Hey,

Game 5 saw Bavetta, Crawford and Salvatore doing the game. It occured to me that these men might be the longest serving NBA officials. (I'm sure someone will know...) Regardless, could the number of years of experience officiating approach 100 for that game? What about NBA experience?

Mike

I think Dick Bavetta has 100 years all by himself. The guy was a contemporary of Dr. Naismith.

However, no doubt that he's one of the best - possibly one of the best ever. How he does it at his age is a mystery to me. More power to him.

I don't believe there's anyone working that has 30 years in. Hue Hollins, (Scottie Pippen's best friend :)), has 27 in and he's retiring. Most of these guys get out before they hit 30 years. Hugh Evans, and Jake O'Donnell come to mind as officials who retired at the 27, 28 year mark.

But it did seem that it was a very veteran crew, considering the younger groups we've seen working together.

Which Crawford are we referring to? Joe Crawford or Dan Crawford? Both have been in the NBA for a very long time, and both worked a game in the NBA finals this year.

P.S. Joe Crawford is the brother of MLB Umpire Jerry Crawford.

I believe Game 5 was Joe Crawford and Dan Crawford worked Game 6. I believe Joe has 27 years in.

P.s. Joe's dad was the legendary baseball umpire, Shag Crawford.

Are there any sons or daughters of Joey or Jerry that are coming up? (Kind of like the Wendelstedts?)

Many North American family traditions are more traditional such as farming. That would be quite a story - the family tradition being officiating professional sports.

Mike