Official business

Ref under investigation for posing with LeBron James

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) -- A referee is under investigation after he posed for a photograph on the court with high school star LeBron James following a tournament game last weekend.

The president of the central New Jersey chapter of the International Association of Approved Basketball Officials confirmed Tuesday the organization is investigating the actions of referee Tony Celantano.

James, expected to be the No. 1 pick in the NBA Draft, posed with his right arm draped around Celantano's shoulder. A slight grin is on James' face.

"We're just trying to sort out all the facts," said Fred Dumont, the organization's president.

While no written rule was violated, it is accepted practice that officials do not pose for pictures with players, Dumont said. He said he spoke with Celantano, who concluded he should have shown better judgment.

Dumont expects a ruling in two days to a week. He declined to specify what sanctions could be imposed. Celantano, 27-year veteran, remains eligible to officiate, Dumont said.

Celantano told The Times of Trenton the photo was taken by a relative and was not for personal use. After officiating another high school game Sunday, Celantano told the newspaper he sought an autograph from James for a friend's child.

 

Related information

Stories

Phil Taylor: Let's clear the Air Week at a Glance: Trade winds just hot air Marty Burns: Jordan appreciates the moment

Multimedia

Visit Video Plus for the latest audio and video