A Brooklyn federal judge yesterday refused to allow an early end to probation for a former NBA referee who took money from a professional gambler.

Tim Donaghy had argued to Judge Carol Amon that he should be released early because of good conduct and because it’s difficult to find work while under probation.

Donaghy admitted taking thousands of dollars from a gambler for inside tips on games, including games he worked. The scandal raised questions about the integrity of the National Basketball Association’s officiating.