

The Crown Refs Podcast
Paul Diasparra
The Crown Refs Podcast is the ultimate audio experience for basketball officials looking to elevate their craft, build confidence, and achieve long-term success on and off the court. Hosted by Paul Diasparra, this podcast helps referees master their skills, refine their judgment, and develop a strong officiating mindset. It features top names in officiating like Joey Crawford, Roger Ayers, Dee Kantner, Maia Chaka, Lisa Mattingly, Tyler Ford, Penny Davis, Reggie Greenwood, Scott Foster, Al Battista, Crystal Hogan, Bo Boroski, Gary Vee, Clarence Armstrong, and more. #Servethegame
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 16, 2023 • 1h 4min
#341 Governing the Gloves | feat. Kenny Bayless | Hall of Fame Boxing Referee
We are privileged to have an in-depth conversation with the legendary boxing referee, Kenny Bayless. In his Hall of Fame career his vast experiences range from the adrenaline-fueled world of professional boxing, including iconic matches such as Mayweather vs. Pacquiao, to his noteworthy appearance in the blockbuster film "Creed". Kenny provides a unique window into the multifaceted realm of refereeing, illustrating the intricate balance between upholding the rules and understanding the passion of the fighters.
Indulge as we explore topics including the significance of rigorous training, the transformative power of effective verbal commands, and the rising challenges faced by referees in contemporary sports, especially basketball. Kenny's candid anecdotes and professional insights offer listeners an unparalleled understanding of the dedication, integrity, and passion required to excel in the dynamic world of refereeing. Whether you're a boxing aficionado or just intrigued by the craft of officiating, this episode promises enlightening takeaways for all.
❤️𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆
Patreon.com/crownrefs
🎶 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗶𝗸 𝗧𝗼𝗸
https://www.tiktok.com/@crownrefs?_t=8cv8RyeL7ve&_r=1
📷 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗚
https://instagram.com/crownrefs?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲
https://sideline.bsnsports.com/schools/new_york/hartsdale/crown-refs

Nov 5, 2023 • 1h 40min
#340 J.D. Collins | Former NCAA Men’s National Coordinator | Final Four Official
In the latest installment of the Crown Refs podcast, join us as we sit down with the distinguished NCAA official, J.D. Collins. With a storied career spanning 18 years in Division 1 and a seven-year stint as the NCAA NATIONAL coordinator, Collins is a wellspring of knowledge and experience. In a conversation peppered with personal anecdotes and invaluable insights, he shares his journey to the top tiers of officiating, discusses the nuances of the new block charge rule in college basketball, and imparts wisdom on finding the delicate balance between a demanding career and personal life.
Collins opens up about the significance of nurturing relationships in the industry, This episode promises not just a look back at a storied career but also an exploration of the profound, lasting connections built along the way. It’s an episode brimming with heartfelt reflections, words of wisdom, and the rich narrative of a man who has deeply impacted the world of basketball officiating. We hope you enjoy!
❤️𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆
Patreon.com/crownrefs
🎶 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗶𝗸 𝗧𝗼𝗸
https://www.tiktok.com/@crownrefs?_t=8cv8RyeL7ve&_r=1
📷 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗚
https://instagram.com/crownrefs?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
📖 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗹𝘆 𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗹𝗲
https://medium.com/@crownrefs/sundayswish3-491fad98f57b
💌 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗻𝗲𝘄𝘀𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿
https://conta.cc/3C7gVt8
𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲
https://sideline.bsnsports.com/schools/new_york/hartsdale/crown-refs

