FIBA Official Basketball Rules 2024 - PDF

2024 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES BASKETBALL RULES & BASKETBALL EQUIPMENT Valid as of 1st October 2024 Official Basketball Rules 2024 As approved by FIBA Central Board Mies, Switzerland, 26th April 2024 Valid as of 1st October 2024 v 1.0a TABLE OF CONTENTS RULE ONE – THE GAME................................................................................................................. 5 Article 1 Definitions.................................................................................................................................. 5 RULE TWO – COURT AND EQUIPMENT....................................................................................... 6 Article 2 Court........................................................................................................................................... 6 Article 3 Equipment................................................................................................................................ 11 RULE THREE – TEAMS................................................................................................................. 12 Article 4 Teams....................................................................................................................................... 12 Article 5 Players: Injury and assistance............................................................................................. 14 Article 6 Captain: Duties and powers................................................................................................. 14 Article 7 Head coach and first assistant coach: Duties and powers............................................ 15 RULE FOUR – PLAYING REGULATIONS...................................................................................... 16 Article 8 Playing time, tied score and overtime................................................................................ 16 Article 9 Start and end of a quarter, overtime or the game............................................................ 16 Article 10 Status of the ball..................................................................................................................... 17 Article 11 Location of a player and a referee...................................................................................... 18 Article 12 Jump ball and alternating possession................................................................................ 18 Article 13 How the ball is played........................................................................................................... 20 Article 14 Control of the ball................................................................................................................... 20 Article 15 Player in the act of shooting................................................................................................ 20 Article 16 Goal: When made and its value........................................................................................... 21 Article 17 Throw-in................................................................................................................................... 22 Article 18 Time-out................................................................................................................................... 24 Article 19 Substitution............................................................................................................................. 26 Article 20 Game lost by forfeit................................................................................................................ 27 Article 21 Game lost by default.............................................................................................................. 28 RULE FIVE – VIOLATIONS............................................................................................................ 29 Article 22 Violations................................................................................................................................. 29 Article 23 Player out-of-bounds and ball out-of-bounds................................................................... 29 Article 24 Dribbling................................................................................................................................... 29 Article 25 Travelling................................................................................................................................. 30 Article 26 3 seconds................................................................................................................................. 31 Article 27 Closely guarded player.......................................................................................................... 31 Article 28 8 seconds................................................................................................................................. 32 Article 29 Shot clock................................................................................................................................ 32 Article 30 Ball returned to the backcourt............................................................................................. 34 Article 31 Goaltending and Interference.............................................................................................. 35 RULE SIX – FOULS........................................................................................................................ 37 Article 32 Fouls......................................................................................................................................... 37 Article 33 Contact: General principles.................................................................................................. 37 Article 34 Personal foul........................................................................................................................... 42 Article 35 Double foul.............................................................................................................................. 43 Article 36 Technical foul......................................................................................................................... 43 Article 37 Unsportsmanlike foul............................................................................................................. 45 Article 38 Disqualifying foul.................................................................................................................... 46 Article 39 Fighting..................................................................................................................................... 48 October 2024 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 Page 3 of 105 RULE SEVEN – GENERAL PROVISIONS..................................................................................... 49 Article 40 Foul limits by a player/head coach and game disqualifications.................................... 49 Article 41 Team fouls: Penalty................................................................................................................ 49 Article 42 Special situations................................................................................................................... 50 Article 43 Free throws............................................................................................................................. 50 Article 44 Correctable errors.................................................................................................................. 52 RULE EIGHT – REFEREES, TABLE OFFICIALS, COMMISSIONER: DUTIES AND POWERS..... 56 Article 45 Referees, table officials and commissioner...................................................................... 56 Article 46 Crew chief: Duties and powers........................................................................................... 56 Article 47 Referees: Duties and powers............................................................................................... 57 Article 48 Scorer and assistant scorer: Duties................................................................................... 58 Article 49 Timer: Duties........................................................................................................................... 59 Article 50 Shot clock operator: Duties.................................................................................................. 60 APPENDIX A – REFEREES’ SIGNALS.......................................................................................... 62 APPENDIX B – THE SCORESHEET.............................................................................................. 62 APPENDIX C – PROTEST PROCEDURE....................................................................................... 80 APPENDIX D – CLASSIFICATION OF TEAMS............................................................................ 81 APPENDIX E – MEDIA TIME-OUTS............................................................................................ 93 APPENDIX F – INSTANT REPLAY SYSTEM................................................................................ 94 INDEX TO THE RULES.................................................................................................................. 97 TABLE OF DIAGRAMS Diagram 1 Full size court.................................................................................................................... 7 Diagram 2 Court and floor.................................................................................................................. 8 Diagram 3 Restricted area................................................................................................................. 9 Diagram 4 2-point/3-point goal area............................................................................................... 10 Diagram 5 Scorer's table and substitution chairs....................................................................... 10 Diagram 6 Cylinder principle........................................................................................................... 38 Diagram 7 Players' positions during free throws......................................................................... 51 Diagram 8 Referees' signals............................................................................................................ 69 Diagram 9 Scoresheet...................................................................................................................... 