I think it can sometimes help to build a rapport with fans. You obviously don't want them to become the focus, but sometimes (depends on the situation), it helps the game flow. Men's game tonight, the officials would give a thumbs up to the kids behind the scorer's table, talk and laugh a bit with the guys on the ends of the court, etc. I really think that, when done properly, this makes the game a bit more fun for everyone.
We had a situation with about 5 minutes left in the 2nd half. A1 (home) drives on a fast break, puts up a shot, and misses. Suddenly, we have whistles on the rebound. From my vantage point, I saw BI, and the C was waving off the basket. Turns out L had a foul on A3 on the play. No problem, I figure, just play on - except that there's a timeout.
The lead switches to become C, and is standing right in front of me in front of press row. Guy from the stands is giving him an earful, so the ref just kinda glances over his shoulder and stares at the fan (who quickly shut up). The ref and I smiled at each other, and he leaned down and said "Make sure that guy gets home safely."
Like I said; a better game for all involved!
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"To win the game is great. To play the game is greater. But to love the game is the greatest of all."
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