Case Book
What are the proper measurements of the following? (1) Court size (2) Free throw circle radius (3) Height and width of the backboard (4) Inside diameter of the basket ring (5) Face of backboard to inside the basket ring (6) Height of the basket ring from the floor (7) Width of the foul lane key area (8) From free throw line to backboard (9) From endline to backboard (10) Hash mark (11) Three-point field goal line
(1) 94 ft. long x 50 ft. wide (2) 6 ft. (3) 3 1/2 ft. high x 6 ft. wide (4) 18 in. (5) 6 in. (6) 10 ft. (7) 16 ft. (8) 15 ft. (9) 4 ft. (10) 28 ft. from endline (11) 23 ft., 9 in
With the ball in Team A's backcourt, a technical foul is called on: (1) Player A1 (2) Player B1. Upon resumption of play, does Team A get a new eight seconds to get the ball into the frontcourt?
(1) No. (2) Yes.
What is the ruling if the officials are notified of the following between periods? (1) Team A attempted an unmerited free throw(s) which was successful. (2) Team A did not attempt merited free throw(s) from a common foul.
(1) The point(s) are subtracted if more than 24 seconds have elapsed. (2) The officials shall check the play-by-play and if Team A scored a successful field goal or was awarded free throw attempts as the result of a personal foul on the next possession, the error will be ignored if more than 24 seconds have elapsed. If neither occurred, the offended player will attempt his free throw(s) and play will resume where it was interrupted. If 24 or less seconds have elapsed, the game clock shall be reset to the time of the foul and the offended player will attempt his free throw(s) and play shall resume as after any free throw attempts, whether made or missed. All play shall be nullified except acts of unsportsmanlike conduct and all flagrant fouls and points scored there-from. NOTE: Errors which occur in the first or third periods must be discovered and corrected before the start of the next period. Errors which occur in the second period must be discovered and the official scorer notified prior to the officials leaving the floor at the end of the period. The error must be rectified prior to the start of the third period.
Player A1 is driving to the basket for a lay-up. What is the deciding point between block or charge?
A defender must establish his position before the offensive player starts his upward shooting motion with the ball in order to draw an offensive foul. The defender must get his torso directly into the offensive player's path and be at the spot prior to the upward shooting motion starting in order to draw an offensive foul. The defender is allowed to 'firm-up,' move his feet and/or turn slightly to better absorb the contact.
Player A1 fumbles a pass near the sideline at the bench of Team B. The ball crosses the plane of the sideline and touches the coach of Team B who is standing on the sideline. Player A1 would have been able to recover the ball, if it had not been touched.
A delay-of-game shall be issued to Team B. Team A is awarded the ball out-of-bounds on the sideline nearest the spot of the violation. A coach not seated on the bench has a responsibility not to interfere with a live ball.
A pass from Player A1 to Player A2 is deflected by Player B1. With the ball near the sideline, the coach of Team A secures possession. It is determined by the official that Player B1 could have saved the ball from going out-of-bounds, but was denied that opportunity by the action of the coach. What is the ruling?
A delay-of-game warning is issued to Team A and the ball is awarded to Team B out-of-bounds on the sideline nearest the spot of the violation. If a previous delay-of-game warning has been issued to Team A, a technical foul shall be assessed.
A bad pass from Player A1 to Player A2 is grabbed by the coach of Team B on the sideline. It is determined by the official that Player A2 could have saved the ball from going out-of-bounds, but was denied that opportunity by action of the coach. There is less than 14 seconds on the 24-second clock when this occurs. What is the ruling?
A delay-of-game warning is issued to Team B and ball is awarded to Team A on the sideline nearest the spot of the violation. The 24-second clock shall be reset to 14 seconds.
Following a successful field goal by Team B, Player A1's backcourt pass to Player A2 is touched by Player B6 who is seated on Team B's bench. There are 18 seconds remaining on the 24-second clock. It is the opinion of the officials that Player A2 could have saved the errant pass. What is the ruling?
