Adam Silver, the NBA Commissioner, has hinted at discussions within the league about potentially altering the current game format. Currently, NBA games are played over 48 minutes, a tradition that has remained unchanged throughout the league's 78-year history. Despite this longstanding format, Silver has expressed interest in shortening games to 40 minutes by reducing each quarter from 12 to 10 minutes.
NBA games this season have averaged a runtime of 2 hours and 16 minutes, a duration consistent with the past 15 seasons. Silver contemplates shortening the game time, aligning it more closely with college and Olympic basketball, both of which feature 40-minute games.
"I think of a television program being two hours, Olympic basketball being two hours. And college basketball, of course, is 40 minutes," – Adam Silver
This potential change has sparked discussions regarding its impact on the league. Critics, such as Tom Thibodeau, argue that reducing game length could hinder players' chances to break leaguewide records. Thibodeau, known for his traditional views, expressed concerns over such changes.
"But I hope we don't go to 10-minute quarters. I hope we don't put in a 4-point line. I hope we don't become Barnum & Bailey, or do whatever we have to do to keep viewership. Because there's a greatness and a history to this game, and a purity to this game that I hope we can find a way to stay true to." – Adam Silver
The NBA stands alone among global basketball leagues by maintaining a 48-minute game structure. Silver suggests this unique format could influence the league's integration with global basketball initiatives.
"As we get more involved in global basketball, the NBA is the only league that plays 48 minutes. And I would be — I am — a fan of four 10-minute quarters," – Adam Silver
Furthermore, reducing game duration could have financial implications, affecting player salaries, especially for those in more marginal roles. Players like Mikal Bridges, who leads the NBA in playing time, might also see changes in their roles and contributions on the court.
In addition to altering game length, discussions have also touched upon awarding two free throws for fouls made on 3-point attempts. Although these ideas are still in discussion stages, they reflect the league's commitment to engaging its audience.
"I give the league credit, because they're always trying to find ways to keep the fans engaged," – Adam Silver
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