WORLD CUP 2023 QUALIFIERS

Dear Referees.

We have a very intense period ahead of us, with extremely important qualifying games for the FIBA 2023 World Cup. For our National Federations, these games are immensely important both on and off the court. Off the court it allows the Federations to build marketing and sponsorship opportunities which in turn helps build stronger foundation, and Elite level, operations. Without this investment the Federations can't grow our sport. For the players, it's the honor, after years of hard work, to pull on a National Team jersey and represent their country, a window to showcase theirs and their Teams quality, and possibly, an opportunity to work towards a better contract.

Unfortunately, many National teams may not be able to invite some of their best players to this window, whilst this may even out the games it will add pressure and tension, especially for those Nations who 'expect' to win. All of this, for sure, will transfer a certain nervousness and pressure onto us.

For our officiating community, this window must be viewed as a challenge and an opportunity. The challenge, as always, will come from the players, coaches and spectators and their high expectations of us on the court. The opportunity is for you to show people the hard work and time you have devoted to being the best official you can be. The best shape, the calm within the storm, the communicator, who is assertive with a customer service approach and who is strong in those final seconds when a decision is needed to be made. Deciding not to decide should not, and cannot, be the decision.

I know, and I have trust, that you will all give your highest level of performance in these games, individually and as a Crew, because that is our expectation, our unwritten code.

I wish you all safe travels to and from your games. 

Davorin