Oct 29, 2023 • 20min
#339 Fouls & Trolls Vol. 2 | feat. Marc Vaccaro
In the second episode of "Fouls & Trolls," we're joined by co-host Marc Vaccaro as we navigate through the controversial topic of giving warnings to assistant coaches. As we reflect on our personal experiences and mistakes, we share thoughts on the necessity of warnings and the balance of issuing technical fouls.
Beyond that, we appreciate some kind comments from our community, delve into the importance of communication between refs and coaches, and touch on the professionalism of refs' attire during different games. Towards the end, we explore the little details in refereeing that might go unnoticed but significantly impact the overall presentation of the game. So, whether you're a ref, a coach, a player, or just a fan, this episode promises to provide a mix of humor, education, and relatability!
❤️𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆
Patreon.com/crownrefs
🎶 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗶𝗸 𝗧𝗼𝗸
https://www.tiktok.com/@crownrefs?_t=8cv8RyeL7ve&_r=1
📷 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗚
https://instagram.com/crownrefs?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
📖 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗹𝘆 𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗹𝗲
https://medium.com/@crownrefs/sundayswish3-491fad98f57b
💌 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗻𝗲𝘄𝘀𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿
https://conta.cc/3C7gVt8
𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲
https://sideline.bsnsports.com/schools/new_york/hartsdale/crown-refs

Oct 18, 2023 • 20min
#338 Fouls & Trolls Vol. 1 | feat. Marc Vaccaro
Welcome to our fun and engaging new series, "Fouls & Trolls." As we wade through a sea of Tik Tok comments, we encounter a myriad of reactions, from earnest questions to the sassiest zingers targeting our beloved officials. But fret not! With a sprinkle of humor and a dash of grace, we respond with love, even to the harshest critics. This episode is a testament to the "next play mentality," underscoring the essence of resilience, not just in the game, but in life itself.
As we chart these digital waters, the podcast serves more than just witty comebacks. It becomes a beacon for players, coaches, fans, and officials, illuminating the intricate art and science of officiating. So join us on this enlightening journey, where we not only challenge the trolls but also celebrate the beauty of the game, one comment at a time.
❤️𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆
Patreon.com/crownrefs
🎶 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗶𝗸 𝗧𝗼𝗸
https://www.tiktok.com/@crownrefs?_t=8cv8RyeL7ve&_r=1
📷 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗚
https://instagram.com/crownrefs?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
📖 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗹𝘆 𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗹𝗲
https://medium.com/@crownrefs/sundayswish3-491fad98f57b
💌 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗻𝗲𝘄𝘀𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿
https://conta.cc/3C7gVt8
𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲
https://sideline.bsnsports.com/schools/new_york/hartsdale/crown-refs
𝟭𝟱% 𝗼𝗳𝗳 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗚𝗲𝗮𝗿 (Enter CROWN15)
Refereestore.com

Oct 7, 2023 • 49min
#337 The Porsha & Pauly Pod | Chapter 4
Welcome back to chapter 4 of the Porsha & Pauly Pod! In this insightful episode, we dissect specific in-game situations, delving into the subtle nuances of positioning, signaling, and managing on-court dynamics. Porsha opens up about her journey, sharing valuable lessons on trust—both in oneself and one's partners.
Furthermore, we explore the gray areas in decision-making and emphasize the importance of maintaining game flow without compromising on fairness all while breaking down Porsha's Varsity game from this past season. We hope you enjoy!
❤️Join Crown Refs for a free 7-day trial
Patreon.com/crownrefs
🎶 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗶𝗸 𝗧𝗼𝗸
https://www.tiktok.com/@crownrefs?_t=8cv8RyeL7ve&_r=1
📷 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗚
https://instagram.com/crownrefs?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
📖 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗹𝘆 𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗹𝗲
https://medium.com/@crownrefs/sundayswish3-491fad98f57b
💌 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗻𝗲𝘄𝘀𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿
https://conta.cc/3C7gVt8
𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲
https://sideline.bsnsports.com/schools/new_york/hartsdale/crown-refs
𝟭𝟱% 𝗼𝗳𝗳 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗚𝗲𝗮𝗿 (Enter CROWN15)
Refereestore.com