A delay-of-game warning is issued to Team B if the ball had crossed over the boundary line when it was interfered with by Player B6. If Player B6 reached onto the court and touched the ball, he would receive an unsportsmanlike technical foul. In either case, Team A will receive a new 8 seconds to advance the ball into the frontcourt. The "magic" number on the 24-second clock is 9.
Player A1 is dribbling the ball and Player B1 jumps into his path. What is the deciding point between block or charge?
A dribbler is expected to be in control at all times and if a defender can legally get to a 'spot' in the path of the dribbler, it is the dribbler's responsibility to stop and/or change direction immediately. However, if a defender cannot completely get his torso in his path without making contact, a blocking foul should be called.
With :03.5 remaining in the fourth period and Team A leading 110-109, Team B has the ball out-of-bounds. Player A1, who is guarding the thrower-in, jumps up and down attempting to make it difficult for Player B1 to execute the throw-in. In so doing, he breaks the plane of the out-of-bounds line by landing out-of-bounds on several jumps. What is the ruling?
A non-unsportsmanlike technical foul shall be called because the game is in the last two minutes of the fourth period. It is recommended that the official administering the throw-in warn Player A1 to keep his hands and feet from breaking the vertical plane of the boundary line, prior to awarding the ball to Player B1.
Officials disagree on a block/charge situation not involving the restricted area, with one official immediately signalling a blocking foul on Player B1, while the other official is signalling an offensive foul on Player A1. How is this play administered?
A personal foul is assessed both players and play is resumed with a jump ball at the center circle between any two opposing players.
A double foul is called on Players A1 and B1, while Player A2 is dribbling the ball in the backcourt. What is the ruling?
A personal foul is charged to Player A1 and Player B1. No team fouls are charged to either team and no free throws are awarded. The ball is awarded to Team A on the sideline at the nearest spot where play was interrupted but not nearer the baseline than the free throw line extended. The 24-second clock is reset to 24 seconds.
While Player A1's unsuccessful field goal is in the air, a double foul is called on Players A2 and B2. What is the correct procedure?
A personal foul is charged to Player A2 and Player B2. No team fouls are charged to either team and no free throws are awarded. Play is resumed with a jump ball at the center circle between any two players who were in the game when the double foul occurred. The 24-second clock is reset to 24 seconds.
Player B4 fouls Player A4 with :10.0 remaining in the first period. The scoring table incorrectly informs the officials that it is the first team foul in the last two minutes. Between periods, it is brought to the attention of the officials that a penalty situation existed. How is this handled?
After the teams return to the floor, the clock will be reset to :10.0, all action which took place in the final 10 seconds will be deleted (except for unsportsmanlike acts and all flagrant fouls and points scored therefrom) and Player A4 will be given two free throws and play will continue until the end of the period. The second period will then be started without an additional break. All action in the last 10 seconds is counted in the first period.
The game ends tied, 105-105. Prior to the beginning of the overtime, it is brought to the attention of the officials that Team A had requested and received an excessive timeout in the fourth period. How is this handled?
An overtime period will be played. Any error not discovered prior to the end of the fourth period cannot be penalized.
The Scorer's Table fails to notify the officials that Team A is in the penalty when a common foul occurs with 5:50 remaining in the period. The error is discovered with 2:30 remaining in the same period. How is the play administered?
As soon as the ball is dead or Team A has possession and not on a fast break, the scorer's table shall notify the officials. If the play-by-play shows that Team A scored a successful field goal or was awarded free throw attempts as the result of a personal foul on the next possession, the error shall be ignored. If it does not show either, the player who was fouled shall attempt 1 plus 1 for 2 free throws. Play is resumed at the point of interruption.
A frontcourt pass from Player A1 to Player A2 goes into the backcourt and is recovered by Player A3 near the baseline. Where is the throw-in administered?
At the midcourt line.
