The highest-paid NBA referee currently earns up to $550,000. You can find out about the breakdown of how these salaries, average salary and how they are paid and how refs would grow to earn significantly.
Today, NBA referees are ranked among the highest-paid officials in professional sports alongside the English Premier, NHL, etc. But getting the highest pay cheque does come down to a series of factors, including experience, performance, and tenure in the league.
Here’s a breakdown of the top 10 highest-paid NBA referees in 2025:
James Capers ($550,000 per year)
James Capers leads the list of the highest-paid refs in the NBA today with a pay cheque of $550,000 yearly.
James is arguably one of the best hands when it comes to officiating in the franchise. He is known for having decades of experience and has been applauded for his precise judgement in high-pressure games.
Statistics show that he has officiated numerous NBA Finals and playoff matchups, which makes him stand out in the franchise.
Sean Corbin ($550,000 per year)
The second on the list is Sean Corbin, who earns the same salary as James. Both head home with the highest annual salary in the NBA franchise.
Corbin is one of the most consistent refs in the NBA, known for his firm decision-making and ability to handle intense game situations, which sets him apart from other officials.
Tony Brothers ($550,000 per year)
Getting to the top of the payment system is not an easy job, but it was made possible through hard work and consistency.
Tony Brothers is a perfect example of strict officiating in the franchise. Today he has been recognisable for his impressive refereeing due to his approach that includes a strict officiating style and a no-nonsense approach.
Tony has made multiple NBA Finals appearances as well as high-stakes games in the franchise.
Rodney Mott ($550,000 per year)
Rodney Mott will surely make the list amid his impressive style of refereeing. Today, he has successfully built a reputation for making quick and fair calls, thus creating a balanced and competitive environment.
Rodney Mott is one of the most experienced hands in the NBA today, which makes him a trusted choice for the biggest games, including the playoff matchups.
Scott Foster ($550,000 per year)
Scott Foster is the next NBA referee with the highest pay cheque. He is also one of the officials with strict enforcement of rules and high-profile officiating, especially in the NBA Finals.
Ken Mauer ($550,000 per year)
Ken Mauer is another experienced hand you can find in the NBA today. He has officiated multiple high-profile games, showing his consistency and fairness.
One key attribute has been his ability to manage player disputes during tense moments.
Pat Fraher ($550,000 per year)
Next up on the list is Pat Fraher, who has been applauded for his sharp decision-making. He is also recognised for his ability to control fast-paced games.
Fraher's experience enables him to secure games, especially in high-profile playoff games, which makes him one of the most important referees in the NBA.
Tom Washington ($550,000 per year)
Tom Washington is the next name on the list of the highest-paid NBA referees today. Statistics show that he has officiated over 28 seasons in the NBA franchise.
He has been involved in the regular season, playoffs and multiple NBA Finals and continues to add to a pool of experienced referees in the league.
Marc Davis ($550,000 per year)
Marc Davis is another name that cannot be ignored when it comes to the best in the business. He has officiated in over 21 seasons, from the regular season and playoffs to the NBA finals.
Eric Lewis ($500,000 per year)
Lewis is the next name with a whopping pay cheque annually. He is one of the most considered referees and is known for his calm and composed officiating style.
NBA refs' salary breakdown
The salary of NBA referees is structured based on many factors such as experience, seniority, and performance. Here is a detailed explanation for you.
Rookie Referees
A rookie ref earns around $250,000 per season. As part of their entry to the big stage, they may officiate both NBA and G League games.
Mid-Level Referees
They make between $350,000 and $500,000 per season and are deployed to regular season NBA games.
Veteran Referees
This is the highest level of refereeing in the NBA. They make $500,000 to $550,000+ per season.
Bonus payment and other rewards for NBA refs
Playoff Bonuses
Refs who are selected to officiate in the NBA Playoffs would receive additional pay, which is as follows:
- First Round: $1,500–$2,500 per game
- Conference Semifinals $3,500–$5,000 per game
- Conference Finals: $10,000+ per game
- NBA Finals: $30,000 per game.
Additional Compensation
- Travel & Accommodation
- Daily food and travel stipends.
- Health Benefits
- Training & Evaluations.