For years, the National Basketball Association (NBA) has been a stage where players, coaches, and referees, through their display, communicate their significance in the history of basketball. Among the outstanding figures of the officiating group is Natalie Sago. The ref, famous for her composure and the ability to make sharp decisions, is a pioneer in the league where female referees are mostly absent. Now, let’s get closer to her fascinating story, i.e. from early roots in Missouri to a distinguished position as an NBA official.

Who is Natalie Sago? How long has she been a referee in the NBA?

Referee Natalie Sago (pronounced SAY-go) has made an impressive impact during her tenure as an NBA official. She has been part of 230+ games, proving beyond doubt that she can deal with the game’s most intense moments with confidence and composure.

Sago’s credentials include officiating marquee events like the 2022 NBA Rising Stars game and All-Star Saturday Night in Cleveland. These assignments are reserved for top-performing officials, highlighting the respect she’s earned in the hoops community.

Before her NBA career, Sago officiated in the G League for four seasons. Moreover, in addition to her WNBA stint, which lasted three more seasons, she proved her flexibility and expertise in working with pro basketball players at different levels. Among her most remarkable assignments was overseeing the NBA G League International Challenge, which was part of NBA All-Star 2018 in LA.

Sago’s journey to the NBA included three years of collegiate officiating experience in conferences like the Atlantic 10, Missouri Valley, Summit League, and Metro Atlantic Athletic. She also spent two years officiating high school basketball in her native Missouri, showcasing her dedication to the craft from the very beginning.

Which University did Natalie Sago attend? Was she a professional basketball player?

Natalie Sago’s passion for sports has been a driving force ever since she was a young girl in Farmington, Missouri. During her school years, she was a member of a basketball team that went on to the state championship Finals in Missouri. After finishing as a runner-up, the athlete’s aspirations were not just limited to basketball.

In college, Natalie Sago shifted to softball, playing for Jefferson College from 2007 to 2009 before transferring to Drury University, where she continued to excel from 2009 to 2011. Her leadership qualities stood out, as she served as team captain for both.

Sago completed her education at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in K-12 Physical Education in 2013. Her academic background reflects her lifelong commitment to sports and physical fitness!

She didn’t become a pro basketball player, but her athletic background meant she knew the game intimately — an invaluable qualification for a ref. She also has two mini Aussiedoodles—Bogey and Divot—who, as you might’ve expected, take their cue from her feisty occupation.

Who Is Natalie Sago’s father? Was he a referee too?

Officiating seems to run in the Sago family! Natalie’s father, Dr. Shelton Sago, was a well-respected basketball official for 35 years under the Missouri State High School Activities Association. His extensive career undoubtedly influenced Natalie’s decision to step into the world of refereeing.

Dr. Sago retired from officiating in 2019 but hasn’t entirely left the whistle behind. He continues to officiate high school football, further exemplifying the family’s deep connection to sports officiating.

The bond between Natalie Sago and her father extends beyond the court. His career likely provided her with firsthand insights into the demands and rewards of officiating, helping shape her path to becoming one of the NBA’s standout refs, one of the 8% female officials!

Natalie Sago’s climb in the NBA ranks is a noteworthy reminder of the advent of women in an otherwise predominantly male sport. Her story is a strong testament to the idea of hard work, patience, and a real passion. Her skill, dedication, and professionalism are reasons why she’s the sparkle in the eyes of uncountable young women, who want to shatter walls in the world of sport!

As she referees some of the league’s most critical games, Natalie Sago shows she’s not only level with the competition, but she’s running past it and pioneering a whole new standard! Whether it’s her ability to stay composed under pressure or her remarkable basketball knowledge, one thing is certain: Natalie Sago is making huge waves in the NBA, and this is just the beginning.