70 Diagram 10 Top of the scoresheet.................................................................................................... 71 Diagram 11 Teams on the scoresheet (before the game)............................................................ 72 Diagram 12 Teams on the scoresheet (after the game)............................................................... 73 Diagram 13 Running score................................................................................................................. 78 Diagram 14 Summing up..................................................................................................................... 79 Diagram 15 Bottom of the scoresheet............................................................................................. 79 Page 4 of 105 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 October 2024 Throughout the Official Basketball Rules the text applies equally to all genders and shall be read accordingly. RULE ONE – THE GAME Article 1 Definitions 1.1 Basketball game Basketball is played by 2 teams of 5 players each. The aim of each team is to score in the opponents' basket and to prevent the other team from scoring. The game is conducted by the referees, table officials and a commissioner, if present. 1.2 Participants’ responsibility All participants in the game, table officials, the technical delegates/commissioners, if present, all team members entitled to play, the head coaches and other accompanying delegation members should play a positive role in the smooth running of the game and are expected to always demonstrate ethical behaviour. Should they become aware of an inaccuracy (correctable error) in scorekeeping involving the score, fouls, time-outs as well as the timekeeping and shot clock operations, they are expected to notify the referees immediately to ensure and facilitate the error to be corrected in accordance with these rules. 1.3 Basket: opponents'/own The basket that is attacked by a team is the opponents' basket and the basket which is defended by a team is its own basket. 1.4 Winner of a game The team that has scored the greater number of points at the end of playing time shall be the winner. October 2024 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 Page 5 of 105 RULE TWO – COURT AND EQUIPMENT Article 2 Court 2.1 Court The court shall have a flat, hard surface free from obstructions (Diagram 1) with dimensions of 28 m in length by 15 m in width measured from the inner edge of the boundary line. 2.2 Floor The floor shall include the court area surrounded by a further boundary lane free from obstructions with a minimum of 2 m in width (Diagram 2). Therefore, the floor shall have dimensions of a minimum of 32 m in length and a minimum of 19 m in width. 2.3 Backcourt A team's backcourt consists of its team's own basket, the inbounds part of the backboard and that part of the court limited by the endline behind its own basket, the sidelines and the centre line. 2.4 Frontcourt A team's frontcourt consists of the opponents' basket, the inbounds part of the backboard and that part of the court limited by the endline behind the opponents' basket, the sidelines and the inner edge of the centre line nearest to the opponents' basket. 2.5 Lines All lines shall be of the same colour and marked in white or other contrasting colour, 5 cm in width and clearly visible. 2.5.1 Boundary line The court shall be limited by the boundary line, consisting of the endlines and the sidelines. These lines are not part of the court. Any obstruction including seated head coach, first assistant coach, substitutes, excluded players and accompanying delegation members shall be at least 2 m from the court. 2.5.2 Centre line, centre circle and free-throw semi-circles The centre line shall be marked parallel to the endlines from the mid-point of the sidelines. It shall extend 0.15 m beyond each sideline. The centre line is part of the backcourt. The centre circle shall be marked in the centre of the court and have a radius of 1.80 m measured to the outer edge of the circumference. The free-throw semi-circles shall be marked on the court with a radius of 1.80 m measured to the outer edge of the circumference and with their centres at the mid- point of the free-throw lines (Diagram 3). Page 6 of 105 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 October 2024 Diagram 1 Full size court October 2024 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 Page 7 of 105 Diagram 2 Court and floor 2.5.3 Free-throw lines, restricted areas and free-throw rebound places The free-throw line shall be marked parallel to each endline. It shall have its furthest edge 5.80 m from the inner edge of the endline and shall be 3.60 m long. Its mid-point shall lie on the imaginary line joining the mid-point of the 2 endlines. The restricted areas shall be the rectangular areas marked on the court limited by the endlines, the extended free-throw lines and the lines which originate at the endlines, their outer edges being 2.45 m from the mid-point of the endlines and terminating at the outer edge of the extended free-throw lines. These lines, excluding the endlines, are part of the restricted area. Free-throw rebound places along the restricted areas, reserved for players during free throws, shall be marked as in Diagram 3. 2.5.4 3-point goal area The team's 3-point goal area (Diagram 1 and Diagram 4) shall be the entire court area, except for the area near the opponents' basket, limited by and including: The 2 parallel lines extending from and perpendicular to the endline, with the outer edge 0.90 m from the inner edge of the sidelines. An arc of radius 6.75 m measured from the point on the court beneath the exact centre of the opponents' basket to the outer edge of the arc. The distance of the point on the court from the inner edge of the mid-point of the endline is 1.575 m. The arc is joined to the parallel lines. The 3-point line is not part of the 3-point goal area. 2.5.5 Team bench areas The team bench areas shall be marked outside the court limited by 2 lines as in Diagram 1. There must be 16 seats available in each team bench area for the head coach, the substitutes, the excluded players and the accompanying delegation members including assistant coaches. Any other persons shall be located at least 2 m behind the team bench. Page 8 of 105 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 October 2024 2.5.6 Throw-in lines The 4 throw-in lines, 2 of them on each sideline, of 0.15 m in length shall be marked outside the court, with the outer edge of the lines 8.325 m from the inner edge of the nearest endline. 2.5.7 No-charge semi-circle areas The no-charge semi-circle areas shall be marked on the court, limited by: A semi-circle line with the radius of 1.30 m measured from the point on the court beneath the exact centre of the basket to the outer edge of the semi-circle. The semi-circle line is joined to: The 2 parallel lines perpendicular to the endline, the outer edge 1.30 m from the point on the court beneath the exact centre of the basket, 0.375 m in length and ending 1.20 m from the inner edge of the endline. The no-charge semi-circle areas are completed by imaginary lines joining the ends of the parallel lines directly below the front edges of the backboards. The no-charge semi-circle lines are part of the no-charge semi-circle areas. Diagram 3 Restricted area October 2024 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 Page 9 of 105 Diagram 4 2-point/3-point goal area 2.6 Position of the scorer's table and substitution chairs (Diagram 5) The scorer's table and its chairs must be placed on a platform. The announcer and/or statisticians (if present) can be seated at the side of and/or behind the scorer’s table. Diagram 5 Scorer's table and substitution chairs Page 10 of 105 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 October 2024 Article 3 Equipment The following equipment shall be required: Backstop units, consisting of: ▬ Backboards ▬ Baskets comprising (pressure release) rings and nets ▬ Backboard support structures including padding. Basketballs Game clock Scoreboard Shot clock Stopwatch or suitable (visible) device (not the game clock) for timing time-outs 2 separate, distinctly different and loud signals, one of each for the ▬ shot clock operator, ▬ timer. Scoresheet Player / head coach foul markers Team foul markers Alternating possession arrow Floor Court Adequate lighting. For a more detailed description of basketball equipment, see the Appendix on Basket- ball Equipment. October 2024 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 Page 11 of 105 RULE THREE – TEAMS Article 4 Teams 4.1 Definition 4.1.1 A team member is eligible to play when authorised to play for a team according to the regulations, including regulations governing age limits, of the organising body of the competition. 4.1.2 A team member is entitled to play when entered on the scoresheet before the start of the game and as long as the player has neither been disqualified nor committed 5 fouls. 4.1.3 During playing time, a team member is: A player when on the court and entitled to play. A substitute when not on the court but entitled to play. An excluded player when having committed 5 fouls and is no longer entitled to play. 4.1.4 During any interval of play, all team members entitled to play are considered as players. 4.2 Rule 4.2.1 Each team shall consist of: No more than 12 team members entitled to play, including a captain. A head coach. A maximum of 8 accompanying delegation members, including assistant coaches who may sit on the team bench. In case a team has assistant coaches, the first assistant coach shall be entered on the scoresheet. 4.2.2 During playing time 5 team members from each team shall be on the court and may be substituted. 4.2.3 During playing time a substitute becomes a player and a player becomes a substitute when: The referee beckons the substitute to enter the court. During a time-out a substitute requests the substitution to the timer. During an interval of play between quarters and overtimes, a player becomes a substitute when the respective interval ends. 4.3 Uniforms 4.3.1 The uniform of all team members shall consist of: Shirts of the same dominant colour front and back as the shorts. If shirts have sleeves, they must end above the elbow. Long sleeved shirts are not permitted. All players must tuck their shirts into their playing shorts. 