Sep 15, 2023 • 33min
#335 Bridging the Gap Between Coaches and Officials | Coach Matt Philbrick | The Real Game Podcast
In this engaging episode, we delve into the vital role that communication plays in sports, particularly between coaches and officials. We underscore the significance of mutual understanding and respect to perform their roles effectively and sustain a positive game environment, even during conflict resolution. Listeners are introduced to the importance of de-escalation, unwavering professionalism, and emotional intelligence within sports.
Further into the episode, we explore the prevailing challenges in basketball officiating, such as the concerning shortage of referees and its causes. The necessity of a culture shift, promoting respect and support for all participants in the game, is highlighted. This episode is a riveting listen for anyone involved in sports, offering a deep understanding of how successful communication, respect, and knowledge can enhance the basketball experience for all stakeholders.
❤️𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆
Patreon.com/crownrefs
🎶 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗶𝗸 𝗧𝗼𝗸
https://www.tiktok.com/@crownrefs?_t=8cv8RyeL7ve&_r=1
📷 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗚
https://instagram.com/crownrefs?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
📖 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗹𝘆 𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗹𝗲
https://medium.com/@crownrefs/sundayswish3-491fad98f57b
💌 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗻𝗲𝘄𝘀𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿
https://conta.cc/3C7gVt8
𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲
https://sideline.bsnsports.com/schools/new_york/hartsdale/crown-refs
𝟭𝟱% 𝗼𝗳𝗳 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗚𝗲𝗮𝗿 (Enter CROWN15)
Refereestore.com

Sep 1, 2023 • 44min
#334 Lab Work Ep. 2 | w/Shari & Khalid | Crown Refs Mentor
Welcome back to the second episode of the Crown Refs Podcast Series: Lab Work, with Shari and Khalid, who are husband and wife officials from Georgia. Our conversation primarily revolves around their recent gameplay review, with particular focus on maintaining correct positioning, effectively communicating with fellow referees, and having a clear understanding of the game dynamics. Throughout the discussion, they address the necessity of pre-game planning, emphasizing that the relationship among the officials and their collective understanding of the game is just as crucial as their interaction with the players.
Moreover, the episode delivers rich content on understanding, interpreting, and enforcing game rules accurately. Shari and Khalid discuss topics like how to stop the clock correctly, signal interpretations, and staying open to the play to make accurate judgments. They also share their experience about handling fast-paced rotations and the importance of always being alert to the game's flow. The pair also delves into the significance of continually learning and growing within their roles, highlighting that no game is the same and every experience brings with it a new learning curve. This episode serves as a valuable resource for referees at all levels seeking to enhance their game management skills and increase their understanding of the sport.
❤️𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆
Patreon.com/crownrefs
🎶 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗶𝗸 𝗧𝗼𝗸
https://www.tiktok.com/@crownrefs?_t=8cv8RyeL7ve&_r=1
📷 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗚
https://instagram.com/crownrefs?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
📖 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗹𝘆 𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗹𝗲
https://medium.com/@crownrefs/sundayswish3-491fad98f57b
💌 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗻𝗲𝘄𝘀𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿
https://conta.cc/3C7gVt8
𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲
https://sideline.bsnsports.com/schools/new_york/hartsdale/crown-refs
𝟭𝟱% 𝗼𝗳𝗳 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗚𝗲𝗮𝗿 (Enter CROWN15)
Refereestore.com
📬 𝗘𝗺𝗮𝗶𝗹 𝘂𝘀
Crownrefs@gmail.com

Aug 14, 2023 • 1h 19min
#333 Roger on Repeat | Feat. Roger Ayers | Crown Refs Mentor
In this episode, we sit down with the highly experienced NCAA basketball official, Roger Ayers, who generously shares his profound insights from his journey in officiating. Renowned for his communication skills, relationship building, and dedication to the craft, Roger provides invaluable advice on game management, handling coaches, dealing with difficult situations, and the importance of continuous learning in the world of officiating. He also imparts personal experiences from his journey, shedding light on the nuances of high-level officiating, and offers encouragement for aspiring officials at all levels.
Through a rich and engaging conversation, this episode uncovers several key learning takeaways. Roger emphasizes the importance of respect, communication, and relationship building with coaches, revealing how these traits could significantly influence the game's flow. He also underlines the importance of personal improvement, urging officials to continuously learn, grow, and adapt. Through a rapid-fire round of questions, listeners also get to learn more about Roger's personal preferences, his unique insights on various aspects of the game, and some entertaining anecdotes from his career. Tune in to this episode for a wealth of wisdom from one of the most respected figures in college basketball officiating.
❤️𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆
Patreon.com/crownrefs
🎶 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗶𝗸 𝗧𝗼𝗸
https://www.tiktok.com/@crownrefs?_t=8cv8RyeL7ve&_r=1
📷 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗚
https://instagram.com/crownrefs?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
📖 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗹𝘆 𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗹𝗲
https://medium.com/@crownrefs/sundayswish3-491fad98f57b
💌 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗻𝗲𝘄𝘀𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿
https://conta.cc/3C7gVt8
𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲
https://sideline.bsnsports.com/schools/new_york/hartsdale/crown-refs
𝟭𝟱% 𝗼𝗳𝗳 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗚𝗲𝗮𝗿 (Enter CROWN15)
Refereestore.com

