Do NBA referees fix games?

KARTHIC SUBRAMANIAN

Tim Donaghy, a former NBA referee, received a 15-month jail term for betting on matches he officiated and disclosing private information to gambling associates.

Although Tim Donaghy was the only convicted referee, the NBA's image suffered. An inquiry revealed that he leaked game details to his accomplices.

NBA's measures to deter referee gambling include stringent background checks and a code of conduct that prohibits betting and contact with gamblers.

Despite attempts to rebuild trust in NBA referees, skeptics remain as subjective rulings and the rapid pace of games could inadvertently impact results.

Most NBA referees are impartial and hardworking. The league evaluates them rigorously and weeds out those who don't meet their high standards.

The 2007 scandal sparked worries about NBA referees' credibility, though game-fixing is not prevalent. The league has taken precautions and upholds stringent referee standards.