I am a certified HS official, obviously much different then the NBA, but for me, it's completely inappropriate for me to talk to the players and it's inappropriate for them to have conversations with me.
This is a fantastic point, MBz. The sad part is that the league sees all of these problems and addresses them with symbolism over substance.
Remember when the directive came forth that flopping was going to be addressed?? LOL
Remember when the directive came forth that players arguing calls was going to be addressed?? LOL
The league sees the real problems and addresses them with lip service.
The fans see the profane interractions on the court and follow the example of the players and coaches. Heckling the same stuff they're hearing...Occasionally, a player....Both hardened and arrogant from engaging in the language constantly, responds to a fan.
It starts from the top. If Stern and the NBA compromises their integrity with this obvious directive to officiate to keep stars on the court at any cost, frustration will continue to trickle down. The two calls I saw last night were more appropriate in a Globetrotters-Generals game. By not addressing player/coach/official interractions, Stern is essentially putting his officials in the line of fire of the players, coaches, and fans. The fans see the interraction and follow suit. Stern is essentially sanctioning what Noah and Bryant said by not controlling the discourse on the court...And then acting exhasperated when it happens.