A federal judge in New York has refused to allow an early end to supervised release for a former NBA referee who took money from a professional gambler.

Former referee Tim Donaghy (DAHN'-uh-hee) argued he should be released early because of good conduct and because it's difficult to find work while under court supervision. The judge denied the request Tuesday.

Donaghy admitted taking thousands of dollars from a gambler for inside tips on games, including games he worked. The scandal tarnished the reputation of the league and raised questions about the integrity of its officiating.

Donaghy pleaded guilty in 2008 to conspiracy to engage in wire fraud and transmitting betting information through interstate commerce. He was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison camp and served 33 of 36 months of supervised release. His sentence ends Nov. 3.