In the fast-paced and competitive world of basketball, few individuals possess the skill, composure, and expertise required to officiate at every level of the game. Don Thorne has risen through the ranks, establishing himself as a highly respected referee across local, provincial, national, and international courts. With a career spanning most of his adult life, he has not only honed his craft in gyms and arenas around the world, but has also become a trusted figure in the basketball community. As the current president of the International Association of Approved Basketball Officials (IAABO), Don leads the world’s largest organization dedicated to the education and development of basketball officials, representing over 13,000 members. His journey from officiating local games to the international stage reflects his deep knowledge of basketball and his dedication to fostering a new generation of referees. Through his leadership, the IAABO continues to set the standard for excellence and integrity in basketball officiating worldwide.
Don has been deeply immersed in basketball for more than 40 years. During this time, he has been a member of the Ontario Association of Basketball Officials (OABA) and in 2010 received the OABA Award of Merit. Nationally, Don was the recipient of the Canada Basketball ‘Wink Willox Award’ in 2022. Being a good floor official is the basis for both awards, as well as registering significant a length of service to the sport of basketball. Don is a FIBA-certified Shot Clock Operator, currently working the clock for Raptors905 and the NCAA’s Naismith Classic.
As a mentor, Don’s expertise and knowledge have influenced and guided officials at the highest levels of high school, college, and university basketball. He has supervised OFSSA, OCAA, and OUA tournaments. There are countless officials at these levels of basketball who Don has had a positive effect. His dedication to shaping and supporting the next generation of officials has earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues worldwide, solidifying his role as a key figure in the growth and development of basketball officiating
On Saturday, October 19, 2024, the Collingwood Sports Hall of Fame welcomed Don Thorne as an enshrined member of Collingwood sporting history.