Aug 9, 2023 • 7min
#332 Camp Clips 19 | Having all of your partners back | Join our Community
Use these responses when a coach criticizes our partners or just use it anytime that you want to evoke an empathetic response from the coach after they let off steam. How do you respond when a coach calls your partner horrible? What about awful? What about terrible? Many officials that we've polled on this topic say they would NOT give a technical foul if they were in this situation.
We think officials need to adopt the philosophy that if something happens to someone in the crew then it happens to everyone in the crew. No matter who you work with, have EVERYONE's back the SAME. That means having a first time partner's back the same way you would with your closest referee friend. After calling a technical foul, avoid pointing at a player or coach as it can be seen as an irritant or antagonistic. Instead, have the patience to report it to the table so they can help notify everyone. Respect the game and professional communication towards officials are standards that all of us should look to meet each game.
❤️𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆
Patreon.com/crownrefs
🎶 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗶𝗸 𝗧𝗼𝗸
https://www.tiktok.com/@crownrefs?_t=8cv8RyeL7ve&_r=1
📷 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗚
https://instagram.com/crownrefs?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
📖 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗹𝘆 𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗹𝗲
https://medium.com/@crownrefs/sundayswish3-491fad98f57b
💌 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗻𝗲𝘄𝘀𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿
https://conta.cc/3C7gVt8
𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲
https://sideline.bsnsports.com/schools/new_york/hartsdale/crown-refs
𝟭𝟱% 𝗼𝗳𝗳 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗚𝗲𝗮𝗿 (Enter CROWN15)
Refereestore.com

Aug 1, 2023 • 13min
#331 Camp Clips 18 | JC2 Officials Camp
J.B. Caldwell has been one of the officiating industry's top educators for quite some time now and is still as motivated as ever. More impressively, he's been able to build a loyal community of highly-skilled and dedicated officials who've been able to seasonally grow their game under his guidance and tutelage. It was an absolute pleasure. Remember to close down in the lead position when the ball travels across the basket line to the weak side. We are noticing that some officials are positioned too wide and disconnected from the matchup by trying to ref it from across the paint while looking through players. When we properly explain our calls using rule-based terminology we stand as the experts and can avoid trying to "sell the call" and using debate language. If you can't explain it then don't call it. Replacing "on the floor" with "before the shot" when waving off a shot attempt and Ree-in Knysch sticks around for a little extra signal work after the game.
When a player begins to trash talk we have to instantly respond whether that's with our words or by applying the rules as written. We've all experienced the feeling of an overwhelming moment and a lack of game control. Usually, these moments can occur during confrontations between opponents with multiple players involved. Being a great partner comes in so many different ways! Bringing in 100% information is one of the many.
❤️𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆
Patreon.com/crownrefs
🎶 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗶𝗸 𝗧𝗼𝗸
https://www.tiktok.com/@crownrefs?_t=8cv8RyeL7ve&_r=1
📷 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗚
https://instagram.com/crownrefs?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
📖 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗹𝘆 𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗹𝗲
https://medium.com/@crownrefs/sundayswish3-491fad98f57b
💌 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗻𝗲𝘄𝘀𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿
https://conta.cc/3C7gVt8
𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲
https://sideline.bsnsports.com/schools/new_york/hartsdale/crown-refs
𝟭𝟱% 𝗼𝗳𝗳 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗚𝗲𝗮𝗿 (Enter CROWN15)
Refereestore.com