NEW YORK, February 26, 2025 – This Black History Month, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield celebrates the trailblazing achievements of Black referees in the National Basketball Association (NBA) while promoting a unique initiative aimed at shaping the future of basketball officiating. Through its support of the International Association of Approved Basketball Officials (IAABO), the leader in basketball rules education and training since 1921, Anthem is fostering career development and personal growth in sports.
PHOTO CAPTION: Gerald Thomas officiates New York PSAL basketball playoff game between Leaders in Our Neighborhood (LiON) Charter School and Harlem Village Academy, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025, at the Hyde Leadership Charter School gym in the Bronx. Thomas is a successful graduate of the International Association of Approved Basketball Officials (IAABO) industry-leading training program, sponsored in part by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield. Enrollment information for IAABO training is currently available at https://iaabou.org/. (Photos: Courtesy Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield)
The IAABO training program creates multiple pathways for individuals passionate about basketball officiating, allowing them to become certified referees. It equips them with the skills and knowledge to officiate at every level of the sport, from youth leagues to the professional arena. Supporting IAABO aligns with Anthem’s commitment to support communities throughout New York’s boroughs.
“Anthem is proud to honor the contributions of Black referees who have elevated the game of basketball and inspired countless individuals to pursue careers in officiating,” said Dr. Mark Levy, president and CEO, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield. “Our support for IAABO’s certification program reflects our belief that professional development opportunities are a key aspect of community support. Together, we celebrate the legacy of these trailblazers while paving the way for many New Yorkers for a future in basketball officiating.”
Spotlighting the Program
The IAABO program, recognized for its innovative rules and mechanics course offerings, provides:
- Comprehensive training on rules, regulations, and game management.
- Hands-on experience through mentorship and officiating assignments.
- Career-building opportunities to officiate at youth, high school, college, and professional levels.
By supporting this initiative, Anthem helps create pathways to success for individuals who might not otherwise have access to such opportunities.
Celebrating Trailblazers
As part of its commitment to honoring the past, Anthem is highlighting Black NBA referees who broke barriers and contributed to the game’s rich history. These profiles serve as inspiration for aspiring referees, showcasing the impact and leadership of trailblazers like:
- Lee Jones served as an NBA referee for 25 seasons, from 1971 to 1996, officiating 1,749 regular-season games and 71 playoff games.
- Violet Palmer made history as the first African American female referee in the NBA.
- Tony Brothers, with over 30 years of experience, officiated more than 1,800 regular-season games and 200 playoff games, including 17 NBA Finals.
- Hugh Evans officiated from 1972 to 2001 and worked nearly 2,000 regular-season games and 35 NBA Finals.
- Simone Jelks became a full-time NBA referee in 2020. Before joining the NBA, she played college basketball at the University of Southern California and officiated at the collegiate level.
- Marc Davis, a graduate from Howard University, has been a prominent NBA referee, known for his professionalism and contributions to the game.
- Danielle Scott was promoted to a full-time NBA official in 2021. She officiated in the NBA G League with an extensive background in collegiate officiating.
“Basketball officiating is more than a job—it’s an opportunity to lead, inspire, and be part of something bigger. It’s quite literally life-changing for many,” said IAABO Board 42 President Bernard Bowen Sr. “With Anthem’s support, we are able to expand our reach and make this career path accessible to more individuals who are truly passionate about the game.”
Individuals interested in becoming a basketball referee can take the first step toward earning their certification by visiting iaabo.org to learn more.
About IAABO
The International Association of Approved Basketball Officials (IAABO) is a globally recognized organization dedicated to the education, training, and development of basketball officials. With a focus on excellence and integrity, IAABO provides resources to help officials succeed at all levels of the game.
About Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield
Serving New Yorkers for 90 years, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield HP is on a mission to materially and measurably improve the health of New Yorkers. Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield HP is the trade name of Anthem HP, LLC. Independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, Anthem is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc., serving residents and businesses in the 17 eastern and southeastern counties of New York state. Additional information about Anthem is available at www.anthem.com. Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.
