[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E686]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   PAYING TRIBUTE TO MR. DANNY CRAWFORD, AN OUTSTANDING PROFESSIONAL 
                  BASKETBALL OFFICIAL AND HERO TO MANY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DANNY K. DAVIS

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 14, 2026

  Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Mr. 
Danny Crawford, who is recognized as being one of the most accomplished 
and respected basketball officials in the history of professional 
sports, having dedicated more than three decades to officiating the 
highest level of competition in the National Basketball Association.
  Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. Crawford has exemplified 
integrity, professionalism, fairness, and an unwavering commitment to 
excellence, earning the admiration of players, coaches, fellow 
officials, and basketball fans throughout the United States and around 
the world.
  Beginning his NBA officiating career in 1985, Danny Crawford 
officiated over 2,000 regular season games, more than 300 playoff 
games, and 30 NBA Finals games, distinguishing himself as one of the 
league's most trusted and elite officials.
  Danny's steady leadership and exceptional judgment on the court 
helped uphold the integrity of the most memorable moments in basketball 
history, contributing immeasurably to the success and global popularity 
of the National Basketball Association. In addition to his professional 
accomplishments, Mr. Crawford has served as a mentor and role model to 
generations of officials and young athletes, demonstrating that 
discipline, humility, and dedication are the hallmarks of true 
greatness.
  As a proud native of Chicago, Illinois, Mr. Crawford has brought 
honor and distinction to his hometown and continues to inspire future 
generations through his enduring legacy of service, leadership and 
legacy. As the U.S. Representative of the 7th District of Illinois, I 
take this moment to acknowledge Mr. Danny Crawford as a living legend 
in recognition of his remarkable career as an NBA official, and thank 
him for his enduring contributions to the sport of basketball and 
lifelong commitment to excellence.
  I believe in giving honor when and where honor is due.

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