Every great NBA referee has a solid support network, and for veteran official J.T. Orr, his wife, Tanya Orr, provides that steadfast backing.
She has been his pillar of support off the court, although he has gained recognition on the court for his professionalism and fairness.
Recently, J.T. has been in the spotlight for ejecting the Los Angeles Lakers’ star player Luka Dončić, which cost them their match against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
He thought Luka’s comment to a fan named Jeremy Price in the Oklahoma City stands referred to him and whistled for his second technical foul.
I’ve never got a fan ejected ever, but if you talk I’m gonna talk back. It had nothing to do with the ref.
Luka Dončić
The Lakers were clinging to a 109-108 lead when Luka was ejected, but their composure changed from there. The Thunder seized the opportunity, closing the game on a dominant 28-11 run to secure a 136-120 victory.
The loss deals a significant blow to Los Angeles’s hopes of climbing the Western Conference standings, where every game matters in the tightly contested playoff race.
During the game within the game, I mentioned that he was short and missed it. He turned around and shot an explicative [sic] back, and J.T. [Orr] happened to see it. At that point, I T’d him up.
Jeremy Price
J.T. Orr And His Wife, Tanya, Have Been Together Since 2002
J.T. Orr often discusses the job’s challenges, extensive travel, intense scrutiny, and the pressure to make split-second decisions.
Through it all, his wife, Tanya, has been his steadfast partner, managing their household and ensuring stability for their family while he is on the road.
JT Orr @NBAOfficial https://t.co/ngmgLzPCPR pic.twitter.com/IZvyVYzKyd
— Ralph Mason (@Ralph_MasonJr) April 9, 2025
The married couple prioritizes family, and Tanya plays a crucial role in maintaining that balance. Her dedication allows him to focus on his career without distraction.
NBA referees often face criticism from fans and media, but having a supportive spouse makes a significant difference.
Tanya’s encouragement helps him stay grounded, reminding him of what truly matters beyond the game. Her presence at games and understanding of his profession’s demands highlight the strength of their partnership.
While J.T.’s name is known in NBA circles, Tanya’s role behind the scenes is just as vital. Her support is a boon and the cornerstone of his success.
Her commitment to their family and her unwavering support for his career exemplify the importance of a strong partnership in the high-pressure world of professional sports officiating.
Face only a mother could love https://t.co/Pur2duXABk
— Tuck (@NewAgeKiing) April 9, 2025
The married couple doesn’t seem to have any biological children, but they have previously opened their doors to foster children. They have a foster son and two adopted daughters.
J.T. Orr’s Journey From Foster Care To NBA
An experienced NBA referee, J.T. Orr, began his career working with abused and neglected children in the foster care system.
He spent 12 years as a foster carer before becoming a third-generation realtor in La Verne, California. He has been personally involved in real estate since 1999 and professionally licensed since 2006.
J.T. loved working for a smaller real estate company such as Forefront, which worked diligently to emphasize personal relationships with clients.
He had 19 years of experience as a realtor before transitioning his career into the NBA.
Afterward, he became an experienced NBA referee, officiating over 595 regular-season games during his 13 seasons as an NBA staff official.
His career includes five seasons in the NBA G League and 13 years of collegiate officiating in conferences such as the Pac-12, West Coast, and Big West.
He also officiated the 2011 NCAA Tournament and spent eight years as a high school referee in Southern California.
I’ve been fortunate to maintain a steady stream of clients through family, friends, and referrals over the years. If I can be of any assistance to you, feel free to contact me.
J.T. Orr
In Case You Didn’t Know
- J.T. Orr is originally from Pomona, California, and is passionate about impressionist painting.
- His most-liked-to-visit place is Greece, and his bucket list includes visiting every national park.
- His favorite television show is Yellowstone, and his favorite movie is White Men Can’t Jump.
