Basketball · International

NBL retains coach microphones under existing broadcast protocols

The league defended courtside audio access following debate around the Sydney–Phoenix exchange.

Source 14 Feb 2026 Oceania Australia
NBL retains coach microphones under existing broadcast protocols — report card; no event photograph has been cleared for this report
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The NBL said it would retain coach microphones after debate surrounding Brian Goorjian’s fined exchange with Owen Foxwell. Media chief Heath O’Loughlin described access to coach, referee and player audio as an established part of the league’s broadcast offering.

The league clarified that the Goorjian exchange had been captured by a referee microphone rather than the coach’s device. O’Loughlin said strict protocols govern when audio is used, while explaining the value of huddles, speeches and other courtside moments for viewers.

Coach microphones are used during selected timeouts, with coaches aware that the material may be broadcast. Audio is withheld in the final two minutes of games. The February statement maintained that framework rather than announcing changes in response to criticism.

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