Player A1 attempts a two-point field goal and, while the ball is in the air, Players A2 and B2 are called for a double foul. The field goal is successful. What is the ruling?
Award two points to Team A and charge a personal foul to Player A2 and Player B2. No team foul is assessed to either team and the 24-second clock is reset to 24 seconds. Play shall resume with the ball being awarded to Team B for a throw-in on the baseline.
Common fouls are committed by Player B1 and Player B2, respectively, with 1:51 and :55.5 remaining in the third period. The scoring table and the officials fail to recognize that a penalty situation exists after the second personal is committed and the ball is awarded out-of-bounds to Team A. At :34.4, following a personal foul by Player B2 on Player A3 who is in the act of shooting, the officials are notified that the free throws should have been awarded on the second personal foul by Player B2 at :55.5. What is the ruling?
Because less than 24 seconds have expired, the game clock shall be reset to 55.5 and all play and points scored during that period of time shall be nullified, with the exception of unsportsmanlike acts and all flagrant fouls and points scored there-from.
With 9:23 remaining in the fourth period, Team B's coach registers a complaint with the officials, stating that his timeout total is incorrect in the Official Scorebook. It is discovered that he had been erroneously charged with a regular timeout instead of a 20-second timeout, at 2:16 in the second period. The 20-second timeout would have forced Team A to take a regular timeout. What is the procedure?
Charge Team A with a regular timeout, Team B with a 20-second timeout and add a regular timeout to Team B's remaining total. This error may be corrected anytime prior to the end of the fourth period. No technical foul can be called if the correction results in Team A being charged an excessive timeout.
During timeouts, what restrictions are on Coaches, Players and Team Personnel as to where they may position themselves on the court?
Coaches, Players and Team Personnel may position themselves anywhere on their half of the court on the bench side of center court. If they cross past the imaginary line from rim-to-rim, they will be escorted back to their area and advised of the restriction.
How many seconds is Team A allowed to control the ball while in the backcourt?
Eight seconds. The restriction ends when the ball breaks the plane of the midcourt line when not in player control. When dribbling, the count ends when the ball and both feet of the player are in the frontcourt.
With :05.8 remaining in the first period, Player A1 is assessed a punching foul. The officials erroneously fail to eject Player A1, who then scores the last field goal of the period, following a throw-in violation by Team B. Between periods, it is brought to their attention that a rule has been set aside. What is the ruling?
Failure of the officials, or of the scorer's table to notify the officials, to eject or disqualify a player is not a correctable error. Whenever the mistake is discovered, the player shall be removed immediately, his coach will pick a substitute and play will commence from the point of interruption.
Defensive Player B1 is injured on the court as Player A2 advances the ball in the backcourt. Player B2 is told to foul his man and just prior to illegal contact, Player A2 gathers the ball. Following the foul player A2 takes 2 steps and shoots the ball from the backcourt. Three free throws should be awarded if the shot is unsuccessful.
False, when a player takes a foul to stop play on the perimeter, the offensive player must be in his upward motion to shoot when the contact occurs to be given continuation.
With 7:30 remaining in the second period, it is discovered that Team B was erroneously awarded the ball to start the period. How is the error corrected?
If any throw-in begins with the wrong team being awarded possession, and the error is discovered: (1) after 24 seconds have elapsed, the error cannot be corrected. (2) with 24 seconds or less having elapsed, all play shall be nullified. EXCEPTION: Acts of unsportsmanlike conduct and all flagrant fouls and points scored there-from, shall NOT be nullified.
Defensive Player B1 has his arm extended forward while guarding Player A1 on the perimeter. Player A1 'rips thru' the extended arm and continues to shoot a jump shot. Is this continuation?
If the contact occurs during the side-to-side movement during the rip thru, this is not a continuation play. If the contact is after the side-toside movement and during his upward movement to shoot, continuation shall be awarded.
