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How NBA Referees Are Adjusting to Life Inside the NBA Bubble

ORLANDO – Scott Brooks will admit: He’s said a few things to referees he regrets. Heat of the moment, a call doesn’t go his way, the Wizards coach has blurted out reactions he wishes he could take back. Fortunately, most don’t catch a referees ear. A roaring crowd offers a layer of protection. When the NBA resumes its season on July 30, that protection will be taken away.

“That is going to be interesting,” Brooks told SI. “That will be interesting for everybody. They’re going to hear everything—and you don’t want that.”

As the NBA prepares to return, how games will be refereed moves to the forefront.