NBA referee Suyash Mehta on basketball: 'It really brings me a lot of joy' | ABCNL
ABC News
6 min, 36 sec
Yash Mehta shares his unique story from aspiring medical student to becoming one of the NBA's newest and first Indian American referees.
Summary
- Yash Mehta abandoned medical school to pursue a career as an NBA referee, a dream distinct from the aspirations of most young basketball enthusiasts.
- His journey began unexpectedly when an NBA scout noticed him at a high school game, leading to a tryout with the NBA Development League.
- Yash faced the challenge of convincing his Indian-American immigrant parents, who anticipated him becoming a doctor, to support his refereeing career.
- He details the rigorous routine and preparation involved in professional refereeing, highlighting the analytical accuracy and the challenges faced during games.
- His story culminates with his parents' pride and joy, underscoring their transition from hesitant supporters to passionate NBA fans.
Chapter 1
Yash Mehta's unorthodox aspiration to become an NBA referee led him to leave medical school and embark on a demanding professional path.
- Yash Mehta's dream diverged from most young basketball fans as he aimed to become an NBA referee instead of a player.
- He took a significant risk by dropping out of medical school to pursue his goal, a path that eventually led him to the NBA.
Chapter 2
Yash started refereeing to earn extra money in college and caught the attention of an NBA scout, which marked the turning point in his career.
- During college, Yash refereed intramural and high school basketball games to support himself financially.
- A chance encounter with an NBA scout at a high school game in 2013 led to an invitation to an NBA Development League tryout camp.
Chapter 3
Yash navigated difficult discussions with his family, who initially had reservations about his career choice, but ultimately supported him.
- Yash had a tough conversation with his parents, especially his father, a physician, about switching from a medical career to refereeing.
- After an initial period of skepticism, his parents became supportive of his decision as they saw his success and dedication.
Chapter 4
Yash Mehta delves into the detailed and rigorous preparations that NBA referees undergo before and during the game days.
- NBA referees engage in extensive travel, game city preparations, and meetings to discuss player tendencies and potential conflicts.
- Referees arrive at the arena well before the game to prepare and uphold the standards of the game with an analytical approach.
Chapter 5
Yash explains how referees handle in-game criticism and the high-pressure environment, maintaining professionalism and accuracy.
- Referees must diffuse tense situations and remain level-headed, despite criticisms from players and fans.
- They focus on maintaining a high standard of officiating, achieving approximately 95% accuracy in their calls.
Chapter 6
Yash reflects on his lifelong love for basketball, the pride his parents feel, and the satisfaction of achieving his dream.
- Basketball has always been a passion for Yash, idolizing players like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant growing up.
- His parents, initially hesitant, have become avid NBA fans, taking pride in Yash's accomplishments as an NBA referee.
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