India's first international basketball referee - N D Krishnan - passes away at age 93

His remarkable career began with the prestigious 3rd Asian Basketball Championship held in Kuala Lumpur in 1965, & he was instrumental in forming the Maharashtra State Basketball Referees Association.

Mumbai bid farewell to a true legend today as N D Krishnan, the first international basketball referee from India, peacefully passed away at the age of 93. His demise marks the end of an era and leaves a void in the world of basketball that will be difficult to fill.

Krishnan embarked on his illustrious journey in the realm of basketball officiating in the 1960s. His remarkable career began with the prestigious 3rd Asian Basketball Championship held in Kuala Lumpur in 1965, where he showcased his impeccable skills on the court. Throughout his tenure, he officiated numerous international games, both in India and abroad, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

Mr N D Krishan. India’s first international basketball referee. Image credit - MSBA.

Beyond his accomplishments as a referee, Krishnan played a pivotal role in shaping the basketball landscape in India. Recognizing the need for a dedicated association for basketball referees, he was instrumental in forming the Maharashtra State Basketball Referees Association (MSBRA). Through this platform, he mentored and nurtured aspiring young talents, providing them with guidance and opportunities to shine on both national and international stages. Many of these proteges went on to achieve remarkable success in their own right.

Krishnan's expertise was highly sought after, and he was a familiar face in the Senior National Finals. His officiating skills were truly a spectacle to behold, captivating not only the seasoned players but also inspiring the budding youngsters who aspired to follow in his footsteps. With an astute understanding of the game and an unwavering commitment to fairness, he was revered as a paragon of excellence in the realm of basketball refereeing.

In addition to his significant contributions on the court, Krishnan assumed leadership roles within the basketball community. He served as the Chairman of the Basketball Federation of India's Referees Board and the MSBRA during the 1990s, actively working towards the development and promotion of the sport. His dedication and passion for basketball knew no bounds, and his impact on the Indian basketball landscape will be felt for generations to come.

As we bid farewell to N D Krishnan, we celebrate his remarkable life and the enduring legacy he leaves behind. His exceptional achievements as a pioneering international basketball referee, his instrumental role in nurturing young talents, and his tireless commitment to the growth of basketball in India will forever be etched in our collective memory. May his soul find eternal peace, and may his inspiration continue to guide and inspire future generations of basketball enthusiasts.