Bill Kennedy (referee)

Bill Kennedy is an American professional basketball referee in the National Basketball Association (NBA). He has officiated over 1,200 regular season games, as well as numerous playoff games, including NBA Finals games.

Kennedy began his NBA officiating career in 1995. Prior to joining the NBA, he officiated in the Continental Basketball Association (CBA) and at the collegiate level.

Kennedy gained wider public recognition in 2015 when Rajon Rondo, then playing for the Sacramento Kings, reportedly made homophobic remarks towards him during a game. After an investigation, Rondo was suspended by the NBA. Kennedy subsequently publicly came out as gay. His coming out was met with widespread support from the NBA community, players, coaches, and fans. It was seen as a significant moment in the ongoing efforts to promote LGBTQ+ inclusion in professional sports.