Does the referee have authority to control players' equipment for safety and clarity?

The role of the referee extends beyond enforcing rules and making calls during the game; it also encompasses ensuring a safe and fair playing environment. This includes the authority to control players' equipment, particularly when it could lead to confusion or interfere with the integrity of the game.

The referee can prohibit equipment that is deemed confusing, which may include items that could distract players, create unfair advantages, or obstruct the clear understanding of gameplay. This aspect of regulation is critical, as it helps maintain the flow of the game and ensures that player interactions are straightforward.

While safety is a significant concern, the focus here is also on clarity and fairness in play. This authority allows referees to intervene when they believe that a player’s equipment might undermine these fundamental aspects of the game. Thus, the answer accurately reflects the referee's responsibility to uphold both the safety and the clarity of basketball gameplay.