Haywoode Workman, American basketball player and referee

Haywoode Workman: From NBA Player to Esteemed Referee

Haywoode Wilvon Workman, born on January 23, 1966, is a notable figure in professional basketball, uniquely transitioning from a distinguished playing career to an accomplished tenure as a referee in the National Basketball Association (NBA).

An NBA Playing Career Defined by Grit and Playmaking

Standing at 6'2" (approximately 188 cm), Workman primarily operated as a point guard, a crucial position responsible for orchestrating offensive plays, ball-handling, and directing teammates on the court. His stature, while not exceptionally tall for an NBA player, was well-suited for the quickness, agility, and court vision required of a lead guard.

Over eight seasons in the NBA, spanning from 1989 to 2000, Workman played a total of 359 regular-season games for five different franchises. These teams included the Atlanta Hawks, Indiana Pacers, Milwaukee Bucks, Washington Wizards, and Toronto Raptors. His statistical averages across these seasons underscore his role as a consistent and reliable contributor: he averaged 5.5 points, 3.9 assists, 2.3 rebounds, and 1 steal in 20.1 minutes per game. These numbers reflect his value as a solid facilitator and defensive presence, capable of impacting games through his all-around effort rather than solely scoring.

Beyond the regular season, Workman also showcased his abilities on the grander stage of the NBA Playoffs, appearing in 41 career postseason games. In these high-stakes matchups, his performance slightly elevated, averaging 5.9 points, 4.2 assists, and 2.2 rebounds per game. Participation in the playoffs signifies a player's contribution to competitive teams, indicating his reliability and effectiveness when the pressure was highest.

The Uncommon Transition: From Court General to Arbiter of the Game

What truly sets Haywoode Workman apart is his successful pivot from playing in the NBA to officiating games at the highest level of professional basketball. This transition is relatively rare, with only a handful of former players achieving the rigorous certification and consistent performance required to become an NBA referee.

Workman commenced his officiating career in the NBA during the 2006-07 season, bringing a unique perspective to the role derived from his own playing experience. As an NBA referee, he is entrusted with enforcing the rules of the game, ensuring fair play, managing game flow, and making critical decisions under immense pressure. This requires an in-depth understanding of the rulebook, impeccable judgment, and strong communication skills.

Frequently Asked Questions About Haywoode Workman

When was Haywoode Workman born?

Haywoode Wilvon Workman was born on January 23, 1966.

What position did Haywoode Workman play in the NBA?

He played the point guard position, a key role in orchestrating offensive plays.

How many seasons did Haywoode Workman play in the NBA?

He played for eight seasons, from 1989 to 2000.

Which NBA teams did Haywoode Workman play for?

Workman played for five teams: the Atlanta Hawks, Indiana Pacers, Milwaukee Bucks, Washington Wizards, and Toronto Raptors.

What are Haywoode Workman's career NBA averages as a player?

In 359 regular-season games, he averaged 5.5 points, 3.9 assists, 2.3 rebounds, and 1 steal per game.

Is Haywoode Workman currently involved in the NBA?

Yes, he currently serves as a referee in the National Basketball Association, a role he officially began in the 2006-07 season.