## 1 Introduction  
The quantification of workload in basketball has become a topic of increasing interest in both sports research and professional practice [1]. As basketball has evolved into a more competitive and physically demanding sport, the necessity of understanding how athletes manage both the physical and psychological load of the game has become paramount [2,3]. While traditional approaches have primarily focused on player performance, referees play a crucial role in the conduct of matches and the integrity of the sport [4]. This quantification process defines basketball as a dynamic sport requiring a high level of concentration, rapid decision-making, and optimal physical conditioning [5]. Referes, although often overlooked, are fundamental to the game's development, as they are responsible for ensuring compliance with regulations and maintaining order on the court [6]. Their performance can significantly influence the outcome of a match, as well as the perception of the game by players and spectators [7]. Consequently, it is essential that we understand how to manage the workload that referees endure during matches [8]. This quantification can be carried out through various methods, providing valuable insights into the individualization of training. While some studies have evaluated officiating performance using heart rate monitoring [9], in recent years, the use of microtechnology and inertial devices has gained prominence. In this regard, [PERSON] et al. [10] demonstrated that an international-level referee officiating a youth competition covered more than 4000 m with an average intensity of 61% of their maximum heart rate when matches were officiated under the 3-referee technique (3 Refs). Similarly, [PERSON] et al. [11], analyzing top-tier Spanish referees, found comparable distances being covered by referees in professional teams competing in the highest national league. However, the average heart rate intensity was 66%. Additionally, there were differences in maximum speed recorded (18 km/h vs. 21 km/h) between both studies. These demands are influenced by the match level, officiating experience, and sex of the competition [11]. Furthermore, contextual competition variables affect all participants, including players and referees [12]. In sports, workload refers to the amount of physical and mental stress that an athlete experiences during training or competition [13]. In the case of referees, competitive demands may be influenced by various psychological factors [12], decision-making processes [14], or error management [15]. The accurate assessment of these loads enables referees and their coaches to design more effective training programs tailored to the specific demands of officiating. Understanding the workload experienced by referees provides multiple benefits. Firstly, it helps identify areas for improvement in their physical and mental preparation, contributing to more efficient and effective officiating [16]. Secondly, proper workload management can help prevent injuries, which are common in refereeing due to the physically demanding nature of the role [17]. Lastly, a deeper understanding of workload can aid in match and competition planning, ensuring that referees are adequately prepared for the specific challenges of each game [18]. By gaining a more comprehensive understanding of the demands that referees face, the officiating quality can be improved, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of the game. However, after reviewing the existing literature, we believe that while some contributions to sports science have positioned referees as the focal point of research, no studies have evaluated the same group of referees during a single championship under different officiating formats (in terms of the refereeing technique and the sex of the players). In basketball officiating, the choice between a 2-referee (2 Refs) and a 3 Refs technique significantly impacts game management, decision-making accuracy, and physical demands on officials.