How to Become an NBA Official

Becoming a referee in the NBA is a lengthy process. Applicants are expected to have at least ten to fourteen years experience along with a host or references identifying them as solid candidates. It's a lengthy process but worthwhile for those who make it a dream. If you're set on becoming an official in the NBA, follow these steps to get there.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Check for officials' groups in your area that meet regularly to discuss philosophies and rules. Network with new officials as well as seasoned ones. Attend games and chat with the officials afterward. Ask about their professional affiliations and contact information about becoming a memeber.
2. Create a foundation and attend meetings of the officials' association. Ask lots of good questions about mechanics and positioning, as well as the rules. Take advantage of volunteer opportunities.
3. Stay in good physical condition. Expect the physical demands to increase as the competitive levels of the game rises. Be prepared to move constantly and to run short distances throughout the course of the game.
4. Expect to spend upwards of $200 for the initial uniform consisting of beltless black slacks, a black and white striped V-neck shirt, black socks, black athletic shoes, and a whistle and lanyard.
5. Start officiating at the youth league, move up to high school leagues and then to college. Join at least one of the three national collegiate governing bodies. Officiate as many games as possible.
6. Acquire sufficient collegiate experience to become a serious candidate as an NBA official. Submit a formal application to the NBA along with a detailed resume and references. Pass the NBA screening process and get invited to a summer identification camp after the NBA reviews resumes and contacts all references.
7. Attend a summer identification camp at the invitation of the NBA. Progress from summer identification camps and advance to the development program. Participate by invitation in off-season and in-season programs until becoming a full-fledged NBA official.

Tips & Warnings

• An NBA referee must have at least seven years experience before being eligible to officiate a playoff game, and at least fourteen years experience to referee an NBA Finals game.
• There are 60 referees in the NBA.

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