“I'm crying cause he really looks like he should have been a ref”, “He looks legit hire this man so he can ruin legacies” - Fans react to Richard Jefferson’s refereeing debut at Summer League 

Former NBA champion Richard Jefferson refereed Monday's Summer League game between the New York Knicks and Portland Trail Blazers. He took charge in the second quarter.

The ESPN broadcaster cited multiple reasons for his switch to officiating. Here's what he tweeted:

"Why do this? 1. Tremendous amount of knowledge about our game that I’ve learned sitting in classes with the best refs in the world.

2. I do this because not many people would dare put themselves in this position. The more info I have the more informed I am as a broadcaster."

Richard Jefferson sent fans into a frenzy when he walked out of the tunnel in the referee's uniform. According to many, Jefferson resembled a regular NBA referee.

One fan wrote:

“I'm crying cause he really look like he shoulda been a ref.”

Another added:

“He looks legit lol hire this man so he can ruin legacies.”

Here are some of the best reactions to Richard Jefferson's debut as a referee:

Richard Jefferson has far from perfect debut, aims to make a comeback next year

Richard Jefferson didn't have an easy foray into the world of officiating. His first call was overturned by another official. Jefferson ruled an out-of-bounds ball in favor of the New York Knicks, when it should've gone tp the Portland Trail Blazers.

Jefferson then missed out on calling a made 3-point shot. He admitted his mistake and had a smoother time making calls after those two incidents.

Jefferson seems to have enjoyed his time as an official. He appeared at the announcer's table to discuss his experience, saying he would love to return to the Summer League next year and attend the officiating class.

"I will come back to Summer League next year and go to class," he said.