The NBA has been dealing with a number of negative narratives surrounding their television appeal and overall growth. Commissioner Adam Silver gave detractors more ammunition earlier this week when he mentioned the possibility of a dramatic rule change would surely divide fans.
During an appearance on "The Dan Patrick Show," Silver suggested that the NBA could explore shortening games by moving to 10-minute quarters.
"I am a fan of four 10-minute quarters. I'm not sure that many others are," Silver said. "It's such a dramatic change to the game. I think something like that would have to be talked more about over time."
Silver added that the potential tweak would align the NBA with international basketball standards and help make the league's television product more consumer-friendly.
"Putting aside what it would mean for records and things like that, I think that a two-hour format for a game is more consistent with modern television habits," Silver said. He added later, "I don't think most fans would be disappointed if it was a two-hour presentation."
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver floats the idea of changing the game from 12 to 10 minute quarters #NBA pic.twitter.com/ymajYHTgi4
— Dan Patrick Show (@dpshow) January 29, 2025
NBA Rumors: Adam Silver risks ruining the NBA with 10-minute quarters
Silver's latest idea comes amid what has been an interesting time for the NBA. There have already been whispers about a potential 3-point rule change, and critics have been claiming the league must do something noteworthy in order to combat poor television ratings.
But, it is fair to wonder if shortening quarters would truly fix the NBA's predicament. While attempting to match international norms and creating a quicker television product may help, these tweaks do not actually provide fans with more of what they love. As a result, the possible change may be a risky strategy.
Typically, fans want to see more of their favorite stars, not less. Load management has already resulted in players like Joel Embiid competing in fewer games. Shortening games does not fix the root of the issue and would grant fans less time with players (when they do play).
Further, this course of action would make certain statistical records virtually unbreakable. It was also may the already impossible task of comparing eras more challenging. While these things do not necessarily impact games or the perception of the league, they are still a critical topic of conversation that keeps fans consistently engaged.
It may be wiser for the league to shorten the season instead of the games themselves. Players will still miss time for a variety of reasons. But there would be more of an incentive to stay on the court, given each game will mean more as it pertains to playoff seeding and annual awards.
The NBA may not switch any rules or regulations in the immediate future, but Silver's latest comments make it clear that the league is searching for ways to silence the cynics.