Global recognition for NBL referees

Australian basketball officiating is reaching new heights on the international stage, with a remarkable group of NBL referees recently earning appointments to FIBA tournaments across the globe.

James Griguol officiated the Gold Medal game at the U17 Women’s World Cup in Mexico last July, followed by another Gold Medal game at the U15 Oceania Championship in Canberra. His impressive international calendar continues with appearances at the Asia Cup qualifiers in New Zealand, the U19 World Cup in Switzerland this month, and a coveted spot at the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas in July.

Ruben Woolcock has also enjoyed stellar experience, serving as Crew Chief for the Bronze Medal game at the U17 Women’s World Cup and returning to a Bronze Medal game at the BCL Youth Tournament in Turkey in April. He’s set to continue his work at the U19 Women’s World Cup in Czechia this July.

Nico Fernandes officiated at the Women’s Olympic Qualifiers in Hungary, the U17 World Cup Men’s Bronze Medal game in Turkey, and the Pre-Qualifiers World Cup Women’s Finals in Rwanda. Nico also contributed at the U15 FIBA Oceania Men’s tournament and is currently at the U19 World Cup in Switzerland.

Jacqui Dover continues to make a significant contribution across the globe, officiating at the Women’s Olympic Qualifiers in China and the Women’s World Cup Pre-Qualifiers in Mexico City.

Similarly, James Boyer’s impressive itinerary included the Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament in China, the Men’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament Semi-Final in Puerto Rico, and the pinnacle of basketball, the Paris Olympics. His schedule extends into September 2025 with the Intercontinental Cup Final in Singapore.

Adding to this distinguished list, Blaine Krapljanov’s appointment to the Paris Paralympics for Wheelchair Basketball highlights the breadth of talent from the NBL officiating ranks.