Tony Brown Net Worth: How Rich Was Veteran NBA Referee Who Died Of Cancer

Longtime NBA referee Tony Brown passed away at the age of 55, after over a year of being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

One of the NBA's most acclaimed officials, Brown entered hospice care in the days before his death, his family said. Brown is survived by his wife, Tina Taylor-Brown, and their children Bailey, Basile and Baylen.

"We are and have been sustained by the consistent outpouring of love and support through this journey in developing strength, acceptance and peace," Brown's family said in a statement. "We ask that you join us in that spirit as we prepare to celebrate Tony's life. Our biggest thank you to our village of family and friends, near and far, old and new. Your love is immeasurable."

In 20 seasons, Brown officiated 1,110 regular-season games and 35 playoffs. He also debuted in the 2019-20 season as an NBA Finals referee.

Listed as one of the top 10 highest-paid NBA Referees in the 2021-22 season, Brown was paid $7,000 per match, according to SportsUnfold.

The veteran official's net worth is between $3 million to $5 million, Pimiso reported.

The Florida native played basketball in high school and accepted a scholarship to Florida A&M but later transferred to Clark Atlanta University. He graduated with a degree in finance.

Brown was diagnosed with Stage 4 pancreatic cancer in April 2021.

"I haven't had time to sit around and be like 'Why me?' or 'What am I going to do?'" he told AP News earlier this year about his diagnosis. "Me not fighting would have made me feel like I was letting people down. What kind of example was I going to be to my kids if I just laid in this bed and let it overtake me? I had to show my kids that there's nothing in life that you can't challenge and overcome if you have a positive mindset."

Following his passing, the Brown family is encouraging fans and wellwishers to donate to the Tony Brown Basketball Scholarship Endowment at Clark Atlanta University to honor his death.

"Tony Brown was one of the most accomplished referees in the NBA and an inspiration to his colleagues," NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement. "After his pancreatic cancer diagnosis early last year, Tony fought courageously through countless rounds of treatment to return to work this past season at the NBA Replay Center, demonstrating the dedication, determination and passion that made him such a highly respected official for 20 years."