Le Basketbawl

So it appears when push came to shove the NBA Referees Union may not be all that Frickin stupid after all. “ESPN.com” is reporting that a tentative deal is in place between the NBA Front Office and the union that could see the return of the real referees to the hardwood as soon as next week. According to reports the game officials may be back on the floor for the NBA Regular Season Opener.

The NBA preseason games have been officiated by replacement referees due to the fact that the regular officials are being locked out due to a contract dispute. The lockout was a result of the NBA wanting to trim $3.2 million from the referees budget. The Game Officials wanted to take a cut of only $2.5 million. Negotiations had stalled on both sides and it appeared that the lockout would continue through at least the start of the regular season.

However according to reports a meeting took place Tuesday between NBA Commissioner David Stern and union leader Lamell McMorris. Reports are stating that the two sides reached an agreement in principle and the union members will vote on the plan Friday. From all indications it looks like the vote will ratify the agreement and the veteran officials will make their return on Opening Night.

There has been no information released on what concessions have been made and which side made them. Logic would state that the Union most likely were the side that gave in however there are no current reports confirming that.