NCAA explains curious circumstances behind pulling ref from women’s tourney mid-game

The NCAA had an egg on its face after pulling a referee mid-game during the first round of the women's tournament due to a potential conflict of interest. However, the explanation only makes things look worse. According to a statement, the NCAA replaced Tommi Paris due to a background dispute that, "if known," would have prevented her from being selected to officiate the game. Referee Tommi Paris did not work the second half of NC State’s win over Chattanooga. Turns out, she has a masters degree from University of Tennessee—Chattanooga. pic.twitter.com/87iefFrxAh — Ethan McDowell (@ethanmmcdowell) March 23, 2024 On the...