What equipment must the referee have during the toss?

During the toss, the referee must have a whistle in their mouth. The whistle serves multiple important functions: it signals the start of the game and communicates with players, coaches, and other officials. It is a crucial tool for ensuring that all participants are aware of what is happening on the court, particularly at the beginning of the game when the toss takes place. The sound of the whistle draws attention to the officiating, marking a formal and clear start to the proceedings.

While a clipboard with notes, a stopwatch, or a rulebook might be useful in various scenarios during the game, they are not essential during this specific moment. The toss is a quick and decisive action that primarily requires the referee to signal clearly with a whistle, ensuring the game begins smoothly and effectively.