'All-in-ones' are permitted. Shorts of the same dominant colour front and back as the shirts. The shorts must end above the knee. Socks of the same dominant colour for all team members. Socks need to be visible. Page 12 of 105 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 October 2024 4.3.2 Each team member shall wear a shirt numbered on the front and back with plain numbers, of a colour contrasting with the colour of the shirt. The numbers shall be clearly visible and: Those on the back shall be at least 16 cm high. Those on the front shall be at least 8 cm high. The numbers shall be at least 2 cm wide. Teams may only use numbers 0 and 00 and from 1 to 99. Players on the same team shall not wear the same number. Any advertising or logo shall be at least 4 cm away from the numbers. 4.3.3 Teams must have a minimum of 2 sets of shirts and: The first team named in the schedule (home team) shall wear light-coloured shirts (preferably white). The second team named in the schedule (visiting team) shall wear dark-coloured shirts. However, if the 2 teams agree, they may interchange the colours of the shirts. 4.4 Other equipment 4.4.1 All equipment used by players must be appropriate for the game. Any equipment that is designed to increase a player's height or reach or in any other way give an unfair advantage is not permitted. 4.4.2 Players shall not wear equipment (objects) that may cause injury to other players. The following are not permitted: ▬ Finger, hand, wrist, elbow or forearm guards, helmets, casts or braces made of leather, plastic, pliable (soft) plastic, metal or any other hard substance, even if covered with soft padding. ▬ Objects that could cut or cause abrasions (fingernails must be closely cut). ▬ Hair accessories and jewellery. The following are permitted: ▬ Upper arm, thigh or lower leg protective equipment if sufficiently padded. ▬ Arm and leg garments, including undershirts and undershorts, made of compression material. ▬ Headgear. It shall not cover any part of the face entirely or partially (eyes, nose, lips etc.) and shall not be dangerous to the player wearing it and/or to other players. The headgear shall not have opening/closing elements around the face and/or neck and shall not have any parts extruding from its surface. ▬ Knee, shoulder and ankle braces. ▬ Protector covering an injured nose, even if made of a hard material. ▬ Non-coloured transparent mouth guard. ▬ Spectacles, if they do not pose a danger to other players. ▬ Wristbands and headbands, maximum of 10 cm wide textile material. ▬ Taping of arms, shoulders, legs etc. All players on the team must have all their arm and leg compression garments including undershirts and undershorts, headgear, wristbands, headbands and tapings of the same solid colour. 4.4.3 During the game a player may wear shoes of any colour combination. No flashing lights, reflective material or other adornments are permitted. October 2024 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 Page 13 of 105 4.4.4 During the game a player may not display any commercial, promotional or charitable name, mark, logo or other identification including, but not limited to, on the player’s body, in the hair or otherwise. 4.4.5 Any other equipment not specifically mentioned in this article must be approved by the FIBA Technical Commission. Article 5 Players: Injury and assistance 5.1 In the event of injury to a player(s), the referees may stop the game. 5.2 If the ball is live when an injury occurs, the referee shall not blow the whistle until the team in control of the ball has shot for a goal, lost control of the ball, withheld the ball from play or the ball has become dead, unless neither team shall be placed at a disadvantage. If it is necessary to protect an injured player, the referees may stop the game immediately. 5.3 If an injured player cannot continue to play immediately (within approximately 15 seconds) or if a player receives treatment or any assistance from the player’s own head coach, assistant coaches, substitutes, excluded players and/or accompanying delegation members, that player must be substituted unless the team is reduced to fewer than 5 players on the court. 5.4 Head coach, assistant coaches, substitutes, excluded players and accompanying delegation members may enter the court, only with the permission of a referee, to attend an injured player before the player is substituted. 5.5 When the ball has become dead, a doctor may enter the court without the permission of a referee if, in the doctor's judgement, the injured player requires immediate medical treatment. 5.6 During the game, any player who is bleeding or has an open wound must be substituted. The player may return to the court only after the bleeding has stopped and the affected area or open wound has been completely and securely covered. 5.7 If the injured player or any player who is bleeding or has an open wound recovers during a time-out taken by either team before the timer’s signal for the substitution, that player may continue to play. 5.8 Players who have been designated by the head coach to start the game or who receive treatment between free throws may be substituted in the event of an injury. In this case, the opponents are also entitled to substitute the same number of players, if they wish. Article 6 Captain: Duties and powers 6.1 The captain (CAP) is a player designated by the head coach to represent the team on the court. The captain may communicate in a courteous manner with the referees during the game to obtain information only when the ball is dead and the game clock is stopped. 6.2 The captain shall inform the crew chief no later than 15 minutes following the end of the game, if the team is protesting against the result of the game and shall sign the scoresheet in the 'Captain's signature in case of protest' column. Page 14 of 105 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 October 2024 Article 7 Head coach and first assistant coach: Duties and powers 7.1 At least 40 minutes before the game is scheduled to start, each head coach or the team’s representative shall give the scorer a list with the names and corresponding numbers of the team members who are eligible to play in the game, as well as the name of the captain of the team, the head coach and the first assistant coach. All team members whose names are entered on the scoresheet are entitled to play, even if they arrive after the start of the game. 7.2 At least 10 minutes before the game is scheduled to start, each head coach shall confirm the names and corresponding numbers of the team members and the names of the head coach and first assistant coach by signing the scoresheet. At the same time, the head coach shall indicate the 5 players to start the game. The head coach of team 'A' shall be the first to provide this information. 7.3 The head coaches, assistant coaches, substitutes, excluded players and accom- panying delegation members are the only persons permitted to sit and remain within their team bench area. During playing time all substitutes, excluded players and accompanying delegation members shall remain seated. 7.4 The head coach or the first assistant coach may go to the scorer’s table during the game to obtain statistical information only when the ball becomes dead and the game clock is stopped. 7.5 The head coach may communicate in a courteous manner with the referees during the game to obtain information only when the ball is dead and the game clock is stopped. 7.6 Either the head coach or the first assistant coach, but only one of them at any given time, is permitted to remain standing during the game. They may address the players verbally during the game provided they remain within their team bench area. The first assistant coach shall not communicate with the referees. 7.7 The name of first assistant coach, if any, must be entered on the scoresheet before the start of the game (a signature is not necessary). The first assistant coach shall assume all duties and powers of the head coach if, for any reason, the head coach is unable to continue. 7.8 If the captain leaves the court, the head coach shall inform a referee of the number of the player who shall act as captain on the court. 7.9 The captain shall act as player head coach if there is no head coach, or if the head coach is unable to continue and there is no first assistant coach entered on the scoresheet (or the latter is unable to continue). If the captain must leave the court, that captain may continue to act as player head coach. If the captain must leave following a disqualifying foul or is unable to act as player head coach because of injury, the substitute as captain may act as player head coach. 7.10 The head coach shall designate the free-throw shooter of the team in all cases where the free-throw shooter is not determined by the rules. October 2024 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 Page 15 of 105 RULE FOUR – PLAYING REGULATIONS Article 8 Playing time, tied score and overtime 8.1 The game shall consist of 4 quarters of 10 minutes each. 8.2 There shall be an interval of play of 20 minutes before the game is scheduled to start. 8.3 There shall be the intervals of play of 2 minutes between the first and second quarter (first half), between the third and fourth quarter (second half) and before each overtime. 8.4 There shall be a half-time interval of play of 15 minutes. 8.5 An interval of play starts: 20 minutes before the game is scheduled to start. When the game clock signal sounds for the end of the quarter or overtimes. 8.6 An interval of play ends: At the start of the first quarter when the ball leaves the hand(s) of the crew chief on the toss for the jump ball in the centre circle. At the start of all other quarters and overtimes when the ball is at the disposal of the thrower-in. 8.7 If the score is tied at the end of the fourth quarter, the game shall continue with as many overtimes of 5 minutes duration each as necessary to break the tie. If the aggregated score of both games for a 2-games home and away total points series competition system is tied at the end of the second game, this game shall continue with as many overtimes of 5 minutes duration each as necessary to break the tie. 8.8 If a foul is committed near the end of a quarter and overtime, the referee shall deter- mine the remaining playing time. A minimum of 0.1 second shall be shown on the game clock. 8.9 If a technical, unsportsmanlike or disqualifying foul is committed during an interval of play, any eventual free throw(s) shall be administered before the start of the following quarter or overtime. Article 9 Start and end of a quarter, overtime or the game 9.1 The first quarter starts when the ball leaves the hand(s) of the crew chief on the toss for the jump ball in the centre circle. 