Fans don’t usually want to know the names of referees because it means they’re not doing their jobs right, but we’ll make an exception for basketball’s most entertaining official.
Bill Kennedy has become a staple of NBA games when he goes to the monitor during a replay review, often delivering good or bad news to the team that challenged one of his calls with a pointed tone of voice.
Now Kennedy won’t be making us laugh for quite a while after he suffered a hamstring injury a little over a week ago in a game between the Orlando Magic and Philadelphia 76ers.
Longtime NBA referee Bill Kennedy will be sidelined indefinitely after suffering a hamstring strain at last night’s game in Orlando, but the hope is he can return before the regular season ends, league sources tell @NBAonPrime, @NBATV. pic.twitter.com/1gEP64vHMx
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) January 10, 2026
Fans immediately took to social media to send their well-wishes to Kennedy and were hopeful that they’ll get to watch him again soon. Reports indicate he could still return before the NBA regular season ends in April.
https://twitter.com/milehighami/status/2010152247813181516
Being a referee is a thankless job, and refs basically never have fans. The fact that Kennedy has online users creating fan cams and video compilations of his best moments means he’s doing something right.
Kennedy is a trailblazer off the court as well. He came out as gay in 2015, the first male NBA official to ever come out. Unfortunately, Kennedy received homophobic insults from players such as Rajon Rondo in the lead-up to revealing his sexuality to the world.
Kennedy has been officiating games in the NBA for 26 seasons. His longevity and courage to come out as gay make him a worthy addition to the LGBTQ Sports Hall of Fame. The announcement that Kennedy would be a part of this year’s class was made this morning.
The LGBTQ Sports Hall of Fame just started new inductions again in 2025 after a decade-long hiatus. Kennedy’s increased viral presence online certainly helps bring him fame and recognition that he’s always deserved.
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