Updated

The NBA has named Mike Bantom as its executive vice president in charge of referee operations.

Bantom, a former NBA player and long-time league executive, will oversee the officiating program as it relates to recruiting, training and development of all NBA officials.

"Mike has been an invaluable part of the NBA for over 20 years and has excelled in leadership positions across both our domestic and international businesses," said NBA commissioner David Stern in a statement. "That experience, together with his considerable accomplishments on the court and his respect in the basketball community, make Mike an outstanding choice to lead the NBA's officiating program."

Bantom had served as the NBA's senior vice president of player development since 1999, directing player programs that included rookie transition and substance-abuse.

A member of the 1972 U.S. Olympic basketball team, Bantom averaged 12.1 points and 6.4 rebounds in a nine-year NBA playing career. He became an NBA executive in 1989.