An NCAA referee was pulled from a women’s tournament game at halftime due to a background conflict, replaced by another referee. The referee, Tommi Paris, had a master’s degree from Chattanooga which wasn’t disclosed, prompting the switch.
Key Points
NCAA referee Tommi Paris pulled from game due to undisclosed background conflict
Referee replaced by Angelica Suffren at halftime
NCAA requires referees to disclose any affiliations with schools in the tournament field to avoid conflicts
Pros
Prompt action taken by the NCAA to address the conflict
Maintaining fairness and neutrality in officiating
Cons
Lack of disclosure by the referee regarding her affiliation with one of the schools in the tournament