Brisbane Bullets coach Will Weaver has once again raised concerns about the safety risks posed by slippery court decals used in National Basketball League (NBL) games. Weaver’s comments come after several players slipped during the Bullets’ overtime loss to Tasmania on Saturday night, reigniting a debate he first brought up in 2019 while coaching the Sydney Kings.

Weaver expressed his disappointment following the recent incidents, highlighting the potential danger to player health and safety. During the game, he discussed the issue with referees at three-quarter time and emphasized the need for changes to prevent injuries. He pointed to the repeated slips occurring near court decals, particularly in high-traffic areas such as under the basket, where a slight presence of moisture can create hazardous conditions.

The NBL has acknowledged the concerns and is reportedly exploring alternatives to physical floor stickers. One option under consideration is the adoption of virtual graphics technology, which would digitally overlay on-court branding during broadcasts, eliminating the need for adhesive decals that may cause slips. This approach has been utilized by other major sporting leagues both in Australia and internationally.

However, transitioning away from physical decals poses challenges, as many NBL venues host multiple sports, including netball. The need to frequently change advertising depending on the event makes painted-on signage impractical. The league’s current floor graphics comply with FIBA guidelines, but adjustments would be necessary to integrate virtual advertising effectively, particularly in regard to commercial agreements.

Weaver's warning from 2019 underscored his fears that persistent slipperiness on court decals could lead to severe injuries, potentially ending players’ careers prematurely. His repeated calls reflect ongoing concerns about balancing commercial branding needs with athlete safety.

While the NBL remains open to technological solutions, stakeholders must work through both practical and commercial considerations before implementing changes. For now, the issue of slippery court decals remains a matter of active discussion in professional Australian basketball circles, with player safety continuing to be a key priority.