Overheard at All Star: The Era of 'Posting from the Post' May Take Center Court Next Season

Rumors are flying this weekend that a new level of social media engagement with fans could be on the horizon as the league considers a new "posting from the post" rule. Sports Dijest managed to obtain a copy of the rules draft:

Rule 7.12.5: Posting from the Post

1. Posting Privileges: Front line players are hereby granted the privilege to engage in social media activity, including but not limited to taking selfies and updating social media profiles, during offensive possessions while positioned in the post area.

2. Conditions of Posting: Players may only engage in social media activity while actively backing into the paint during an offensive possession. Any social media activity conducted outside of this specific context is strictly prohibited.

3. Responsibility Clause: Players who choose to exercise their posting privileges are responsible for maintaining focus and performance on the court. Failure to fulfill defensive or offensive responsibilities as a result of engaging in social media activity may result in disciplinary action.

4. Opposing Player Likenesses: Players may include images or references to opposing players in their posts, provided mutual consent is obtained from both parties' agents prior to posting. Failure to secure consent may result in fines or other penalties.

5. Sharing Quota: In order to maintain posting privileges, players must ensure that each post garners a minimum of one million shares or interactions within 24 hours of publication. Failure to meet this quota may result in the temporary suspension of posting privileges or other sanctions as determined by league officials.

Despite the potential for distractions, the league has made it clear that gameplay will continue to be governed by traditional rules, including the shot clock. However, in a nod to the realities of multitasking in the age of social media, players who are busy posting and subsequently turn the ball over or fail to collect a rebound will not be penalized with negative statistics on their record—a controversial provision that has raised eyebrows among analysts and statisticians.

While some critics have decried the move as a gimmick that undermines the integrity of the game, fans have embraced the opportunity to connect with their favorite players on a whole new level. From courtside selfies to behind-the-scenes glimpses of pre-game rituals, the "posting from the post" concept opens up a window into the lives of athletes like never before, fostering a sense of intimacy and accessibility and additional levels of income to players that was previously unimaginable.