchy, assignment frequency, nationality mix, previous appointments and team repetition.

“Technology allows us to analyze a very large amount of information and apply a consistent set of criteria to every game,” Euroleague Basketball Officiating Director Daniel Hierrezuelo said. The system debuted in EuroLeague Round 1 and will be used in the EuroCup from its opening round.