Judgement refers to an official’s ability to make the best decision for the game based on rules, context, and game flow.

Some plays are:

• Non-negotiable (out of bounds, shot clock violations)

Other plays require judgement from the official:

• Fouls
• Game management
• Communication

Why does using judgement matter:

Good judgement separates:

• Average officials
• Elite officials

Officiating focus:

• Apply rules with context
• Consider the game situation
• Ask yourself: Does the game need a whistle here?

Example:

Calling a technical foul for an untucked jersey in the final seconds of a close game = poor judgement