I ponder the ethics of this relationship dynamic. Should NBA players have relationships with referees? Mutual respect and good rapport it’s fine to an extent as long as it’s all in passing and part of the professional atmosphere. However I don’t want biases to be created from it. Become buddies with referees after you retire, when it doesn’t hurt the integrity of the game. However, maybe limit the interactions so you don’t accidentally influence the outcome of your games. Just a thought of course.