Player B1 intercepts a frontcourt pass from Player A1 to Player A2 and is grabbed from behind as he crosses into his frontcourt on the left side of the court. Player A3 is ahead of Player B1 on the right side of the court when Player B1 is fouled. Is this a clear-path-to-the-basket foul?
If the officials judge that Player A3 could have attained a position between the ball and the basket, then it is a common foul and not a clear-path-to-the-basket foul. If the officials judge that Player A3 could not have attained a position between the ball and the basket, then a clear-path-to-the-basket foul has occurred. On the same play, if Player A3 was not ahead of Player B1, then a clear-path- to-the-basket foul must be called.
When dribbling, Player A1 steps out-of-bounds but is not in contact with the ball. He then returns inbounds and continues his dribble. Is this legal or illegal?
Illegal. Player A1 cannot be the first player to touch the ball after going out-of-bounds, until it is touched by another player on the court.
Having been the first to gain possession after a jump ball, Player A1 dribbles or passes the ball into the backcourt. This is done after Player A1 has assumed a positive position in the frontcourt. Legal or illegal?
Illegal. Player A1 has established a positive position in the frontcourt.
Player A1 is attempting a free throw which is to be followed by another free throw. Player B1: (1) raises his arms above his head while positioned on the lane line, or (2) makes a sudden dash upcourt while within the visual field of Player A1, or (3) waves his arms, or (4) yells to a teammate, or (5) talks in a loud manner, or (6) enters the lane and continues to move.
In (1) through (6) above, Player B1 has disconcerted the free throw shooter. The violation is penalized by awarding a substitute free throw only if the attempt is unsuccessful.
A regular timeout is called by Team A with the ball in the backcourt and 17 seconds remaining on the 24-second clock. How much time does Team A have remaining to legally advance the ball into the frontcourt?
More than 1 second. 15 is the "magic" number on the 24-second clock.
Defensive Player B1 has his arm extended to his side while guarding Player A1 on the perimeter. In an attempt to draw a shooting foul, Player A1 lunges away from the basket and extends his shooting arm up and under the defenders arm and then shoots the ball towards the basket. Is this continuation?
No, while this is a defensive foul, it is not considered in the act of shooting.
Player A1 has possession of the ball in the frontcourt. He passes the ball to Player A2 who is still in the air after having leaped from his backcourt. Is this legal?
No. A backcourt violation has occurred. Player A2 must establish a position on the floor in the frontcourt prior to touching the pass from Player A1. The same restrictions also apply for players coming from out-of-bounds to receive a pass or to retrieve a loose ball. A player must first establish at least one foot on the floor prior to touching the ball.
Player A1 is running up the court and catches an outlet pass near midcourt and immediately crashes into defender B1 who is standing in a stationary position. Is this a legal defensive position to draw an offensive foul?
No. A defender must allow any offensive player who receives a pass outside the Lower Defensive Box the opportunity to stop and/or change direction.
Player A1 straddles the midcourt line and, without moving forward, dribbles the ball in the frontcourt while in this position. Is this a violation?
No. A player dribbling the ball is considered in the backcourt if either foot or the ball is in the backcourt.
Player A1 who is holding the ball, touches the floor with the ball one or more times. Is this a violation?
No. A player holding the ball can touch the ball to the floor without penalty.
On an unsuccessful field goal attempt, the ball hits the basket ring and rebounds over and behind the face of the backboard. The ball returns to the floor and touches inbounds without having touched any of the backboard supports. Is the ball to remain in play?
No. A violation shall be called on the last team to touch the ball before it went directly behind the backboard. The ball is awarded to the opposing team for a throw-in at the free throw line extended.
Player A1 has control of the ball near the endline and passes the ball behind the backboard (never touching the supports) to Player A2. Is this legal or illegal?
No. A violation shall be called on the last team to touch the ball before it went directly behind the backboard. The ball is awarded to the opposing team for a throw-in at the free throw line extended.
