NBA official James Williams to replace Sean Wright as umpire for Game 5

First-time Finals referee Sean Wright is unable to officiate tonight's Game 5 of the NBA Finals due to the League's Health and Safety Protocols

From NBA.com News Services

July 18, 2021 12:35 AM

Sean Wright, a 16-year NBA veteran referee, is unable to officiate Saturday’s Game 5 of the NBA Finals due to the NBA’s Health and Safety Protocols. Replacing Wright is NBA official James Williams, who will serve in the role of the umpire.

NBA official James Williams will serve in the role of the umpire for tonight’s Game 5 of the NBA Finals, replacing Sean Wright, who is unable to officiate due to the league’s health and safety protocols.

— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) July 17, 2021

The Bucks have been dealing with Thanasis Antetokounmpo entering the League’s Health and Safety Protocols, and Milwaukee coach Mike Budenholzer said pregame the team will be without its full staff, per a report from ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.