The salary of college basketball referees can vary widely based on factors such as the level of the game, the referee’s experience, and the specific conference or league. Here’s an approximate breakdown:
1. Division I Referees:
– Per Game Pay: Referees working in NCAA Division I basketball can earn between $1,000 and $2,000 per game.
– Annual Earnings: A referee officiating a full season of Division I games (which may include both regular season and tournament games) can earn anywhere from $50,000 to $150,000 annually, depending on how many games they officiate and their experience level.
2. Division II and Division III Referees:
– Per Game Pay: These referees typically earn less, with per-game pay ranging from $300 to $1,000, depending on the level and location of the game.
– Annual Earnings: The total earnings for Division II and III referees may range from $15,000 to $50,000 annually, again depending on the number of games worked and experience.
3. Lower Levels (e.g., High School, Junior College):
– Referees working at the high school or junior college level generally earn between $50 and $200 per game, with annual earnings varying based on the number of games they work.
It’s important to note that top-tier referees can also earn additional compensation for postseason games (like conference tournaments or the NCAA tournament), as well as for travel and lodging, which can increase their overall earnings.
