Nothing like walking into the college gym on game night. The band’s blaring, the crowd’s already on its feet, and you’re the one in stripes who’s expected to keep it all under control. No pressure, right?

So in this article, we’ll give you the rundown on everything college basketball referee gear; NCAA standards, gear must-haves, and the bag to carry it all.

1. Whistles: Your Voice (Literally)

Your whistle is the most important piece of plastic you’ll ever own. It has to cut through marching bands, screaming fans, and coaches who insist they “never touched him.” The Fox 40 Classic is a go-to for a reason—it’s loud, clear, and dependable. And yes, always carry a backup. There’s no graceful way to pantomime a technical foul.

2. Stripes That Mean Business

Let’s talk uniforms. At the college level, looking sharp isn’t optional—it’s expected. Baggy, sweat-stained shirts are a hard no. Go for an athletic fit that breathes, holds up under pressure, and meets NCAA standards. Stock up on at least two shirts (because doubleheaders happen), a solid pair of pants with room for your game card, and a couple of base layers that keep you cool in those overheated gyms.

Pro tip: When you look the part, people assume you know what you’re doing—even before the first call.

3. Shoes: Don’t Skimp Here

If you invest in one thing, make it your shoes. You’ll cover miles every game, and your knees will let you know if you cheaped out. Look for:

• All-black, lightweight kicks (style points count).
• Cushioning that makes back-to-back games doable.
• Traction that won’t have you doing the splits at midcourt.

Plenty of refs swear by models from Nike, Asics, or New Balance—but whatever you choose, make sure they’re built for long days on hardwood.

4. The Small Stuff That Makes a Big Difference

Sometimes it’s the little things that save your night. Don’t forget:

• Wrist lanyard or finger grip for your whistle.
• A solid stopwatch or ref-friendly watch.
• Game card and pencil (because relying on memory? Not smart).
• Extra socks and a towel—thank us later.

Throw in a down indicator if you’re a multi-sport official. Your brain will thank you during crossover season.

5. Backup Plans & Bandaids

Stuff happens—blisters, sore joints, mystery floor burns from that one dive-happy guard. A few extras can keep you going:

• Compression sleeves or braces for those “just in case” days.
• Blister pads and band-aids.
• An extra whistle (seriously, we’re not dropping this one).

6. The Bag to Carry It All

Finally, the unsung hero: your gear bag. You’ll want something roomy, tough, and organized enough to keep your clean shirt separate from your postgame shoes. College refs travel a lot—you don’t want to be wrestling with a busted zipper in an airport security line.

Final Buzzer

Stepping up to college basketball means stepping up your gear game. Sharp uniforms, cushioned shoes, a reliable whistle, and a bag full of smart accessories don’t just make you look professional—they make the job easier, so you can focus on what really matters: getting the call right.