Ben Taylor has stepped into a new chapter of his officiating career, receiving a jacket as a full-fledged referee for the NBA Finals. This will be a historic first for Taylor, who has served as an alternate official in the past. With this stellar assignment under his belt, he is up for the challenges that come with officiating one of professional basketball’s most coveted events. He welcomes the challenges that accompany this remarkable opportunity.
Taylor clear-eyed and laser-focused on the opportunity. He did his due diligence to know the differences between the jackets he was awarded as an alternate and those awarded to a bona fide finals referee. He had an interesting way to keep tabbed on his past jobs. Taylor literally put “ALT” on the tag of every coat he owned.
The official crews, typically for an NBA Finals 9 a.m. Eastern on a game day, received their traditional leaking. This year’s choice illuminates just how invaluable experience is for referees. Scott Foster 1-0 Scott Foster has turned into something of a finals mainstay. He is known as the oldest of the quartet of officials, working the title series for the 18th time. Foster has a total of 25 NBA Finals games under his belt during the course of his career.
Helping Foster stand out amongst the crowd is her compatriot Maria Sole Ferrieri Caputi, who made her selection for this year’s finals. Tony Brothers and Marc Davis will work the Finals for the 14th time. This is a testament to their long-term loyalty to the league. James Capers is right on their heels with a 13th, Zach Zarba behind the plate with an impressive 12th. For John Goble, it’s a career-high ninth time in his career to receive the accolade. Meanwhile, David Guthrie is making his eighth semifinals appearance as a referee in these critical games. It will be Josh Tiven’s sixth time as a selected final, and James Williams’ fifth. On the other hand, Sean Wright couldn’t have been happier during his second pick.
In looking back at how he got to this moment, Taylor shared his heartfelt gratitude for receiving the honor.
“It’s the culmination of life’s work. I got into the minor leagues at 20 or 21 years old. It’s all I’ve ever known and it’s all I’ve ever done. It’s the pinnacle. The extreme pinnacle is Game 7 crew chief, but this is a strong step in that direction.” – Ben Taylor
The NBA President of League Operations Byron Spruell expressed appreciation for the chosen officials’ commitment. He praised their discipline, dedication and reinvestment all season long.
“We are grateful for these 12 individuals and their dedication to serving the game at the highest levels throughout the season.” – Byron Spruell
Spruell further highlighted the significance of being chosen to work the NBA Finals, stating:
“Being selected to work the NBA Finals is the top honor as an NBA official, and I congratulate this exceptional group on a worthy achievement.” – Byron Spruell
Taylor’s enthusiasm shines through as he gears up for his first ever finals appearance. He knows that working at this level takes mental toughness, but more importantly, confidence in himself and the skills he possesses.
“It’s a lot of mental ability to be able to say, ‘OK, can I live with the work that I’ve done and be OK with whatever comes?’” – Ben Taylor
As Taylor slips into his new jacket — a tangible marker of success in his field of choice, — he reflects on what it all means.
“That jacket’s really sweet and it’s sort of our trophy.” – Ben Taylor
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