In a surprising turn of events, NBA referee Eric Lewis has retired from his position amid an ongoing investigation into his use of social media. The league confirmed Lewis’s resignation in a news release on Wednesday, stating that his retirement would be effective immediately.
NBA Referee Eric Lewis Retires Amid Social Media Probe
Known as one of the best referees in the league, Eric Lewis had been a regular presence in playoff games and had officiated more than 80 postseason matchups, including six NBA Finals games. However, his retirement comes as a result of an investigation into his alleged unauthorized use of a burner account on X, formerly known as Twitter.
The NBA had initiated the probe just before the start of the NBA Finals, after receiving reports of Lewis’s potential use of a burner account to respond to critical messages directed at him and other NBA officials. The league’s investigation aimed to determine whether Lewis had violated a rule that prohibits referees from publicly commenting on officiating matters without prior approval from the league.
The recent statement released by the NBA confirmed that Lewis’s retirement prompted the closure of the social media activity investigation. While the details surrounding Lewis’s use of a burner account remain undisclosed, the league’s decision to close the investigation suggests that his retirement has resolved the matter.
Before the Finals began, it was widely believed that Lewis would have been among the 12 referees selected to officiate the games. However, due to the ongoing investigation, Lewis was not included in the final roster. An anonymous source familiar with the situation revealed that Lewis’s experience and playoff grades would have otherwise secured his spot. The source spoke on the condition of anonymity, as they were not authorized to publicly discuss the issue.
Eric Lewis, a respected veteran NBA referee has announced his retirement
Eric Lewis’s retirement marks the end of a successful 19-year career as an NBA referee. Throughout his tenure, he earned a reputation for his professionalism and expertise on the court. His presence in playoff games was highly regarded, and his contributions to the league will be remembered.
The NBA will now face the task of filling the void left by Lewis’s departure. As the league continues to strive for transparency and integrity in officiating, it remains committed to upholding the standards expected of its referees both on and off the court.
While Eric Lewis’s retirement may be bittersweet for fans and colleagues, it serves as a reminder that even those in positions of authority must adhere to the rules and regulations set forth by their respective organizations. As the NBA moves forward, it will undoubtedly take this opportunity to reinforce the importance of accountability and responsible social media use among its officials.
Lewis is retired from NBA, but he already has a new job.
The Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) has announced the hiring of Eric Lewis, a veteran referee across several levels of the game, including the National Basketball Association (NBA), as the league’s new Coordinator for Men’s Basketball Officials.
Lewis’ tenure will begin on June 1.
“I couldn’t be more excited to bring Eric Lewis on board as our Coordinator of Men’s Basketball Officials,” MEAC Commissioner Sonja Stills said. “To have someone with ties to the conference and with the sterling resume Eric possesses to come aboard will be a tremendous asset for our league and how our men’s basketball games are officiated.”
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