Bonner, Burns, Reneau make history as first women referees at men’s World Cup

MANILA (Philippines) - History is being made at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 as Amy Bonner, Blanca Burns and Jenna Reneau have become the first women referees to officiate games at a men's World Cup.

Today, it's not rare to see women referees calling men's games in leagues around the world. But this trio breaks new ground.

"I am honored and blessed to be at the World Cup," said Reneau, who has called games in Jakarta. "Being the first with Amy Bonner and Blanca Burns is amazing, and I am glad to know that there are many more women who will come and work alongside us in the future."

Amy Bonner

Burns, who is officiating games in Okinawa, added: "I don't think it has hit me yet. Honestly I have been so focused on taking it one day at a time."

And Bonner, who is calling games in Okinawa offered: "Being here has made the years of effort, the grind, the battles won and lost, the ups and downs totally worth it."

Bonner, a veteran referee with 18 years of FIBA experience, recognized those women who came before her.

"So many unrecognized people started the process years ago so that we have this opportunity today. The biggest pressure I feel at this point in my career is to perform well so these doors remain open and everyone accepts women as competent, confident referees capable of performing at any level," she said.

Blanca Burns

None of the trio believe their gender has had any impact on the way players and coaches interact with them.

"Players and coaches want the game to be called fairly and accurately, I really don't think they care at all if it's a man or woman making the call," said Bonner.

Reneau, who has four years of FIBA experience, did recall one fond experience in terms of her gender.

"The only remark I received about my gender was from a player that acknowledged that I was the first woman to officiate his game, and he expressed to me that it was an honor and said congratulations on being here. That was a remarkable moment," she said.

Jenna Reneau

“All referees at the World Cup were selected after a year of scouting and preparation", explains Carl Jungebrand, head of refereeing at FIBA. "The key focus was to have the best referees, nothing more nothing less. Amy, Jenna and Blanca fulfilled that condition any given day.”

Bonner, Burns and Reneau all hope they can be seen as role models or even an inspiration for other women to follow.

"I want to encourage young girls to find their passion and pursue their dreams however big. If there isn't a path, make one. Put in the work, know it won't always be easy but don't be discouraged by setbacks," said Bonner.

"If you aspire to be a referee then don't let anything hold you back. Believe in yourself and I'll believe in you too. I know it's possible," added Burns, who had two years of FIBA experience.

And Reneau said: "I am thrilled to see this next generation of women officials work and will be routing them on."

And fans across the globe will continue to cheer on the World Cup - but this time, with women referees on the stage.

FIBA