How to Become an NBA Referee

Every profession has its elite levels. For basketball refereeing, that is becoming an NBA referee. NBA referees are entrusted with overseeing a game where the most elite athletes on earth are paid tens of millions of dollars to compete at the top of their sport. Being an NBA ref is less of a profession and more of a calling.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Officiate as many basketball games as possible. Whether this is at the YMCA level, High School level or College level, the more experience the better. Refereeing at the NBA level is the absolute pinnacle of the profession and they take only the best of the best. Therefore, the more games officiated the more a person improves at the craft of refereeing.
2. Attend as many basketball refereeing camps as possible. Not only do the camps improve the skills necessary to referee NBA games, but it also is a great opportunity to network with other officials. If time or money is limited choose the referee camps that are run by current or former NBA referees. These camps offer the best networking opportunities.
3. Join a referee association. This is another great way to network and get in contact with other referees. Depending on experience level, some of the associations may not be open to any referee.
4. Attain a peak level of physical condition. NBA basketball referees need to keep up with some of the most elite athlete on this planet. The most effective way to stay in refereeing shape is simple. Ref as many games as possible. In addition, playing basketball can emulate the stopping and starting exercise necessary to be an NBA referee.
5. Possess the correct personality to be an NBA referee. The NBA referee has to understand that emotions can run high with so much at stake during an NBA game. The NBA referee has to maintain order while not letting the action get out of control. An NBA referee does a good job when no one realizes they are on the court. An NBA ref cannot make the game about them and has to put his ego aside.
6. Contact the NBA minor leagues. The NBA often chooses from the NBA developmental leagues to promote its players and referees. If the league has no openings call local colleges for referee employment opportunities. Sometimes the NBA selects referees from the college level to be NBA refs.
7. Do not gamble or wager. Again, with all the bad press from the refereeing gambling scandal, the NBA referee cannot gamble on anything. An NBA referee should not even go to casinos much less place bets while there. This will be a huge point of emphasis for NBA referee employment in the future.