STERN WILLING TO CHANGE NBA REF RULES FOR GAMBLING: NBA referees hoping to avoid punishment for gambling have hit the jackpot:

YAHOO NEWS reports that commish David Stern will not punish more than half of the 56 whistle-blowers caught violating the league’s gambling policy.Stern said he though the current rules are “outdated”, and plans on making gambling policies more lenient for the men in striped shirts. He also admitted that he’s done a “poor job” at enforcing the rules.

NBA referees are not permitted to enter the gaming area of casinos, and no betting of any kind is allowed, except for off-season trips to the horse track.

Meaning, no betting on football, no buying lottery tickets, no playing poker, and no filling out March Madness brackets.But Stern is willing to modify the rules to let the refs enjoy the slots and tables at the local Harrah’s or tribal gaming lands. But the sports books will still be off limits.

And no sneaking food out of the buffets. Please keep the tupperware at home.