Violet Palmer: The Play Is The Play

EP 022 - Reflection - Violet Palmer

As the 2025–2026 basketball season comes to a close, Violet Palmer reflects on an incredible year of conversations, lessons, and stories from some of the game’s most respected officials and leaders. In this special season finale of The Play is The Play, Violet revisits powerful moments from throughout the season. From Bobby Mozee’s insights on the importance of mentorship, to Rod Palmer and Tanya Stine sharing the unique dynamics of officiating within a family, each conversation highlighted the people and principles that shape the officiating community. You’ll also hear key takeaways from Alecia Murray on building strong crew chemistry, In’Fini Robinson on the importance of branding yourself and owning your professional identity, Kathleen Cassidy on being ready when opportunity presents itself, and Dana Pappas on why starting at the high school level can be the foundation for a long and successful officiating career. This episode is a celebration of growth, relationships, and the shared passion for the game that brings officials together. As the season wraps up, Violet reflects on the lessons learned and the voices that helped make this year of The Play is The Play so impactful.

EP 021 - Family Roots - Guest: Scott Osborne

In this episode of The Play is The Play, Violet Palmer sits down with Division I official Scott Osborne for a conversation rooted in family, fundamentals, and the responsibility that comes with wearing the stripes. Scott shares what it was like growing up in an officiating family — learning the craft not from a classroom, but from the backseat of a car listening to postgame breakdowns with his dad and watching games alongside his mom. From camp gyms to conference tournaments, Scott’s journey is proof that officiating isn’t just a profession — it’s a lifestyle built on preparation, passion, and perspective. Violet and Scott break down a monitor review involving a potential unobserved flagrant foul — but this conversation goes deeper than the replay. It’s about open looks, primary coverage, rotation discipline, and trusting your fundamentals. Because sometimes the biggest lessons aren’t about what you review… they’re about what you should have seen the first time. This episode is about growth, accountability, and understanding that elite officiating starts long before the whistle.

EP 020 - International Official - Guest: Simona Petronyte

In this episode of The Play Is The Play, Violet Palmer sits down with Simona Petronyte for a conversation that blends culture, authenticity, and high-level officiating. In the Keepin’ It Real segment, Simona opens up about her journey as an official from Lithuania, navigating basketball at an elite level while embracing who she truly is. She talks about the importance of being authentic, staying grounded in her identity, and carrying her international perspective into every game she works. Together, Violet and Simona discuss how confidence, individuality, and preparation allow officials to thrive — no matter where they come from. Then, in The Play Is The Play, Violet and Simona break down a complex team control situation on a loose ball — a newer appeal play that requires sharp awareness and strong real-time communication. They walk through how to identify team control during scramble situations, what signals matter, and how to communicate the decision clearly and confidently to coaches and players in the moment. This episode highlights the power of authenticity and the importance of mastering evolving rules through preparation and communication.

EP 019 - Happily Ever After - Guests: Tanya Stine & Brian Woods

This episode takes you behind the whistle and behind the scenes. Violet Palmer opens the show with a candid conversation alongside her wife about what it’s like to be married to a basketball official. They discuss travel, time commitments, understanding the profession, and the role support plays in sustaining both the relationship and the career. Violet then teams up with Brian Woods to break down a play centered on dead-ball officiating. The discussion focuses on situational awareness, recognizing adverse situations, and the importance of being fully engaged when the ball is not live—often when problems begin. This episode is about support, awareness, and doing the work when it matters most.

EP 018 - Not Just A High School Official - Guests: Dana Pappas & Rich Waters

The Play is The Play with Violet Palmer returns with a meaningful conversation centered on development, foundation, and trusting the officiating process. In this episode, Violet is joined by Dana Pappas for the Keepin’ It Real segment, where they discuss the importance of interscholastic sports officiating. Together, they highlight why the high school level is more than just a stepping stone—it’s where officials build their foundation, develop strong habits, and gain experiences that prepare them for opportunities at the next level. The conversation reinforces how working interscholastic games helps officials grow both on and off the floor. Violet is also joined by Richard Waters for a breakdown of a key coverage play. Rich and Violet walk through a situation where the trail official trusts the system, stays disciplined, and allows the play to develop, ultimately preventing an incorrect call. It’s a great example of how proper mechanics, patience, and teamwork lead to successful outcomes. Whether you’re a newer official or a seasoned veteran, this episode is a reminder that preparation, trust, and teamwork matter—because at the end of the day, the play is the play.