9.2 All other quarters or overtimes start when the ball is at the disposal of the thrower- in. 9.3 The game cannot start if one or both teams are not on the court with 5 players ready to play. 9.4 For all games, the first team named in the schedule (home team) shall have its team bench and warm-up half-court before the game on the left side of the scorer’s table, when facing the court from the scorer’s table. Page 16 of 105 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 October 2024 However, if both teams agree, they may exchange the team benches and/or warm- up half-courts for the first half. 9.5 Teams shall exchange their warm-up half-courts and baskets for the second half. 9.6 In all overtimes the teams shall continue to play towards the same baskets as in the fourth quarter. 9.7 A quarter, overtime or game shall end when the game clock signal sounds for the end of the quarter or overtime. When the backboard is equipped with red lighting around its perimeter, the lighting takes precedence over the game clock signal sound. Article 10 Status of the ball 10.1 The ball can be either live or dead. 10.2 The ball becomes live when: During the jump ball, the ball leaves the hand(s) of the crew chief on the toss. During a free throw, the ball is at the disposal of the free-throw shooter. During a throw-in, the ball is at the disposal of the thrower-in. 10.3 The ball becomes dead when: Any goal or free throw is made. A referee blows the whistle while the ball is live. It is apparent that the ball shall not enter the basket on a free throw which is to be followed by: ▬ Another free throw(s). ▬ A further penalty (free throw(s) and/or possession). The game clock signal sounds for the end of the quarter or overtime. The shot clock signal sounds while a team is in control of the ball. The ball in flight on a shot for a goal is touched by a player from either team after: ▬ A referee blows the whistle. ▬ The game clock signal sounds for the end of the quarter or overtime. ▬ The shot clock signal sounds. 10.4 The ball does not become dead and the goal counts if made when: The ball is in flight on a shot for a goal and: ▬ A referee blows the whistle. ▬ The game clock signal sounds for the end of the quarter or overtime. ▬ The shot clock signal sounds. The ball is in flight on a free throw and a referee blows the whistle for any rule infraction other than by the free-throw shooter. The ball is in the control of a shooter for a goal who finishes the shot with a continuous motion which started before a foul is committed by any opponent player or by any person permitted to sit on the opponents’ team bench. This provision does not apply, and the goal shall not count if after a referee blows the whistle an entirely new act of shooting is made. October 2024 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 Page 17 of 105 Article 11 Location of a player and a referee 11.1 The location of a player is determined by where that player is touching the floor. While airborne, the player shall retain the same status as where that player last touched the floor. This includes the boundary line, the centre line, the 3-point line, the free-throw line, the lines delimiting the restricted area and the lines delimiting the no- charge semi-circle area. 11.2 The location of a referee is determined in the same manner as that of a player. When the ball touches a referee, it is the same as touching the floor at the referee's location. Article 12 Jump ball and alternating possession 12.1 Jump ball definition 12.1.1 A jump ball occurs when a referee tosses the ball between any 2 opponents. 12.1.2 A held ball occurs when one or more players from opposing teams have one or both hands firmly on the ball so that neither player can gain control without undue roughness. 12.2 Jump ball procedure 12.2.1 Each jumper shall stand with both feet inside the half of the centre circle nearest to the player’s own basket with one foot close to the centre line. 12.2.2 Team-mates may not occupy adjacent positions around the circle if an opponent wishes to occupy one of those positions. 12.2.3 The referee shall then toss the ball vertically upwards between the 2 opponents, higher than either of them can reach by jumping. 12.2.4 The ball must be tapped with the hand(s) of at least one of the jumpers after it has started its downward flight. 12.2.5 Neither jumper shall leave the jumper’s position until the ball has been legally tapped. 12.2.6 Neither jumper may catch the ball or tap it more than twice until it has touched one of the non-jumpers or the court. 12.2.7 If the ball is not tapped by at least one of the jumpers, the jump ball shall be repeated. 12.2.8 No part of a non-jumper's body may be on or over the circle line (cylinder) before the ball has been tapped. An infraction of Article 12.2.1, 12.2.4, 12.2.5, 12.2.6, and 12.2.8 is a violation. 12.3 Penalty The ball shall be awarded to the opponents for a throw-in from the place nearest to the infraction, except from directly behind the backboard. 12.4 Jump ball situations A jump ball situation occurs when: A held ball is called. The ball goes out-of-bounds and the referees are in doubt or disagree on which of the opponents last touched the ball. A double free-throw violation occurs during an unsuccessful last free throw. Page 18 of 105 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 October 2024 A live ball lodges between the ring and the backboard except: ▬ Between free throws, ▬ After the last free throw followed by a throw-in from the throw-in line in the team’s frontcourt, opposite the scorer’s table. The ball becomes dead when neither team has control of the ball nor is entitled to the ball. After the cancellation of equal penalties on both teams, if there are no other foul penalties remaining for administration and neither team had control of the ball nor was entitled to the ball before the first foul or violation. All quarters other than the first quarter and all overtimes are to start. 12.5 Alternating possession definition Alternating possession is a method of causing the ball to become live with a throw-in rather than a jump ball. 12.6 Alternating possession procedure 12.6.1 In all jump ball situations teams shall alternate possession of the ball for a throw-in from the place nearest to where the jump ball situation occurs, except directly behind the backboard. 12.6.2 The team that does not gain the first team control of a live ball after the jump ball shall be entitled to the first alternating possession throw-in. 12.6.3 The team entitled to the next alternating possession at the end of any quarter or overtime shall start the next quarter or overtime with a throw-in from the centre line extended, opposite the scorer’s table, unless there are further free throws and a possession penalty to be administered. 12.6.4 The team entitled to the alternating possession throw-in shall be indicated by the alternating possession arrow in the direction of the opponents’ basket. The direction of the alternating possession arrow shall be reversed immediately when the alterna- ting possession throw-in ends. 12.6.5 A violation by a team during its alternating possession throw-in causes that team to lose the alternating possession throw-in. The direction of the alternating possession arrow shall be reversed immediately, indicating that the opponents of the violating team shall be entitled to the alternating possession throw-in at the next jump ball situation. The game shall then be resumed by awarding the ball to the opponents of the violating team for a throw-in from the place of the original throw-in. 12.6.6 A foul by either team: Before the start of a quarter other than the first quarter or an overtime, or During the alternating possession throw-in, does not cause the team entitled to the throw-in to lose that alternating possession. October 2024 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 Page 19 of 105 Article 13 How the ball is played 13.1 Definition During the game, the ball is played with the hand(s) only and may be passed, thrown, tapped, rolled or dribbled in any direction, subject to the restrictions of these rules. 13.2 Rule A player shall not run with the ball, deliberately touch the ball, kick or block it with any part of the leg or strike it with the fist. However, to accidentally come into contact with or touch the ball with any part of the leg is not a violation. An infraction of Article 13.2 is a violation. 13.3 Penalty The ball shall be awarded to the opponents for a throw-in from the place nearest to the infraction, except from directly behind the backboard. Article 14 Control of the ball 14.1 Definition 14.1.1 Team control starts when a player of that team is in control of a live ball by holding or dribbling it or has a live ball at a player’s disposal. 14.1.2 Team control continues when: A player of that team is in control of a live ball. The ball is being passed between team-mates. 14.1.3 Team control ends when: An opponent gains control. The ball becomes dead. The ball has left the player's hand(s) on a shot for a goal or for a free throw. Article 15 Player in the act of shooting 15.1 Definition 15.1.1 A shot for a goal or a free throw is when the ball is held in a player’s hand(s) and is then thrown into the air towards the opponents' basket. A tap for a goal is when the ball is directed with the hand(s) towards the opponents' basket. A dunk for a goal is when the ball is forced downwards into the opponents' basket with one or both hands. A continuous movement on drives to the basket or other moving shots is an action of a player who catches the ball while progressing or upon completion of the dribble and then continues with the shooting motion, usually upwards. 15.1.2 The act of shooting: Starts when the player begins to move the ball upwards towards the opponents’ basket. Ends when the ball has left the player’s hand(s), or if an entirely new act of shooting is made and, in case of an airborne shooter, both feet have returned to the floor. Page 20 of 105 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 October 2024 15.1.3 The act of shooting in a continuous movement on a drive to the basket or other moving shot: Starts when the ball has come to rest in the player’s hand(s), upon completion of a dribble or a catch in the air and the player begins the shooting motion preceding the release of the ball for a goal. Ends when the ball has left the player’s hand(s), or if an entirely new act of shooting is made and, in case of an airborne shooter, both feet have returned to the floor. 