NBA reinstates referee Crawford

People's Journal
September 19, 2007

NEW YORK (AFP) - The National Basketball Association reinstated referee Joey Crawford on Monday, five months after he was suspended indefinitely for “improper conduct and lack of professionalism.”

Crawford had been axed for his behavior during a game game between the San Antonio Spurs and Dallas Mavericks on April 15.

In the contest, Crawford assessed two technical fouls on Spurs superstar center Tim Duncan during a 76-second span of the third quarter, prompting Duncan to accuse the official of having a “personal problem” with him.

NBA commissioner David Stern lowered the boom on Crawford two days later, suspending the 31-year veteran for the remainder of the season - including the NBA Playoffs and Finals.

However, Stern said in a statement Monday that Crawford is ready to return to the game.

“Based on my meeting with Joey Crawford, his commitment to an ongoing counseling program and a favorable professional evaluation that was performed at my direction, I am satisfied that Joey understands the standards of game management and professionalism the NBA expects from him and that he will be able to conduct himself in accordance with those standards,” Stern said.

During his stellar career, Crawford’s 266 play-off and 38 finals games are the most among active officials.