How to Become a Basketball Referee

1. Join the NASO—even if you’re only officiating youth games

One of the smartest moves you can make early on is joining the National Association of Sports Officials (NASO). It provides valuable benefits, including liability insurance, rulebook access, training resources, and a supportive network of fellow referees. Even if you’re just working local youth games, being part of a national body gives you credibility and protection.

In addition, you’ll want to connect with a local referees association, which will help you find games, receive evaluations, and grow your skills. The easiest way to find one? Attend a varsity game and talk to the officials—they’re often happy to help newcomers get started.

2. Study the rules—both official and league-specific

It’s not enough to just know the general rules of basketball. Every league has its own unique adaptations, especially at the youth level. For example, some leagues don’t allow double-teaming, full-court presses, or enforce time-based violations like the 5-second inbound rule.

Before you ever blow your whistle in a live game, familiarize yourself with the league’s custom rules. Print them, study them, and run through potential game scenarios so you’re not caught off guard during crucial moments.

3. Prepare mentally for upset coaches

Coaches are passionate—and sometimes that passion spills over into frustration. I once had a coach blow up with just seconds left in a one-point game. I issued a bench warning, and the coach reacted by throwing a clipboard and yelling profanity, which earned a technical foul and gave the opposing team free throws to seal the game.

Remain calm and professional, no matter how emotional the coach gets. Your job is to keep the game fair, safe, and in control—not to argue or take things personally.

4. Parents can be tougher than coaches—stay alert

Referees are often right next to the stands, and unfortunately, some parents don’t know where the line is. In one high school game, I called an obvious foul on a player, and the parent stormed out of the bleachers and tried to confront me physically.

Thanks to the police presence at the venue, the situation was handled quickly. But it’s a reminder that you always need to be aware of your surroundings, especially during high-stakes or emotional games. If a situation escalates, stop the game and involve security or game staff immediately.

5. Accept that you’ll make mistakes—and learn from them

Even the most experienced officials occasionally get calls wrong. Once, I called a foul because I was sure I heard a slap on the arm. But video replay showed the defender had cleanly hit the ball. That mistake changed the game’s outcome.

As a referee, you won’t be perfect—and that’s okay. The important part is how you handle it. If you know you made a mistake, own it, learn from it, and improve for the next game.

6. Referee pay improves as you advance

Refereeing starts off modestly, but the pay can increase significantly with experience and higher-level games.

• Youth leagues (YMCA/Rec): ~$10/game
• High school: $75–$100 per night (JV + Varsity combo games)
• College: $500–$1,000 per game
• Top-tier college/major conferences: Up to $3,000 per game
• NBA referees: $150,000–$550,000+ per year

You’ll also get compensated for travel in many cases, especially at the high school and college levels. If you stick with it and hone your craft, officiating can become a serious income source or even a full-time job.

7. Most leagues require officiating exams and certifications

Before officiating, you’ll usually need to pass a test to prove your understanding of basketball rules and referee mechanics. This varies by level:

• YMCA/Rec Leagues: May simply observe you in early games
• High School: Written exams through local referee associations
• College: Independent certification and continuing education required

Even after certification, ongoing training and testing may be needed to keep your eligibility. Treat officiating like a profession, and you’ll continue to grow and get better.

8. The more games you work, the better you’ll get

Your first few games might feel awkward—and that’s normal. My first foul call looked more like a dance move than an actual signal. Over time, though, I gained confidence and fluency in my movements and decisions.

Refereeing is a skill that improves with repetition. Work as many games as possible. Even volunteering for rec league games or 3-on-3 tournaments can help you build rhythm and develop court awareness.

The most successful referees are the ones who say “yes” to every opportunity.

9. Invest in comfortable gear and the right equipment

Wearing cheap or uncomfortable referee gear is a quick way to distract yourself and reduce your performance. I used to wear a basic ref shirt that soaked in sweat and irritated my skin. Once I upgraded to a lightweight, moisture-wicking shirt, my comfort and focus improved dramatically.

Here’s what you should always bring:

• Two whistles (one as a backup)
• Shirt clip-style whistle (not a lanyard)
• Referee notepad for fouls and timeouts
• Ball pressure gauge to ensure regulation equipment
• Black athletic shoes and pants for comfort and professionalism

Investing in proper equipment will help you perform at your best, especially during longer or high-pressure games.