John Jeremiah O'Brien (born November 4, 1888 – December 9, 1967) was an American basketball referee and administrator. Born inBrooklyn, New York, he was involved in organizing several early professional basketball leagues. In 1925, he foundedMetropolitan Basketball League, which featuredOriginal Celtics. From 1928 to 1953 he was an executive withAmerican Basketball League, serving as president and, later, as chairman of the board. He was enshrined into theBasketball Hall of Fame as a contributor in 1961.