15.1.4 There is no relationship between the number of legal steps taken and the act of shooting. 15.1.5 During the act of shooting the player might have the arm(s) held by an opponent, thus being prevented from scoring. In this case it is not essential that the ball leaves the player's hand(s). 15.1.6 When a player is in the act of shooting and after being fouled passes the ball off, that player is no longer considered to have been in the act of shooting. Article 16 Goal: When made and its value 16.1 Definition 16.1.1 A goal is made when a live ball enters the basket from above and remains within or passes through the basket entirely. 16.1.2 The ball is considered to be within the basket when the slightest part of the ball is within the basket and below the level of the ring. 16.2 Rule 16.2.1 A goal is credited to the team attacking the opponents’ basket into which the ball has entered as follows: A goal released from a free throw counts 1 point. A goal released from the 2-point goal area counts 2 points. A goal released from the 3-point goal area counts 3 points. After the ball has touched the ring on a last free throw and is legally touched by any player before it enters the basket, the goal counts 2 points. 16.2.2 If a player accidentally scores a goal in the player’s own basket, the goal counts 2 points and shall be entered on the scoresheet as having been scored by the captain of the opponents’ team on the court. 16.2.3 If a player deliberately scores a goal in the player’s own basket, it is a violation and the goal shall not count. 16.2.4 If a player causes the entire ball to pass through the basket from below, it is a violation. 16.2.5 The game clock or the shot clock must show 0.3 (3 tenths of a second) or more for a player to gain control of the ball on a throw-in or on a rebound after the last free throw in order to attempt a shot for a goal. If the game clock or the shot clock show 0.2 or 0.1 the only type of a valid goal that can be made is by tapping or directly dunking the ball, provided that the hand(s) of the player are no longer touching the ball when the game clock or the shot clock show 0.0. October 2024 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 Page 21 of 105 Article 17 Throw-in 17.1 Definition 17.1.1 A throw-in occurs when the ball is passed on to the court by the out-of-bounds thrower-in. 17.1.2 A throw-in: Starts when the ball is at the disposal of the thrower-in. Ends when: ▬ The ball touches or is legally touched by any player on the court. ▬ The team of the thrower-in commits a violation. ▬ A live ball lodges between the ring and the backboard during a throw-in. 17.2 Procedure 17.2.1 A referee must hand or place the ball at the disposal of the thrower-in. The referee may also toss or bounce pass the ball provided that: The referee is no more than 4 m from the thrower-in. The thrower-in is at the correct place as designated by the referee. 17.2.2 The player shall take the throw-in from the place nearest to the infraction or where the game was stopped, except from directly behind the backboard. 17.2.3 At the start of all quarters other than the first quarter and all overtimes, the throw-in shall be administered from the centre line extended, opposite the scorer's table. The thrower-in shall have one foot on either side of the centre line extended, opposite the scorer’s table, and shall be entitled to pass the ball to a team-mate at any place on the court. 17.2.4 When the game clock shows 2:00 minutes or less in the fourth quarter and in each overtime, following a time-out taken by the team entitled to the possession of the ball from its backcourt, the head coach of that team has the right to decide whether the game shall be resumed with a throw-in from the throw-in line in the team’s frontcourt or from the team’s backcourt at the place nearest to where the game was stopped. If the head coach decides to resume the game with a frontcourt throw-in and the original throw-in is in the backcourt from the endline after a successful goal or a successful last free throw, the head coach shall decide whether the throw-in shall take place from the throw-in line on the table side or on opposite side. the sideline or the endline after a foul or violation, the throw-in shall take place in the frontcourt from the throw-in line at the same side of the court (table side or opposite side) as the original throw-in. 17.2.5 Following a personal foul committed by a player of the team in control of a live ball, or of the team entitled to the ball, the game shall be resumed with a throw-in from the place nearest to the infraction. 17.2.6 Following a technical foul, the game shall be resumed with a throw-in from the place nearest to where the ball was located when the technical foul was committed, unless otherwise stated in these rules. 17.2.7 Following an unsportsmanlike or disqualifying foul, the game shall be resumed with a throw-in from the throw-in line in the team’s frontcourt, opposite the scorer’s table, unless otherwise stated in these rules. Page 22 of 105 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 October 2024 17.2.8 Following a fight, the game shall be resumed as stated in Article 39. 17.2.9 Whenever the ball enters the basket, but the goal or the last free throw is not valid, the game shall be resumed with a throw-in from the free-throw line extended. 17.2.10 Following a successful goal or a successful last free throw: Any player of the non-scoring team shall take the throw-in from any place behind that team’s endline. This is also applicable after a referee hands or places the ball at the disposal of the thrower-in after a time-out or after any interruption of the game following a successful goal or a successful last free throw. The thrower-in from behind the endline may move laterally along the endline and/or backwards and the ball may be passed between team-mates, but the 5- second count starts when the ball is at the disposal of the first player out-of- bounds. 17.3 Rule 17.3.1 The thrower-in shall not: Take more than 5 seconds to release the ball. Step on to the court while having the ball in the hand(s). Cause the ball to touch out-of-bounds, after it has been released on the throw- in. Touch the ball on the court before it has touched another player. Cause the ball to enter the basket directly. Move from the designated throw-in place behind the boundary line laterally in one or both directions, exceeding a total distance of 1 m before releasing the ball. However, the player is permitted to move directly backwards from the boundary line as far as circumstances allow. 17.3.2 During the throw-in other player(s) shall not: Have any part of their bodies over the boundary line before the ball has been thrown-in across the boundary line. Be closer than 1 m to the thrower-in when the throw-in place has less than 2 m distance between the boundary line and any out-of-bounds obstructions. 17.3.3 When the game clock shows 2:00 minutes or less in the fourth quarter and in each overtime and there is a throw-in, the referee shall use an ‘illegal boundary line crossing’ signal as a warning before administering the throw-in. If a defensive player then: Moves any part of the body over the boundary line to interfere with a throw-in, or Is closer than 1 m to the thrower-in when the throw-in place has less than 2 m distance, it is a violation and shall lead to a technical foul. An infraction of Article 17.3 is a violation. 17.4 Penalty The ball shall be awarded to the opponents for a throw-in from the place of the original throw-in. October 2024 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 Page 23 of 105 Article 18 Time-out 18.1 Definition A time-out is an interruption of the game requested by the head coach or first assis- tant coach. 18.2 Rule 18.2.1 Each time-out shall last 1 minute. 18.2.2 A time-out may be granted during a time-out opportunity. 18.2.3 A time-out opportunity starts when: For both teams, the ball becomes dead, the game clock is stopped and the referee has ended communication with the scorer's table. For both teams, the ball becomes dead following a successful last free throw. For the non-scoring team, a goal is scored. 18.2.4 A time-out opportunity ends when the ball is at the disposal of a player for a throw-in or for a first free throw. 18.2.5 Each team may be granted: 2 time-outs during the first half. 3 time-outs during the second half with a maximum of 2 of these time-outs when the game clock shows 2:00 minutes or less in the fourth quarter. 1 time-out during each overtime. 18.2.6 Unused time-outs may not be carried over to the next half or overtime. 18.2.7 A time-out is charged against the team whose head coach or first assistant coach first made a request unless the time-out is granted following a goal scored by the opponents and without an infraction having been committed. 18.2.8 A time-out shall not be permitted to the scoring team when the game clock shows 2:00 minutes or less in the fourth quarter and in each overtime and, following a successful goal unless a referee has interrupted the game. 18.3 Procedure 18.3.1 Only a head coach or first assistant coach has the right to request a time-out. The coach shall establish visual contact with the scorer’s table or shall go to the scorer’s table and ask clearly for a time-out, making the proper conventional sign with the hands. 18.3.2 A time-out request may be cancelled only before the timer's signal has sounded for such a request. 18.3.3 The time-out period: Starts when the referee blows the whistle and gives the time-out signal. Ends when the referee blows the whistle and beckons the teams back on the court. 