How much are referees paid for each 2024 NBA Finals game?

Referees play a crucial role in sports, ensuring that the games are conducted fairly and according to the rules. Their decisions directly impact the flow and outcome of the match, maintaining the integrity of the sport.

Compensation: How Much Do Referees Earn?

Rookies start at $600 per game, potentially earning up to $250,000 annually based on the number of games officiated. Tenured officials: Receive a significant pay increase, earning $3,000 to $7,000 per game, with the possibility of exceeding $550,000 per year. Playoffs: Referees receive additional compensation during the playoffs. For instance, they get $9,000 during the first round and approximately $29,000for the semifinals, conference finals, and NBA Finals.

Their decisions impact outcomes that’s why the NBA pays referees well to prevent betting scandals like the infamous Tim Donaghy case. In July 2007, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) revealed that Donaghy, during the 2005–06 and 2006–07 NBA seasons, bet on games he officiated.

On August 15, 2007, Donaghy pleaded guilty to two federal charges related to the investigation. He was sentenced to 15 months in prison and three years of supervised release.

Scott Foster stands out among referees chosen for the 2024 NBA Finals. With 24games officiated, his experience and consistency make him crucial. Foster has officiated 1,617 regular-season games and 226 playoff games across 28 seasons. In 2019, James Harden called him “rude and arrogant,” while Chris Paul criticized his favoritism