NBA Implements Stricter Guidelines for Technical Fouls

Expect more techs to be called this season.

During the referee's annual meeting which was held in New Jersey, the league announced the guidelines for technical fouls will expand to include "overt" player reactions to referee calls.

The league has instructed the referees to hand out a tech for the following:

• Players making aggressive gestures, such as air punches and first pumps anywhere on the court.

• Demonstrative disagreement. This happens when a player incredulously raises his hands, or smacks his own arm while demonstrating how he was called for a foul.

• Running directly towards an official to complain about a call.

• Excessive inquiries about a call, EVEN in a civilized tone.

In an additional note, referees have been instructed to consider handing out technical fouls on players who use body language to question or demonstrate displeasure. A simple "Come on!" phrase can also result to a technical foul as well.

Officials can also consider technicals to players who "take the long path to the official", walking across the court to complain and state their case.

Is it a coincidence that the NBA implemented these after Sheed retired?

No one knows.