A player in control of the ball in backcourt approaches the midcourt line. After stopping his dribble in the backcourt, he straddles the midcourt line. Is this a violation?
No. As long as any part of his person is touching the backcourt, Player A1 is considered backcourt. He may legally bring his front foot (non pivot) back and forth between the front and the backcourt.
Team A is granted a 20-second timeout with the ball in the frontcourt and :21.5 remaining in the fourth period. On the throw-in, the ball is thrown into the backcourt where it is caught and controlled by Player A2. Is this a violation?
No. During the last two minutes of the fourth period and/or overtime, the ball may be inbounded anywhere on the court.
The playing captain of Team A is seated on the bench after being disqualified because of six personal fouls. Team A calls a timeout and one of the other players on the court wishes to discuss a rule with the officials. Is this legal?
No. If the original captain is still seated on the bench, he will represent his team. If, for any reason, he is no longer seated on the bench, the head coach must appoint another captain.
Team A calls a regular timeout. The captain of Team B wishes to discuss a rule interpretation with the officials. Is this allowed?
No. Only the captain of the team which called the timeout may question the officials. At this time he may only ask about a specific rule interpretation, but not about a judgment call.
Following a jump ball at the center circle, the ball is tapped toward the sideline. Player A1 leaps across the mid-court line into the frontcourt, having last touched the playing surface in his backcourt. He controls the ball while in mid-air and throws it to Player A2 who is positioned in his backcourt. Is this a backcourt violation?
No. Player A1 never established a positive position in the frontcourt.
Player A1 throws a pass from his backcourt to Player A2 who receives it under the backboard near the baseline. Simultaneous with Player A2 receiving the pass, he is fouled by Player B2. Can a clear-path-to-the-basket foul be assessed?
No. Player A2 has already acquired a position under the backboard and past the basket; therefore, a common foul shall be assessed.
Player A1 recovers a loose ball in his backcourt and leads a fast break. As he enters his frontcourt he avoids defender B1 who is ahead of him but is then fouled from behind by B1 near the 3-point line with no other defenders ahead of him. Is this a clear-path-to-the-basket foul?
No. Since the defender who committed the foul was ahead of A1 when he entered the frontcourt, no Clear Path foul can be assessed.
Following a successful field goal attempt, Player B1 attempts a throw-in but fails to step out-of-bounds. Is this a delay-of-game?
No. Team A is awarded the ball at the spot of the attempted throw-in. Player B1 is responsible for proper administration of the throw-in within five seconds.
Following a successful field goal, Player A1 is advancing the ball toward the midcourt line. The 24-second clock now indicates 16. Has a violation occurred?
No. The "magic" number on the 24-second clock is 15. The ball must attain frontcourt status by that time or a violation of the 8-second rule has occurred.
Player A1 attempts a field goal that Player B1 bats against the backboard. Is this a violation?
No. The batting of the ball is legal unless it violates Rule 11.
Player B1 rebounds an unsuccessful field goal attempt by Player A1 and attempts a pass to Player B2 near the midcourt line. Player A2 intercepts the pass while in midair and lands (in what would have been) Team B's frontcourt. Is this a backcourt violation by Player A2?
No. The defensive team does not have a frontcourt/backcourt. Therefore, Player A2 shall be ruled as being in his backcourt when he lands with the ball in his control and establishes a positive position.
Is it always a blocking foul if the secondary defender is inside the restricted area?
No. The restricted area does not apply to any drive that does not go directly to the rim, which starts inside the Lower Defensive Box, if the offensive player wipes out, leads with a foot or knee or if the defensive player makes a legitimate attempt to defend the shot.
Where and how is the ball put into play on all backcourt violations?
On all backcourt violations, the ball is moved to the midcourt line and must be passed into the frontcourt of the team now in possession. However, in the last two minutes of the fourth period and/or overtime, the ball may be passed anywhere on the court.
The officials eject a coach from the game. After leaving the bench, what restrictions are placed on him?
