SEC Suspends Two Referees for Three Weeks Following Controversial Maryland-Ohio State Game
COLUMBUS, OH – The Southeastern Conference (SEC) announced today the conclusion of its investigation into the officiating of the March 2nd, 2025, women’s basketball game between the Maryland and the Ohio State Buckeyes. The investigation resulted in three-week suspensions for two referees involved in the contest, which Maryland won 93-90.
The SEC’s findings, released late yesterday, detailed several critical officiating errors that significantly impacted the game’s outcome. While the specific details of the errors remain undisclosed to protect the integrity of the review process, sources indicate that multiple questionable calls and non-calls during crucial moments of the game were cited in the report. These errors sparked significant controversy and widespread criticism from Ohio State fans, coaches, and analysts alike.
The three-week suspensions represent a significant disciplinary action, underscoring the SEC’s commitment to ensuring fair and impartial officiating in all conference games. The length of the suspensions reflects the severity of the officiating errors and their potential impact on the outcome of the closely contested game. The suspensions will prevent the two referees from officiating any SEC games during that period.
The controversy surrounding the game has fueled intense debate within the college basketball community. Many commentators and fans have criticized the officiating, arguing that the questionable calls unfairly influenced the outcome of the contest. The SEC’s decision to address the controversy through the suspension of the referees aims to restore confidence in the integrity of officiating within the SEC.
The SEC’s thorough investigation and subsequent disciplinary action demonstrate a commitment to accountability and transparency. While the specific details of the officiating errors remain confidential, the suspensions serve as a clear message that officiating errors will not be tolerated. The SEC’s response aims to prevent similar controversies from occurring in future games, ensuring that all games are officiated fairly and impartially. The three-week suspension period will allow time for a comprehensive review of officiating protocols and the implementation of measures to improve the quality of officiating in future SEC games.
