QueenVee
Unapologetically powerful. Endlessly iconic. A force of nature who transforms every room she enters into her stage.
"I didn't just put my little foot through the door. I kicked the damn thing over."
In 1997, Violet Palmer stepped onto an NBA court and changed sports history forever — not by asking permission, but by earning her place through an undeniable standard of excellence.
— Queen Vee
The Woman Who
Changed the Game
On October 31, 1997, Violet Palmer became the first woman to officiate a regular-season NBA game. The moment was historic — but for Violet, it was simply the result of years of relentless preparation, unwavering standards, and the refusal to accept that gender was a barrier to excellence.
In nearly two decades, she never asked to be treated differently. She asked only to be judged by the same standard as every other official on the floor — and she met that standard every single time. Nine hundred and thirty regular season games. Nine playoff games. The 2014 NBA All-Star Game. A career that speaks for itself.
A Legacy Written in History
From the hardwood courts of Compton to the grandest arenas in the NBA, Violet Palmer's journey is a masterclass in persistence, excellence, and breaking barriers that others said couldn't be broken.
NBA History
First female referee to officiate an NBA regular-season game — a barrier that stood for 51 years before Violet changed the game.
Naismith Award
Named Official of the Year by the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame — recognition that transcended gender and spoke purely to excellence.
All-Star Game
Officiated the NBA All-Star Game in New Orleans — one of the most prestigious officiating assignments in professional basketball.
Beyond the Court
Violet Palmer brings her standard of excellence to every engagement.
NBA
As an ongoing consultant for the NBA, Violet continues to shape the future of officiating at the highest level of professional basketball.
Keynote Speaking
An inspiring, commanding presence on stage — sharing her journey of breaking barriers and what it takes to perform at the highest level under pressure.
Referee Training
Through the Basics Referee School, Violet develops the next generation of basketball officials using proven techniques from her 19-year NBA career.
Media & Appearances
Available for editorial features, documentary interviews, panel discussions, and select public appearances.
As Seen In
