April 7, 2025
The Australian basketball community is in mourning following the passing of John Holden, one of the most influential figures in Australian basketball officiating history, who died yesterday at the age of 85.
John made his first significant mark on basketball history in 1960 when he founded the Referee's Association at Frankston, establishing what would become the foundation of his lifelong commitment to the sport. His passion for developing officiating excellence saw him take on the role of referees coach in 1965, a position he embraced with increasing intensity after retiring as an active referee.
John's international career spanned four Olympic Games (1968, 1972, 1976, and 1980), six Oceania qualification tournaments, and the 1978 World Championships in the Philippines. On home soil, he officiated 89 NBL matches between 1979 and 1984, helping establish the professionalism and quality of officiating that would become hallmarks of Australia's premier basketball competition.
Among his many significant contributions was his dedication to developing the next generation of officials. He served as Victorian Country Grading Officer and held advisory roles with associations like Southern Peninsula Basketball, which cemented his reputation as a leader in Australian basketball circles.
John's excellence was recognised with life memberships across five separate basketball associations throughout Victoria, including the Frankston Referees Association, Frankston Basketball Association, Victorian Police Basketball Association, Victorian Basketball Referees Association, and Southern Peninsula Basketball Association. He was named an Honorary Life Referee of FIBA, basketball's international governing body a distinction highlighting his global impact.
In 2006, John's contributions were immortalised with his induction into the Basketball Australia Hall of Fame as a Technical Official, and in 2011, he received Life Membership from Basketball Victoria.
In his later years, despite experiencing health challenges, John remained a guiding presence for many in the refereeing community. His philosophies continue to influence officiating methodologies across the country, ensuring his legacy will endure for generations to come.
As Australia says goodbye to one of its most respected figures in basketball, we reflect on a career that shaped the game over more than sixty years. While John has stepped away from the court, the impact of his leadership, mentorship, and commitment to excellence will continue to be felt throughout the basketball community for years to come.
John is survived by his family, and a basketball community forever grateful for his contributions to the sport they love.
