Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Is NBA Referee Bill Kennedy Out for the Season After Leg Injury?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Angelo Guinhawa | Last updated Jan 11, 2026 8:49 AM ET

Bill Kennedy is one of the most popular and recognizable NBA referees today. His explanations on coach's challenges have drawn attention several times this season, with Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla even saying recently that he made a challenge just to hear the official deliver a verdict.

Golden State Warriors star Steph Curry was also seen laughing while listening to Kennedy's challenge verdict during a game.

Unfortunately for fans, Kennedy won't be officiating an NBA game any time soon after he sustained an injury during Friday's showdown between the Orlando Magic and the Philadelphia 76ers.

While running during an offensive play by the 76ers late in the first quarter, Kennedy was seen grabbing his right leg before limping to the sideline. After the game was paused, Kennedy was seen being taken off the court in a wheelchair.

NBA referee Bill Kennedy while officiating a game.Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The NBA Official page announced moments later that Kennedy was out for the rest of the game due to a "right leg injury" and that referees James Williams and Michael Smith would continue handling the officiating duties.

Bill Kennedy Injury Update

On Saturday, more updates about Kennedy's injury and status emerged. According to Chris Haynes of NBA on Prime, the 59-year-old referee suffered a hamstring strain and "will be sidelined indefinitely."

Fortunately, Kennedy has not been totally ruled out for the season. Haynes shared that "the hope is he can return before the regular season ends."

Longtime NBA referee Bill Kennedy will be sidelined indefinitely after suffering a hamstring strain at last night’s game in Orlando, but the hope is he can return before the regular season ends, league sources tell @NBAonPrime, @NBATV. pic.twitter.com/1gEP64vHMx
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) January 10, 2026