Costas Rigas started as a basketball
player with 1st Greek division club.
Later he became a coach and a referee in
the same time. In 1974 Mr. Rigas decided
to follow his referee career only.
1977 – Mr. Rigas became an International
referee
1992 – He finished his ref career at
Barcelona Olympics
Costas Rigas officiated big
finals and he is very happy and proud to
choose the refereeing road which is not
easy but as he said: “You are dealing
only with yourself. Not with the
presidents of the clubs, not with
players, fans, media could fire you as
it happens with coach job.”
Among the 23 big finals officiated we
have to mention the Los Angeles Olympic
Games Men’s Final in 1984 and Barcelona
Olympics Women’s Final in 1992.
He also officiated World Championships
Final in 1996. European Championships
Finals in 1985 and 1991.
Club's Champions finals “Korac Cup” four
times and Intercontinental Final,
America's Final twice and the first
MacDonald final in Milwaukee and other
Zones Championships Finals.
He decided to finish 2 years earlier
than the limit says, becoming the first
General Director of the Professional
League in Greece while at the same time
he was FIBA commissioner and National
Instructor.
With the unanimous decision of the clubs
Costas Rigas became Director of the
Euroleague referees on 2000 when the new
organization was established.
This year Costas was nominated as one
of the best referees of all times CHECK HERE !!!