Bill Kennedy, veteran NBA referee, has revealed that he is homosexual.
The revelation comes amidst a row between Kennedy and Sacramento Kings guard, Rajon Rondo.
Rondo was reported to have confronted the referee for ejecting him on two technical fouls in a game against the Celtics on December 3.
The National Basketball Association (NBA) described Rondo’s statement as a “derogatory and offensive term”
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The player apologised for his outburst via twitter, he wrote: “My actions during the game were out of frustration and emotion, period!
“They absolutely do not reflect my feelings toward the LGBT community. I did not mean to offend or disrespect anyone.’’
Kennedy, who is officiating in his 18th career season, disclosed his sexuality to US media afterwards.
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“I am proud to be an N.B.A. referee and I am proud to be a gay man,” he said.
“I am following in the footsteps of others who have self-identified in the hopes that will send a message to young men and women in sports that you must allow no one to make you feel ashamed of who you are.”
He has been congratulated for his “decision to live his life proudly and openly” by NBA commissioner, Adam Silver.
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