When and where was Norm Drucker born?
Norm Drucker entered the world on the 4th of July 1920 in New York City. He grew up in Brooklyn and attended Erasmus Hall High School in Flatbush starting in 1937.
Questions about Norm Drucker
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What were the salary details for Norm Drucker when he joined the ABA in 1969?
His total salary as a referee and Supervisor of Officials included a $25,000 signing bonus which made him the highest paid referee in basketball history at that time. This amount was more than double the average NBA player's salary in 1969 which stood at $35,000.
How did Norm Drucker eject Wilt Chamberlain from an NBA game?
He called three technical fouls on Chamberlain on the 3rd of January 1962 after Chamberlain claimed fellow referee Earl Strom must be betting on the game. This ejection marked the only time in 14 years that Chamberlain was disqualified from an NBA game whether by personal fouls or technical fouls.
Why was Norm Drucker involved in dangerous incidents during his refereeing career?
The environment for officials was dangerous during this era with security remaining lax as late as 1964. On the 24th of February 1964 in Los Angeles Drucker was mauled and kicked as he left the dressing room at halftime yet continued playing despite the injuries.
What major changes to officiating did Norm Drucker implement as NBA Supervisor of Officials?
Norm Drucker publicly advocated the adoption of the ABA's three-point basket which the league adopted in 1979. He also pushed for the use of three referees per game which the league adopted for the 1978, 79 season and created the first formal pro basketball referee training program when the NBA contracted with the Continental Basketball Association.