18.3.4 When a time-out opportunity starts, the timer shall sound the signal to notify the referees that a team has requested a time-out. If a goal is scored against a team which has requested a time-out, the timer shall immediately stop the game clock and sound the signal. Page 24 of 105 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 October 2024 18.3.5 During the time-out and during an interval of play before the start of the second and fourth quarter or each overtime, the players may leave the court and sit on the team bench and any person permitted to sit on the team bench may enter the court provided they remain within the vicinity of their team bench area. 18.3.6 If the request for the time-out is made by either team after the ball is at the disposal of the free-throw shooter for the first free throw, the time-out shall be granted if: The last free throw is successful. The last free throw, if not successful, is followed by a throw-in. A foul is committed between free throws. In this case, the set of free throws shall be completed and the time-out shall be permitted before the new foul penalty is administered, unless otherwise stated in these rules. A foul is committed before the ball becomes live after the last free throw. In this case, the time-out shall be permitted before the new foul penalty is administered. A violation is committed before the ball becomes live after the last free throw. In this case, the time-out shall be permitted before the throw-in is administered. In the event of consecutive sets of free throws and/or possession of the ball resulting from more than 1 foul penalty, each set is to be treated separately. October 2024 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 Page 25 of 105 Article 19 Substitution 19.1 Definition A substitution is an interruption of the game requested by the substitute to become a player. 19.2 Rule 19.2.1 A team may substitute a player(s) during a substitution opportunity. 19.2.2 A substitution opportunity starts when: For both teams, the ball becomes dead, the game clock is stopped and the referee has ended communication with the scorer's table. For both teams, the ball becomes dead following a successful last free throw. For the non-scoring team, a goal is scored when the game clock shows 2:00 minutes or less in the fourth quarter and in each overtime. 19.2.3 A substitution opportunity ends when the ball is at the disposal of a player for a throw- in or for a first free throw. 19.2.4 A player who has become a substitute and a substitute who has become a player cannot respectively re-enter the game or leave the game until the ball becomes dead again after a game clock running period, unless: The team is reduced to fewer than 5 players on the court. The player entitled to the free-throws as the result of the correction of an error is on the team bench after having been legally substituted. 19.2.5 A substitution shall not be permitted to the scoring team when the game clock is stopped following a successful goal when the game clock shows 2:00 minutes or less in the fourth quarter and in each overtime, unless a referee has interrupted the game. 19.2.6 If the player receives any treatment or any assistance, that player must be substituted unless the team is reduced to fewer than 5 players on the court. 19.3 Procedure 19.3.1 Only a substitute has the right to request a substitution. The substitute (not the head coach or the first assistant coach) shall go to the scorer’s table and ask clearly for a substitution, making the proper conventional sign with the hands, or sit on the substitution chair, ready to play immediately. 19.3.2 A substitution request may be cancelled only before the timer's signal has sounded for such a request. 19.3.3 When a substitution opportunity starts, the timer shall sound the signal to notify the referees that a request for a substitution has been made. 19.3.4 The substitute shall remain outside the boundary line until the referee blows the whistle, gives the substitution signal and beckons the substitute to enter the court. 19.3.5 The substituted player is permitted to go directly to the team bench without reporting either to the timer or the referee. 19.3.6 Substitutions shall be completed as quickly as possible. A player who has committed 5 fouls or has been disqualified must be substituted immediately (taking no more than 30 seconds). If there is a delay of the game, a time-out may be charged against the offending team. If the team has no time-out remaining, a technical foul for delaying the game may be charged against the head coach, entered as a 'B'. Page 26 of 105 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 October 2024 19.3.7 If a substitution is requested during a time-out or during an interval of play other than the half-time interval, the substitute must report to the timer before entering the game. 19.3.8 If the free-throw shooter must be substituted because of being injured, or having committed 5 fouls, or having been disqualified, the free throw(s) must be attempted by the substitute who may not be substituted again until after having played in the next game clock running period. 19.3.9 If the request for a substitution is made by either team after the ball is at the disposal of the free-throw shooter for the first free throw, the substitution shall be granted if: The last free throw is successful. The last free throw, if not successful, is followed by a throw-in. A foul is committed between free throws. In this case, the free throw(s) shall be completed and the substitution shall be permitted before the new foul penalty is administered, unless otherwise stated in these rules. A foul is committed before the ball becomes live after the last free throw. In this case, the substitution shall be permitted before the new foul penalty is administered. A violation is committed before the ball becomes live after the last free throw. In this case, the substitution shall be permitted before the throw-in is administered. In the event of consecutive sets of free throws and/or possession of the ball resulting from more than 1 foul penalty, each set is to be treated separately. Article 20 Game lost by forfeit 20.1 Rule A team shall lose the game by forfeit if: The team is not present or is unable to field 5 players ready to play 15 minutes after the game is scheduled to start. Its actions prevent the game from being played. It refuses to play after being instructed to do so by the crew chief. 20.2 Penalty 20.2.1 The game shall be awarded to the opponents and the score shall be 20 to 0. Furthermore, the forfeiting team shall receive 0 classification points. 20.2.2 For a 2-games (home and away) total points series (aggregate score) and for Play- Offs (best of 3), the team that forfeits in the first, second, or third game shall lose the series or Play-Offs by 'forfeit'. This does not apply for Play-Offs (best of 5 and best of 7). 20.2.3 If in a tournament the team forfeits for the second time, the team shall be disqualified from the tournament and the results of all games played by this team shall be nullified. October 2024 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 Page 27 of 105 Article 21 Game lost by default 21.1 Rule A team shall lose a game by default if during the game, the team has fewer than 2 players on the court ready to play. 21.2 Penalty 21.2.1 If the team to which the game is awarded is ahead, the score shall stand as at the time when the game was stopped. If the team to which the game shall be awarded is not ahead, the score shall be 2 to 0 in its favour. The defaulting team shall receive 1 classification point. 21.2.2 For a 2-games (home and away) total points series (aggregate score), the team that defaults in the first or in the second game shall lose the series by 'default'. Page 28 of 105 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 October 2024 RULE FIVE – VIOLATIONS Article 22 Violations 22.1 Definition A violation is an infraction of the rules. 22.2 Penalty The ball shall be awarded to the opponents for a throw-in from the place nearest to the infraction, except from directly behind the backboard, unless otherwise stated in these rules. Article 23 Player out-of-bounds and ball out-of-bounds 23.1 Definition 23.1.1 A player is out-of-bounds when any part of the body is in contact with the floor, or any object other than a player above, on or outside the boundary line. 23.1.2 The ball is out-of-bounds when it touches: A player or any other person who is out-of-bounds. The floor or any object above, on or outside the boundary line. The backboard supports, the back of the backboards or any object above the court. 23.2 Rule 23.2.1 The ball is caused to go out-of-bounds by the last player to touch or be touched by the ball before it goes out-of-bounds, even if the ball then goes out-of-bounds by touching something other than a player. 23.2.2 If the ball is out-of-bounds because of touching or being touched by a player who is on or outside the boundary line, this player causes the ball to go out-of-bounds. 23.2.3 If a player moves out-of-bounds or to the player’s backcourt during a held ball, a jump ball situation occurs. Article 24 Dribbling 24.1 Definition 24.1.1 A dribble is the movement of a live ball caused by a player in control of that ball who throws, taps, rolls or bounces the ball on the court. 24.1.2 A dribble starts when a player, having gained control of a live ball on the court throws, taps, rolls or bounces it on the court and touches it again before it touches another player. During a dribble the player may not place any part of the hand under the ball and carry it from one point to another or bring the ball to a pause and then continue to dribble. During a dribble the ball may be thrown into the air provided the ball touches the court or another player before the player who threw it touches it again with the hand. There is no limit to the number of steps a player may take when the ball is not in contact with the hand. October 2024 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 Page 29 of 105 A dribble ends when the player touches the ball with both hands simultaneously or permits the ball to come to rest in one or both hands. 24.1.3 A player who accidentally loses and then regains control of a live ball on the court is considered to have fumbled the ball. 24.1.4 The following are not dribbles: Successive shots for a goal. Fumbling the ball at the start or at the end of a dribble. Attempts to gain control of the ball by tapping it from the vicinity of other players. Tapping the ball from the control of another player. Deflecting a pass and gaining control of the ball. Tossing the ball from hand to hand and allowing it to come to rest in one or both hands before touching the court, provided that no travelling violation is committed. Throwing the ball against the backboard and regaining the control of the ball. 24.2 Rule A player shall not dribble for a second time after the first dribble has ended unless between the 2 dribbles: The control of a live ball on the court is lost because of a shot for a goal. The ball is touched by an opponent. On a pass or fumble the ball touches or is touched by another player. Article 25 Travelling 25.1 Definition 25.1.1 Travelling is the illegal movement of one foot or both feet beyond the limits outlined in this article, in any direction, while holding a live ball on the court. 