EKATERINBURG (EuroLeague Women Final Four) – On the eve of the EuroLeague Women Final Four in Ekaterinburg, referees were already the topic of discussion, but it was all in the name of progress.

In a move to create stronger transparency between teams and referees, the coaching staff of the participating teams at the EuroLeague Women Final Four were invited to an open discussion with the referee instructor for the tournament, Fernando Garzon Alonso.

The coaches were given the opportunity to voice any concerns they may have had regarding officiating throughout the season, leading to constructive discussions between Alonso and the respective coaching staff of the four teams.

It is the first time the pre-tournament meeting has been implemented in Europe, with all in attendance agreeing it is a step in the right direction.

“I think this is progress and long overdue,” commented UMMC Ekaterinburg head coach Olaf Lange.

“I think it is important to develop the fairness of the competition and can only be viewed as a good thing.”

Garzon acknowledged that, given the sheer number of referees officiating in Europe and the subtle differences between different leagues, the use of video analysis is paramount to find consistency when officials from different countries meet at international level.

ZVVZ USK Prague head coach Natalija Hejkova was another to welcome the meeting, and the idea that the coaches are provided the same situational videos the referees are receiving, to strengthen the understanding between referees and teams. This is an idea that will be further explored by FIBA.

Following the successful meeting, further meetings will take place on the eve of all senior and youth European competitions this season.

FIBA