Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the United States, and the NCAA Division 1 basketball refs are a crucial part of the game. They are responsible for enforcing the rules and maintaining the flow of the game. But how much do they make per game?
The Salary of Division 1 Basketball Refs
Division 1 basketball refs are paid on a per game basis, and the amount of money they make varies depending on their experience level and the type of game they are working. Generally, Division 1 basketball referees make anywhere from $700 to $1,800 for a single game.
The top-level officials, such as those who work the NCAA tournament, can make up to $3,000 per game. The NCAA also pays its referees an additional bonus for each round of the tournament they work.
How Experience Affects Pay
Division 1 basketball refs are paid according to their experience level. Referees with more experience generally make more money per game than those who are just starting out.
The NCAA has four different levels of experience: Rookie, Veteran, Elite, and Master. Rookie referees are just starting out and usually make $700 per game. Veteran referees have been officiating for at least five years and usually make around $1,000 per game. Elite referees have been officiating for at least ten years and usually make between $1,500 and $2,000. Master referees have been officiating for at least fifteen years and make up to $3,000 per game.
The Type of Game Affects Pay
The type of game a Division 1 basketball referee works also affects their pay. Regular season conference games usually pay the least, usually between $700 and $1,000. Non-conference regular season games usually pay a bit more, between $1,000 and $1,500. Postseason conference tournament games pay the most, usually between $1,500 and $2,500.
The NCAA tournament is the highest-paying type of game for Division 1 basketball refs. They can make up to $3,000 per game, plus a bonus for each round they work.
The Benefits of Being a Division 1 Basketball Ref
Being a Division 1 basketball referee can be a lucrative job, but it also comes with some other benefits. Referees receive free travel and accommodations to the games they work, as well as meals. They also get to see some of the best college basketball games in the country and get to be part of the excitement of the tournament.
The downside is that referees are often away from home for extended periods of time and have to miss out on family and other life commitments.
Conclusion
Division 1 basketball refs are an important part of the game and are well-compensated for their services. They usually make anywhere from $700 to $3,000 per game, depending on their experience level and the type of game they are working. Referees also receive other benefits, such as free travel and accommodations, but they also have to sacrifice time away from home.