|
|
Post by js on Jul 31, 2014 13:24:48 GMT -5
|
|
|
|
Post by FredFan7 on Jul 31, 2014 19:50:31 GMT -5
Bavetta was, by his own admission, a middle of the pack referee in the mid-80s. One night he and Jack Maddon worked the Sixers and Celtics. As usual, Bavetta was the junior official in the two man crew. Jack Maddon broke his leg in the game and Bavetta worked the rest on his own. That was the game in which Dr. J and Bird had their big fight. It was up to Bavetta to sort things out all by himself and do the best he could. He impressed the NBA that night and I'm sure it gave him the confidence he needed to take the next step in his career.
|
|
|
|
Post by FredFan7 on Jul 31, 2014 19:54:29 GMT -5
Bavetta was controversial in the officiating ranks before the Donaghy criminal charges. Many officials thought he played the political game a little too much and a little too well. Some accused him of self promotion.
I don't put too much stock in what Donaghy said, accusing Bavetta of manipulating games. If falsely accused, I feel sorry that he had to have his record smeared. If true.....well, my opinion would change.
All in all, Bavetta was an excellent official who deserves praise for his skills and longevity.
I think that will make Joe Crawford the most senior official on staff in terms of service time.
|
|
|
|
Post by FredFan7 on Jul 31, 2014 20:01:29 GMT -5
|
|
|
|
Post by JugglingReferee on Aug 3, 2014 7:49:23 GMT -5
Hall of Fame career to Dick.
Unfortunately, I believe that there is truth in Tim's story. I've been watching the NBA since 1979 and I thought things were fishy as far back as the mid-to-late-80s! I'm not saying that Bavetta was involved, but I wouldn't be surprised if he was.
|
|
|
|
Post by impz45 on Aug 4, 2014 21:28:01 GMT -5
Congratulations on a lengthly and successful career. I hope Mr. Bavetta was allowed to go out graciously and on his terms. It would be disappointing if it was suggessted he retire. I believe The League has done that over the past 20 years with other referees in which they had to make that choice.
Although Mr. Bavetta had a successful career, I can not see him getting in the Hall of Fame ahead of Jake O'Donnell or Darrell Garretson, 2 long time officials who I feel had more distinguished careers. When you went to a game he was assigned, you new you were in for a show, he is the last of the entertaining refs.
|
|
|
|
Post by FredFan7 on Aug 19, 2014 13:33:29 GMT -5
|
|
