Parker and Nunn On The Same Page

French star Tony Parker caught up with an old friend in Vilnius when he came face to face once again with NBA refereeing guru Ronnie Nunn.

Within seconds of meeting, the pair became locked in deep conversation and it didn't take long for Parker to give Nunn a glowing report about the current crop of EuroBasket 2011 game officials.

"I think the biggest thing I am happy with this year is the way that we can talk to the referees," explained the San Antonio Spurs point guard.

"Obviously this is all about showing them a lot of respect and making sure you don't scream. It has to be a two-way conversation if you want to be able to learn and talk about things with them.

"In the NBA, we get to see the referees every few days so you have more of an opportunity to develop a relationship - something which is of course more difficult with the National Team as you might not see referees for one or maybe even two years.

"If you approach referees in the right and proper way, you should always be able to have a conversation and I really like that."

Parker continued: "Basketball is a game of emotion and communication between players and referees is hugely important.