Spotlight: In Memory of Stephane Labonne (1973-2026)

EBOA and ABOA Official Hall of Fame member Stephane Labonne Passes; Written by Perry Stothart

Stephane Labonne dedicated over 25 years to the game of basketball, leaving an indelible mark on the Edmonton Basketball Officials Association (EBOA) and the wider officiating community across Alberta and British Columbia. Steph was the consummate professional, known just as much for his unflappable on-court demeanor as he was for his massive, million-dollar smile.

On the hardwood, Steph was a master game manager. Whether he was working community league games on a Saturday morning or managing 6,000 screaming fans at a major tournament final, he brought a quiet, unwavering confidence that instantly put players, coaches, and his partners at ease. His ability to sell a call, connect with people, and diffuse tension with a quick-witted joke made him an official you always wanted in your corner.

Off the court, Steph’s impact was monumental. He stepped up to serve as EBOA President during a crucial time, leading a major overhaul of our bylaws and creating the executive structure we still operate under today. His selfless dedication was recognized with the EBOA Service Award in 2012, the Bob Sexsmith Award in 2010, and ultimately, an Honorary Life Membership from both the EBOA and the ABOA.

However, the accolade that truly reflected Steph’s heart was the Herb McLachlin Award he received in 2019. Steph was a deeply caring mentor who genuinely reveled in the success of others. He would get visibly thrilled watching a developing official show marked improvement.

In refereeing, our training highlights a core hierarchy: The Game First, The Crew Second, and Yourself Third. Steph lived that mantra every single day. We have lost an important leader, a straight shooter, and a great friend, but the lessons he taught us about teamwork, resilience, and community will stay with us long after the final buzzer.

Tributes from the Basketball Community

"Beside the word 'professional' in the dictionary you will find a picture of Stephane Labonne. He put his heart and soul into attaining his goals, and as I got to know him a little better, it was obvious to me, that is how he approached everything in his life."

"Stephane served as EBOA President at a crucial time... His Leadership skills and managing the people and the process were beyond expectations. His contributions are still very visible today and will be in the future. We lost an important and caring Leader, Member, and all-around great man!"

"When I think of Steph, he was always a great guy to laugh with, a thoughtful, bright colleague and friend. He had the largest million-dollar smile, yet in a flash could convert it to his smart, serious, 'I am in charge' face. Only to be quickly diverted back by a little joke."

"Steph always played it straight with me on the court, good or bad. I always knew I could expect an honest discussion with him as my partner. Off the court, I have only memories of laughter and community. He laughed easily, and he made me laugh."

"He was passionate about refereeing, but even more so about the referees and seeing them improve and their successes -  he was almost giddy in fact when a ref showed marked improvement."