Once a coach is ejected from the game, he must remain in the dressing room of his team or leave the building. Violation of this rule is reported to the League Office and carries an automatic $500 fine. The use of messengers and/or any electronic devices to transmit information from the ejected coach to the bench is in vio lation of the spirit of this rule and is subject to appropriate penal ties.
Player A2 commits a foul with :50.3 remaining in the fourth period. The coach of Team B believes that it is his sixth personal foul, but the official scorer states that he only has five personal fouls. With :20.7 remaining, Player B2 fouls Player A2 while attempting to block his shot. It is now discovered that Player A2 has committed six personal fouls. What is the ruling?
Player A2 is removed from the game immediately. The coach of Team A will select a replacement from his bench. That replacement will attempt the free throw(s) and remain in the game until he can legally be replaced. Unless the official knows otherwise, he will accept the Official Scorer's records as to the number of fouls.
During the last two minutes of the fourth period, Player A1 is attempting to inbound the ball at the midcourt line. Player B1 fouls Player A2, who is on the opposite side of the court and not attempting to receive the inbounds pass. How is this play administered?
Player B1 is assessed an away-from-the-play foul and Team B a team foul. Any player in the game on Team A shall attempt one free throw. The ball is awarded to Team A at midcourt where the play was interrupted.
During the last two minutes of the fourth period, Player A1 is out-of-bounds and is attempting to inbound the ball. Player B1 reaches across the out-of-bounds line and fouls Player A1. How is this administered?
Player B1 is assessed an away-from-the-play foul. One free throw attempt is awarded, regardless of the penalty situation. The free throw may be attempted by any of the five players in the game at the time. The ball is then awarded to Team A for a throw-in at the previous spot with all privileges remaining.
During the last two minutes of the fourth period, Player A1 is dribbling the ball in the frontcourt and Player B2 deliberately fouls Player A2 who is not in the play. What is the ruling?
Player B2 is assessed an away-from-the-play foul and Team B a team foul. Any player in the game on Team A shall attempt one free throw. The ball is awarded to Team A on the sideline where the play was interrupted but no nearer to the baseline than the free throw line extended. The 24-second clock shall remain the same as when play was interrupted or reset to 14 seconds, whichever is greater.
Prior to Player A1 releasing the ball on a throw-in at 1:23 of overtime, a flagrant foul is called when Player B2 knocks Player A2 to the floor. What is the ruling?
Player B2 is charged with a flagrant foul and since it is away-from-theplay, any player in the game for Team A shall attempt two free throws. If a flagrant foul penalty 1 is ruled, the ball is awarded to Team A at the free throw line extended on either sideline as after any flagrant foul.
Player A2 secures a rebound from an unsuccessful field goal attempt by Player B1. Player A1 has never crossed midcourt and is standing near the free throw line in his frontcourt. As Player A2 prepares to throw a long pass to Player A1 for an uncontested layup, he is fouled by Player B3. What is the ruling if it is the third team foul assessed Team B?
Player B3 is assessed a personal foul and Team B a team foul. Team A is awarded the ball out-of-bounds on the sideline. If, however, Player A2 released the ball and it was above the tip-of-circle in the backcourt and, in the officials judgement, it was catchable by Player A1, which would have resulted in a clear-path-to-the-basket, then Player A2 would be awarded two free throws. Team A will also retain possession on the sideline nearest where play was interrupted but no nearer to the baseline than the free throw line extended.
While Player A1 is dribbling the ball near the 28' hash mark, the lead official calls an offensive foul on Player A2 in the post and simultaneously the slot official calls an impede on defensive Player B5 for not giving Player A5 the freedom to move. How is this handled?
Players A2 and B5 shall be charged with personal fouls but no team fouls will be charged. Team A will inbound on the sideline nearest the point of interruption and the 24 second clock will remain the same or reset to 14, whichever is greater. This is not considered a difference of opinion since it is not the same contact they are calling.
