The NBA tries to eliminate post-whistle complaining

Commissioner David Stern is working on tackling an issue which has been a nuisance for referees during many NBA basketball games. I can't say that this 'issue' will ever go away completely. Star players with big egos are known for arguing calls and jawing at officials. Why does the NBA think this will change? A zero tolerance policy has been issued to all active players during training camp. Well, the NBA will have to come up with a stronger enforcement than that to shut loud-mouth whiners up, especially those who think they're bigger than the game itself.

Personally, I think the policy could be a big advantage and disadvantage depending on how a game is officiated. For players who always complain (whether a call is legitimate and on the money or not) they should be fined at least 10% of their day's pay, which is hardly anything. On the opposing side, there are a couple blind and batty referees in the NBA. Those guys should be forced to perform drills on the court to test their overall vision. If they can't determine a call within 20 seconds 10-15 feet from the basket (or can't see an obvious foul) then they fail the preliminary test and should be fired.

Merely slapping players with small fees and warnings isn't acceptable anymore. Not only should they get tossed for constant bickering with refs (plus malicious intent to harm), but also suspended for a series of games and lose bonuses from their contract. Dramatic affirmative actions may be necessary to invoke corrective behavior. Just in the past year the NBA has required players to formal dress attire to all home and road games. A new basketball will be used in the coming season, which exhibits a different style than previous regulation basketballs. Good luck to the NBA on their 'no tolerance policy', we'll see how long it lasts (and before another pro baller gets arrested for drug possession and getting in a fight and firing a gun outside a strip club).