Question

List any five duties of a referee.

Answer 1

1. Before the match begins, the referee inspects all equipment, including checking that the ball is properly inflated. They also examine the playing surface and baskets to ensure there are no safety risks for players. Additionally, the referee reviews the official scorebook to confirm that team rosters are correctly entered to prevent scoring errors during the game.
2. The primary job of a basketball referee is to ensure fair play throughout the game. This includes calling violations like traveling, double dribbling, and three-second infractions, as well as identifying fouls and applying the correct penalties.
3. Basketball referees use hand signals to clearly communicate with players, coaches, the scorer’s table, and spectators about fouls and violations. An offensive foul is signaled by placing a hand on the back of the head while pointing toward the direction of the team that will get possession.
4. Officials are also in charge of fixing any mistakes during the game that can be corrected under the rules. For instance, if a team was supposed to get free throws like bonus shots but didn’t, the officials can stop play and award the free throws if the error is caught before the game restarts after the next dead ball.
5. Basketball players frequently use braces and guards, and referees ensure these do not endanger anyone’s safety. All gear must be smooth without sharp or sticking-out parts. Wearing metal or gemstone jewelry is not allowed. If a player is bleeding, officials will stop the game to remove them until the wound is properly covered and bleeding is controlled.