March 1998
Violet Palmer and Dee Kantner made history when they were hired to the NBA staff. The story of how they broke the gender barrier also uncovered some leftover male chauvinism.
While NBA referee Ed T. Rush praised Palmer and Kantner’s skills, CBA official Michael Glass said male colleagues who were passed over in favor of the women were victims of reverse discrimination.
For historical perspective, former umpires Chris Wren, Theresa Cox and Pam Postema, who did not reach the majors, recounted the roadblocks they faced when trying to reach the top of the ladder.
Barry Mano’s photo of Kantner juxtaposed with the Chicago Bulls dance team appeared on the cover and was selected for inclusion in an exhibit at the Smithsonian.
- 1990s