25.1.2 A pivot is the legal movement in which a player who is holding a live ball on the court steps once or more than once in any direction with the same foot, while the other foot, called the pivot foot, is kept at its point of contact with the court. 25.2 Rule 25.2.1 Establishing a pivot foot by a player who catches a live ball on the court: A player who catches the ball while standing with both feet on the court: ▬ The moment one foot is lifted, the other foot becomes the pivot foot. ▬ To start a dribble, the pivot foot may not be lifted before the ball is released from the hand(s). ▬ To pass or shoot for a goal, the player may jump off a pivot foot, but neither foot may be returned to the court before the ball is released from the hand(s). A player who catches the ball while progressing, or upon completion of a dribble, may take two steps in coming to a stop, passing or shooting the ball: ▬ After receiving the ball, a player shall release the ball to start the dribble before the second step. ▬ The first step occurs when one foot or both feet touch the court after gaining control of the ball. ▬ The second step occurs after the first step when the other foot touches the court or both feet touch the court simultaneously. Page 30 of 105 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 October 2024 ▬ If the player who comes to a stop on the first step has both feet on the court or they touch the court simultaneously, that player may pivot using either foot as the pivot foot. If the player then jumps with both feet, no foot may return to the court before the ball is released from the hand(s). ▬ If a player lands on one foot, only that foot may be used as the pivot foot. ▬ If a player jumps off one foot on the first step, that player may land on both feet simultaneously for the second step. In this case, the player may not pivot with either foot. If one foot or both feet then leave the court, no foot may return to the court before the ball is released from the hand(s). ▬ If both feet are off the court and the player lands on both feet simultaneously, the moment one foot is lifted the other foot becomes the pivot foot. ▬ A player may not touch the court consecutively with the same foot or both feet after ending the dribble or gaining control of the ball. 25.2.2 A player falling, lying or sitting on the court: It is legal when a player falls and slides on the court while holding the ball or, while lying or sitting on the court, gains control of the ball. It is a violation if the player then rolls or attempts to stand up while holding the ball. Article 26 3 seconds 26.1 Rule 26.1.1 A player shall not remain in the opponents' restricted area for more than 3 conse- cutive seconds while the team is in control of a live ball in the frontcourt and the game clock is running. 26.1.2 Allowances must be made for a player who: Attempts to leave the restricted area. Is in the restricted area when that player or the team-mate is in the act of shooting and the ball is leaving or has just left the player's hand(s) on the shot for a goal. Dribbles in the restricted area to shoot for a goal after having been there for less than 3 consecutive seconds. 26.1.3 To be established outside the restricted area, both feet of the player must be placed on the court outside the restricted area. Article 27 Closely guarded player 27.1 Definition A player who is holding a live ball on the court is closely guarded when an opponent is in an active legal guarding position at a distance of no more than 1 m. 27.2 Rule A closely guarded player must pass, shoot or dribble the ball within 5 seconds. October 2024 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 Page 31 of 105 Article 28 8 seconds 28.1 Rule 28.1.1 Whenever: A player in the backcourt gains control of a live ball, or On a throw-in, the ball touches or is legally touched by any player in the back- court and the team of that thrower-in remains in control of the ball in its back- court, that team must cause the ball to go into its frontcourt within 8 seconds. 28.1.2 The team has caused the ball to go into its frontcourt whenever: The ball, not in control of any player, touches the frontcourt. The ball touches or is legally touched by an offensive player who has both feet completely in contact with the frontcourt. The ball touches or is legally touched by a defensive player who has part of the body in contact with the backcourt. The ball touches a referee who has part of the body in contact with the frontcourt of the team in control of the ball. During a dribble from the backcourt to the frontcourt, the ball and both feet of the dribbler are completely in contact with the frontcourt. 28.1.3 The 8-second period shall continue with any time remaining when the same team that previously had control of the ball is awarded a throw-in in the backcourt when: A ball having been caused to go out-of-bounds. A player of the same team having been injured. A technical foul committed by that team. A jump ball situation. A double foul. A cancellation of equal penalties on both teams. Article 29 Shot clock 29.1 Rule 29.1.1 Whenever: A player gains control of a live ball on the court, On a throw-in, the ball touches or is legally touched by any player on the court and the team of the thrower-in remains in control of the ball, that team must attempt a shot for a goal within 24 seconds. To constitute a shot for a goal within 24 seconds: The ball must leave the player's hand(s) before the shot clock signal sounds, and After the ball has left the player's hand(s), the ball must touch the ring or enter the basket. 29.1.2 When a shot for a goal is attempted near the end of the shot clock period and the shot clock signal sounds while the ball is in the air: If the ball enters the basket, no violation has occurred, the signal shall be disregarded and the goal shall count. If the ball touches the ring but does not enter the basket, no violation has occurred, the signal shall be disregarded and the game shall continue. Page 32 of 105 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 October 2024 If the ball misses the ring, a violation has occurred. However, if the opponents gain an immediate and clear control of the ball, the signal shall be disregarded and the game shall continue. When the backboard is equipped with yellow lighting along its perimeter at the top, the lighting takes precedence over the shot clock signal sound. All restrictions related to goaltending and interference shall apply. 29.2 Procedure 29.2.1 After a jump ball at the start of the first quarter or after a throw-in from the centre line at the start of the other quarters or each overtime, if a player gains control of a live ball on the court, regardless of whether in the backcourt or frontcourt, the shot clock shall be started with 24 seconds. 29.2.2 The shot clock shall be reset whenever the game is stopped by a referee: For a foul or violation (not for the ball having been caused to go out-of-bounds) by the team not in control of the ball, For any valid reason caused by the team not in control of the ball, For any valid reason not caused with either team. In these situations, the possession of the ball shall be awarded to the same team that previously had control of the ball. If the throw-in is then administered in that team’s: Backcourt, the shot clock shall be reset to 24 seconds. Frontcourt, the shot clock shall be reset as follows: ▬ If 14 seconds or more are displayed on the shot clock at the time when the game was stopped, the shot clock shall not be reset but shall continue from the time it was stopped. ▬ If 13 seconds or less are displayed on the shot clock at the time when the game was stopped, the shot clock shall be reset to 14 seconds. However, if the game is stopped by a referee for any valid reason not connected with either team or the reset of the shot clock would place the opponents at a disadvantage, the shot clock shall continue from the time it was stopped. 29.2.3 The shot clock shall be reset whenever a throw-in is awarded to the opponents’ team after the game is stopped by a referee for a foul or violation (including for the ball having been caused to go out-of-bounds) by the team in control of the ball. The shot clock shall also be reset if the new offensive team is awarded a throw-in according to the alternating possession procedure. If the throw-in is then administered in that team’s: Backcourt, the shot clock shall be reset to a new 24 seconds. Frontcourt, the shot clock shall be reset to 14 seconds. 29.2.4 Whenever the game is stopped by a referee for a technical foul committed by the team in control of the ball, the game shall be resumed with a throw-in from the place nearest to where the game was stopped. The shot clock shall not be reset but shall continue from the time it was stopped. 29.2.5 When the game clock shows 2:00 minutes or less in the fourth quarter or overtime, following a time-out taken by the team entitled to the possession of the ball from its backcourt, the head coach of that team has the right to decide whether the game shall be resumed with a throw-in from the throw-in line in the team’s frontcourt or from the team’s backcourt at the place nearest to where the game was stopped. October 2024 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 Page 33 of 105 After the time-out, the throw-in shall be administered as follows: If as a result of the ball having gone out-of-bounds and if from the team's: ▬ Backcourt, the shot clock shall continue from the time it was stopped. ▬ Frontcourt: If the shot clock shows 13 seconds or less it shall continue from the time it was stopped. If the shot clock shows 14 seconds or more, it shall be reset to 14 seconds. If as a result of a foul or violation (not for the ball having gone out-of-bounds) and if from the team's: ▬ Backcourt, the shot clock shall be reset to 24 seconds. ▬ Frontcourt, the shot clock shall be reset to 14 seconds. If the time-out is taken by the team which has a new control of the ball, and if from the team's: ▬ Backcourt, the shot clock shall be reset to 24 seconds. ▬ Frontcourt, the shot clock shall be reset to 14 seconds. 29.2.6 When the team is awarded a throw-in from the throw-in line in the team’s frontcourt, opposite the scorer’s table, as part of the penalty for an unsportsmanlike or disqualifying foul, the shot clock shall be reset to 14 seconds. 