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29 June 2026  2 min read

BE Awards 2025: Steve Lallament Referee of the Year

Baker qualified as a referee in the late 1970s and has been an active official in the Wessex area ever since, continuing to give outstanding service to the game across many decades.

After retiring as a player in the early 2000s, Steve continued to referee at an exceptional level, regularly officiating over 60 local league games a season up until his 70th birthday.

Known for his clear communication, fairness and ability to manage games with authority while keeping things positive and controlled, Baker also continues to support BUCS and Academy basketball, sharing his experience with the next generation of officials.

 

 

 

 

 

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Basketball England's Delivery Manager for Officiating, Simon Unsworth, said:

"Congratulations to Steve for adding his name to one BE's most prestigious awards.

"Steve's high standards and calm approach have earned him huge respect across the basketball community, including twice being awarded the Steve Lallament Trophy as Wessex Referee of the Year — voted for by the clubs.

"This recognition reflects not only Steve’s ability as an official but also his reputation and dedication to the art of officiating."

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Baker's recognition continues a 10-day period where national recipients of the 2025 Basketball England Awards will be announced, covering work from 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2025.

Winners from across BE's 10 regions were announced across April and May, with those recipients then shortlisted to narrow down the field for each national winner.

Baker and others will be recognised for their achievements over the coming days, leading up to another cohort of selections being celebrated with their "Services to Basketball" awards on Wednesday, 1 July 2026.

Find out more about the Basketball England awards