Who Is Danny Crawford’s Wife? All You Need to Know About the Hall of Fame Referee’s Partner and Kids

Danny Crawford spent more than three decades on NBA courts, making calls in some of the most intense games in basketball history. From Michael Jordan’s last night in a Bulls jersey to LeBron James’s 2016 comeback, his whistle was part of the soundtrack. He worked more than 2,000 regular-season games and 23 straight NBA Finals before retiring in 2017. Now at 71, he is part of the Hall of Fame Class of 2025, joining stars like Carmelo Anthony and Dwight Howard. As he put it, “My life has been unbelievable. I have the greatest family, and I had the best job in the world.”

Those words give a clue to what stands behind his legacy. Crawford often mentioned how his life off the court shaped his work on it. His cool head and ability to listen came from more than just practice; they came from the people around him. That support system included his wife, who was by his side during long road trips and at ceremonies when the league honored him. As much as fans know his career stats, many are curious about the person who shared the journey with him and the family they built together.

Who is Danny Crawford?

Danny Crawford grew up in Chicago’s West Side, the middle child of nine kids. He played basketball at Cregier High School before heading to Northeastern Illinois University, where he averaged 18 points as a sophomore guard. After college, he started refereeing local games while working as a substitute teacher. By the late 1970s, he was officiating in the Missouri Valley Conference and the Continental Basketball Association. His NBA debut came in the 1984–85 season, setting the stage for a career that would span 32 years.

Crawford was promoted to crew chief before the end of his third NBA season, back when only two referees worked a game. Over his career, he worked more than 300 playoff games and 30 Finals games, including 23 straight Finals from 1995 until his retirement in 2017. His final game was Game 5 of the 2017 Finals between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors.

By then, Crawford had earned the respect of the league’s officials and players. In a 2016 LA Times survey, NBA players voted him as the best referee in the league. He was respected for his composure during tense moments, allowing players space without losing control. Coaches like Doc Rivers and players such as Pau Gasol praised Crawford for restoring order when tensions rose. His Hall of Fame induction recognizes not only his officiating achievements but also his professionalism and people skills during challenging moments.

Who is Danny Crawford’s wife?

Danny Crawford is married to Claudia Crawford, who stood by him throughout his career and after retirement. Claudia is Lithuanian, adding a unique cultural dimension to their family. She was often present at key moments, including the 2017 celebration honoring Crawford’s 32 years of NBA service. Photographs of Claudia alongside Danny and their daughter Lia highlight how central family has been in his life.

In 1993, the Crawfords moved from Evanston to Naperville, Illinois, establishing a home base to support their family as Danny traveled extensively during the NBA season. This move helped provide stability for their children while allowing Danny to balance his professional and family responsibilities.

The Crawfords still consider Naperville home, though they travel often, including trips to Australia, New Zealand, and Israel. Post-retirement, Danny has taken up golf and enjoys playing regularly around the western suburbs. They also frequently visit their son Drew, who plays professional basketball overseas, most recently in the Israeli Basketball Premier League. Claudia’s role, while less visible publicly, has been central in supporting Danny’s ability to juggle the pressures of officiating with family life.

Does Danny Crawford have children?

Danny and Claudia have two children, Drew and Lia. Both played key roles in encouraging their father’s Hall of Fame nomination. Danny initially opposed the idea of induction, but Lia convinced him by emphasizing the legacy it would leave for their family. “She said, ‘Daddy, it’s not about you. It’s about your legacy that your family can go to forever. To know about their granddad,” Danny recalled, a moment that moved him deeply.

Drew pursued basketball, becoming a standout at Naperville Central High School, winning two conference Player of the Year awards. He played collegiately at Northwestern (2009-2014), then went on to a professional basketball career in Europe, winning an MVP award in Italy in 2019. He currently plays in Israel, where his parents recently welcomed their first grandchild, Jayden.

Lia has also been a strong supporter throughout Danny’s career and retirement. She attended his retirement party and was present during the Hall of Fame celebrations. Together, Drew and Lia’s encouragement helped shape the narrative of Danny’s legacy, reminding him and the public of the importance of his contributions both on and off the court.