29.2.7 After the ball has touched the ring of the opponents’ basket, the shot clock shall be reset to: 24 seconds, if the opponents’ team gains control of the ball. 14 seconds, if the team which regains control of the ball is the same team that was in control of the ball before the ball touched the ring. 29.2.8 If the shot clock signal sounds in error while a team has control of the ball or neither team has control of the ball, the signal shall be disregarded and the game shall continue. However, if the team in control of the ball has been placed at a disadvantage, the game shall be stopped, the shot clock shall be corrected and possession of the ball shall be awarded to that team. Article 30 Ball returned to the backcourt 30.1 Definition 30.1.1 A team is in control of a live ball in its frontcourt when: A player of that team is touching the frontcourt with both feet while holding, catching or dribbling the ball in the frontcourt, or The ball is passed between the players of that team in the frontcourt. 30.1.2 A team in control of a live ball in the frontcourt has illegally returned the ball to its backcourt, if a player of that team is the last to touch the ball in the frontcourt and the ball is then first touched by a player of that team: Who has part of the body in contact with the backcourt, or After the ball has touched the backcourt of that team. This restriction applies to all situations in a team's frontcourt, including throw-ins. However, it does not apply to a player who jumps from the frontcourt, establishes a new team control while still airborne and then lands with the ball in the team’s backcourt. Page 34 of 105 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 October 2024 30.2 Rule A team which is in control of a live ball in its frontcourt may not cause the ball to be illegally returned to its backcourt. 30.3 Penalty The ball shall be awarded to the opponents for a throw-in in its frontcourt from the place nearest to the infraction except from directly behind the backboard. Article 31 Goaltending and Interference 31.1 Definition 31.1.1 A shot for a goal or a free throw: Starts when the ball leaves the hand(s) of a player in the act of shooting. Ends when the ball: ▬ Enters the basket directly from above and remains within the basket or passes through the basket entirely. ▬ No longer has the possibility to enter the basket. ▬ Touches the ring. ▬ Touches the floor. ▬ Becomes dead. 31.2 Rule 31.2.1 Goaltending occurs during a shot for a goal when a player touches the ball while it is completely above the level of the ring and: It is on its downward flight to the basket, or After it has touched the backboard. 31.2.2 Goaltending occurs during a shot for a free throw when a player touches the ball while it is in flight to the basket and before it touches the ring. 31.2.3 The goaltending restrictions apply until the ball: No longer has the possibility to enter the basket. Has touched the ring. 31.2.4 Interference occurs when: After a shot for a goal or the last free throw a player touches the basket or the backboard while the ball is in contact with the ring. After a free throw followed by an additional free throw(s), a player touches the ball, the basket or the backboard while the ball has still a possibility to enter the basket. A player reaches through the basket from below and touches the ball. A defensive player touches the ball or the basket while the ball is within the basket, thus preventing the ball from passing through the basket. A player causes the basket to vibrate or grasps the basket (ring and/or net) in such a way that causes the ball to take an unnatural bounce or to change direction, thus the ball is prevented from entering the basket or is caused to enter the basket. A player grasps the basket and plays the ball. October 2024 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 Page 35 of 105 31.2.5 When: A referee has blown the whistle while the ball was: ▬ In the hands of a player in the act of shooting, or ▬ In flight on a shot for a goal or on a last free throw, The game clock signal has sounded for the end of the quarter or overtime, No player shall touch the ball after it has touched the ring while it still has the possibility to enter the basket. All restrictions related to goaltending and interference shall apply. 31.3 Penalty 31.3.1 If the violation is committed by an offensive player, no points can be awarded. The ball shall be awarded to the opponents for a throw-in from the free-throw line exten- ded, unless otherwise stated in these rules. 31.3.2 If the violation is committed by a defensive player, the offensive team shall be awarded: 1 point, if the ball was released for a free throw. 2 points, if the ball was released from the 2-point goal area. 3 points, if the ball was released from the 3-point goal area. The awarding of the points is considered as if the ball had entered the basket. 31.3.3 If the violation is committed by a defensive player during a last free throw, 1 point shall be awarded to the offensive team, followed by a technical foul penalty charged against the defensive player. Page 36 of 105 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 October 2024 RULE SIX – FOULS Article 32 Fouls 32.1 Definition 32.1.1 A foul is an infraction of the rules concerning illegal personal contact with an oppo- nent and/or unsportsmanlike behaviour. 32.1.2 Any number of fouls may be called against a team. Irrespective of the penalty, each foul shall be charged, entered on the scoresheet against the offender and penalised according to these rules. 32.1.3 If a foul is committed after the ball has become dead when the game clock signal sounds for the end of the quarter or each overtime, an infraction is committed, it shall be disregarded unless it is a technical, unsportsmanlike or disqualifying foul. Article 33 Contact: General principles 33.1 Cylinder principle The cylinder principle is defined as the space within an imaginary cylinder occupied by a player on the court. The dimensions, and the distance between the player’s feet, shall vary according to the height and size of the player. It includes the space above the player and is limited to the boundaries of the cylinder of the defensive player or the offensive player without the ball which are: The front by the palms of the hands, The rear by the buttocks, and The sides by the outer edge of the arms and legs. The hands and arms may be extended in front of the torso no further than the position of the feet and knees, with the arms bent at the elbows so that the forearms and hands are raised in the legal guarding position. The defensive player may not enter the cylinder of the offensive player with the ball and cause an illegal contact when the offensive player is attempting a normal basketball play within the cylinder. The boundaries of the cylinder of the offensive player with the ball are: The front by the feet, bent knees and arms, holding the ball above the hips, The rear by the buttocks, and The sides by the outer edge of elbows and legs. The offensive player with the ball must be allowed enough space for a normal basket- ball play within the cylinder. The normal basketball play includes starting a dribble, pivoting, shooting and passing. The offensive player cannot spread the legs or arms outside of the cylinder and cause an illegal contact with the defensive player in order to gain an additional space. October 2024 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 Page 37 of 105 Diagram 6 Cylinder principle 33.2 Principle of verticality During the game, each player has the right to occupy any position (cylinder) on the court not already occupied by an opponent. This principle protects the space on the court which the player occupies and the space above when jumping vertically within that space. When the player leaves the vertical position (cylinder) and body contact occurs with an opponent who had already established that player’s own vertical position (cylin- der), the player who left the vertical position (cylinder) is responsible for the contact. The defensive player must not be penalised for leaving the court vertically (within the cylinder) or having the hands and arms extended above and within that player’s own cylinder. The offensive player, whether on the court or airborne, shall not cause contact with the defensive player in a legal guarding position by: Using the arms to create more space (pushing off). Spreading the legs or arms during or immediately after a shot for a goal. 33.3 Legal guarding position A defensive player has established an initial legal guarding position when facing the opponent, and having both feet on the court. The legal guarding position extends vertically above (within the cylinder) from the court to the ceiling. The defensive player may raise the arms and hands above the head or jump vertically but that player must maintain them in a vertical position inside the imaginary cylinder. 33.4 Guarding a player who controls the ball When guarding a player who controls (holding or dribbling) the ball, the elements of time and distance do not apply. The player with the ball must expect to be guarded and must be prepared to stop or change direction whenever an opponent takes an initial legal guarding position in front of that offensive player, even if this is done within a fraction of a second. The guarding (defensive) player must establish an initial legal guarding position without causing contact before establishing the defensive position. Page 38 of 105 OFFICIAL BASKETBALL RULES 2024 October 2024 Once the defensive player has established an initial legal guarding position, that player may move to guard the opponent, but may not extend the arms, shoulders, hips or legs to prevent the dribbler from passing by. When judging a charge/block situation involving a player with the ball, a referee shall use the following principles: The defensive player must establish an initial legal guarding position by facing the player with the ball and having both feet on the court. The defensive player may remain stationary, jump vertically, move laterally or backwards in order to maintain the initial legal guarding position. When moving to maintain the initial legal guarding position, one foot or both feet may be off the court for an instant, as long as the movement is lateral or backwards, but not towards the player with the ball. Contact must occur on the torso, in which case the defensive player would be considered as having been at the place of contact first. Having established a legal guarding position, the defensive player may turn within the cylinder to avoid injury. In any of the above situations, the contact shall be considered as having been caused

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