High school basketball referees are responsible for enforcing the rules, managing game tempo, and keeping competition fair from tip-off to the final buzzer. But beyond the stripes and whistles, the job also comes with a paycheck.
Pay for high school basketball officials can vary based on state guidelines, school budgets, and officiating experience. Here’s a clear look at what basketball referees are earning at the high school level in 2025—and what factors play into those rates.
Most high school basketball referees are paid per game, and rates typically increase depending on the level of competition.
Here’s a general breakdown of current pay:
Games usually last around 90 minutes, including warm-ups, so the pay roughly translates to a decent hourly rate, especially when working multiple games in a night (e.g. back-to-back JV and varsity assignments).
Some states or school districts offer slightly higher rates in urban areas or for high-demand time slots like Friday nights.
Varsity games are almost always officiated with three-person crews, while JV and freshman games may use two-person crews depending on availability and budget.
The workload is divided among referees, but each official is typically paid the same rate per game, regardless of whether they’re the crew chief or a supporting official. Only in select playoff games do pay scales differ by role.
Working more games per week—especially doubleheaders—is one of the best ways for referees to maximize earnings during the season.
The high school basketball season generally runs from late November through early March, with some variation by state. Officials who work regularly throughout the season can earn a solid supplemental income.
For example:
Some referees also continue into spring or summer leagues, which may be run by clubs or community organizations and offer separate pay structures.
There’s no national pay scale for high school basketball referees, and game fees are typically set by state athletic associations or local officiating boards. Some states have increased rates in recent years to address referee shortages and rising travel costs.
States with larger populations or higher costs of living tend to pay more per game, while smaller or rural areas may offer less—but often with lower travel demands or more relaxed scheduling.
Additionally, some states offer small stipends for playoff assignments or mileage reimbursement if officials must travel beyond a set distance.
Referees must be certified by their state’s athletic association to officiate high school basketball. Requirements usually include:
Assignments are managed through local associations or assignors, who match officials to games based on availability, rating, and performance. Newer officials typically start with lower-level games before moving up.
Returning referees with strong evaluations are more likely to receive playoff or tournament assignments that come with higher compensation.
High school basketball referees are generally considered independent contractors, not employees. That means:
Despite the independent status, most referees are part of an officiating chapter or association that provides support, mentorship, and scheduling tools.
In 2025, high school basketball referees earn anywhere from $50 to $125 per game, depending on the level and region. For those willing to work consistently throughout the season, it’s a reliable way to stay involved in the sport—and earn a meaningful side income while doing so.
Demand for quality officials remains high, and with continued growth in school athletics, refereeing offers both opportunity and stability for those who stick with it.
