Referee
THE ROLE OF THE BASKETBALL REFEREE
For a basketball game to take place, it requires either two or three referees on the court. These referees are responsible for ensuring the game runs smoothly and fairly by enforcing the rules. They blow their whistles to stop play whenever there is a rule infringement, such as a foul or a violation. Referees make crucial decisions, including determining when a player commits a foul, when a basket is scored, and much more.
In addition to their on-court duties, referees collaborate with table officials and statisticians to ensure the game’s fairness and accuracy.
Refereeing not only demands physical fitness but is also a fantastic way to stay active, meet new people, and remain involved in the sport you love!
Basketball Wales support, educates and develops referees at all levels of the refereeing pathway – whether just starting out or wanting to progress to referee at national and international level.
Basketball Wales Red Whistle Campaign
Basketball Wales operates the Red Whistle initiative to safeguard and support new Level 1 under-18 and senior referee beginners, nationwide.
This campaign seeks to build a culture of respect, understanding, and encouragement for the next generation of officials — starting from their very first game.
The following guidance has been put in place by Basketball Wales for clubs and referees to support our red whistle colleagues.
- Only one Red Whistle referee per game (Exceptions U10/12 development leagues).
- U18 red whistle referees restricted to U14 games.
- Adult red whistle referees allowed to officiate Div 2/3 men’s/women’s local league matches as long as accompanied by Level 2 or above.
- Level 2 and above co-officials to be encouraged to support red whistle referees and give them feedback between quarters and a debrief at the end of the game.
Basketball Wales Referee Fees
The BW Officiating Committee has confirmed what licensed Basketball Wales officials should be charging from 1st September 2026 regarding their fees and expenses.
Below is a breakdown of the new structure and approach. All licensed Basketball Wales referees are encouraged to adopt this payment structure.
It is based on local leagues across the UK and aimed at bringing us in line with our home nations colleagues and encourages a development pathway for our referees.
FIBA Referee – £23
Level 4 Referee – £22
Level 3 Referee – £20
Level 2 Referee – £18
Level 1 Referee – £16
BWNL Referee – £30
Junior Games – £15
1.5 times standard fee for 1PO in exceptional circumstances.
Travel expenses £0.40 per mile
Become a Basketball Wales Referee
Basketball Wales offers officiating courses at every level of our development pathway, from the introductory Level 1 to our highest domestic qualification, the Level 4.
Whether you’re starting your journey as an official or looking to upskill your current qualification, our courses are designed to help you officiate games at higher standards within Wales and across Great Britain.
Take the next step in your officiating career today and be part of the growth of basketball!
If you need any help or support please email: selaw.llabteksab@slaiciffo
Level 1 Referee
Introductory referee course aimed at the beginner who wants to start their journey into basketball refereeing. Great for young players, coaches, teachers and parents.
Level 2 Referee
Designed for referees who have successfully completed their Level 1 qualification, this course provides a deeper understanding of referee mechanics and the rules of the game.
Level 3 Referee
Aimed at those referees who want to progress from local/regional leagues to Basketball Wales National League and English National League and GB Four Nations matches.
Level 4 Referee
This is the highest domestic refereeing award in Wales allowing you to referee at all levels of the game in a senior Crew Chief capacity.
3X3 Referee
3X3 is and exciting new format of the game which is nor recognised an olympic and commonwealth sport. Learn the rules and mechanics of 3×3 today
