Referee sues Kentucky media outlet over threats, harassment

NCAA basketball referee John Higgins filed a civil lawsuit in federal court against Kentucky Sports Radio, according to court documents uncovered by The Athletic's Dana O'Neil.

The suit alleges Higgins experienced emotional distress and invasion of privacy due to Kentucky Sports Radio sharing his personal and business information on the radio and online following a March Elite Eight game that he officiated.

North Carolina defeated Kentucky 75-73 in the contest, leading to a bevy of complaints from Wildcats fans about Higgins' calls.

His private company, Weatherguard, was allegedly subject to thousands of threatening calls, including, the lawsuit claims, death threats against the referee and his family.

Higgins was named 2016-17's Naismith Official of the Year.