Joey Crawford
Inducted:
2026
Stats
Born
August 30, 1951
Havertown, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Position:
NBA Referee
College:
NA
Joey Crawford was one of the most recognizable and experienced referees in NBA history. A third-generation referee, Crawford officiated 39 NBA seasons, beginning in 1977 and retiring in 2016. He worked 2,561 regular-season games, the most in NBA history at the time of his retirement, and officiated 374 playoff games, including a record 50 NBA Finals games. Crawford also worked 29 consecutive NBA playoffs, a record for an official.
Known for his energetic style and strong presence on the court, he became a fixture in the league's biggest games. Crawford officiated 21 NBA Finals series and three All-Star Games. His career included several memorable moments, but his longevity and consistency ultimately defined his legacy. Crawford was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2026 as a referee.
Crawford's Awards and Honors
- 3× NBA All-Star Game official
- 50 NBA Finals games
- 374 playoff games
- 29 consecutive NBA playoffs
- 2,561 regular-season games
- Officiated 21 NBA Finals series
- Officiated the NBA Finals in 21 different series
NBA Position
NBA Referee (1977–2016)
NBA Stats
Officiating Career:
39 Years (1977–2016)
Games Officiated:
2,561
Playoff Games:
374
NBA Finals Games:
50
NBA Finals Series:
21
Consecutive NBA Playoffs:
29
All-Star Games:
3