The Scorer's Table fails to notify the officials that Team A is in the penalty with 4:42 left in the period when Player A1 is fouled. On the following possession Player B1 flagrantly fouls Player A2 and he makes both free throws. At 4:20 the Scorer's Table notifies the officials that Player A1 should have shot the penalty when he was fouled at 4:42. How is the play administered?
Since the correctable error was discovered within 24 seconds, the game clock is reset to 4:42 and Player A1 is given two free throw attempts. The personal foul, team foul and two points scored from the flagrant foul by B1 will not be nullified. The ball will remain in play after Player A1's free throw attempts, whether made or missed.
The teams line up improperly to begin the game. Team A scores four points and six seconds have elapsed from the game clock. At this point, the officials recognize the error. How is this administered?
Since the error is recognized prior to 24 seconds having elapsed, all points and statistics are erased except unsportsmanlike acts and all flagrant fouls and points scored there-from and the game is restarted with the teams properly lined up. If the error is discovered after 24 seconds of play, the game would continue without changing baskets and all points would count. (11:36-restart; 11:35-do not restart).
Player A1 is fouled just as he is completing his dribble and gathering the ball on his drive to the basket. If he continues his shooting motion and scores a successful basket, how many free throws are awarded?
Since the player's shooting motion continued and he was fouled upon gathering the ball on his drive to the basket, the basket shall count and Player A1 will receive one free throw attempt.
With the ball still in Team A's backcourt, Team B causes the ball to go out-of bounds. How many total seconds is Team A allowed to advance the ball into frontcourt?
Team A is allowed a total of 8 seconds to advance the ball into the frontcourt, regardless of the number of times the ball is deflected out-ofbounds by the defense. A new 8 seconds will be given to Team A only when Team B: (1) commits a personal foul while not in a penalty situation, or (2) deliberately kicks the ball, or (3) deliberately punches the ball, or (4) has a technical foul assessed, or (5) has a delay-of-game warning, or (6) play is suspended due to infection control for either team. Team A will also receive a new 8 seconds if the ball is recovered in the backcourt following any jump balls.
Player A6 is at the scorer's table and the timer sounds the horn for him to enter the game. At this time the beckoning official observes the player's shirt is not tucked in. What is the ruling?
Team A is assessed a delay-of-game whenever a substitute is beckoned from the scorer's table and his shirt is not tucked into his shorts.
At 4:56 Player A4's unsuccessful free throw is tapped in by Player A5 and it is then noticed that Team A had 6 players on the court. How is this handled?
Team A is assessed a technical foul and any player in the game may attempt the one free throw. The coach of Team B will then be given the option of continuing play from the point of interruption or resetting the game clock to 4:56, nullifying the basket by A5 followed by a jump ball at center court between any two players who were in the game.
Team A inbounds at 3:45 of the period and following a successful basket at 3:40, the officials halt play because Team B has 6 players on the court. How is this handled?
Team B is assessed a technical foul and any player on Team A in the game may attempt one free throw. The coach of Team A will then be given the option of continuing play from the point of interruption or resetting the game clock to 3:45 and nullifying the successful basket.
At 6:56 of the 3rd period, Player B1 flagrantly fouls Player A2 on a successful field goal. The officials incorrectly award Player A2 one free throw attempt which he misses. Team A inbounds the ball at the free throw line extended and Player B3 fouls Player A4 in the act of shooting at 6:35. It is then discovered that Player A2 should have received two free throw attempts to score one point because of the flagrant foul. How is the play administered?
The fact that the error is from a free throw attempt that would not have remained in play, the 24 second exception does not apply. The clock remains at 6:35, Player A2 will attempt his second free throw because he missed the first and the play will continue after Player A4's free throw attempts, whether made or missed.
Prior to 24 seconds having elapsed from the game clock, it is discovered that Player A1 did not attempt merited free throws as the result of a common foul and no points were scored on the subsequent possession. What is the ruling?
The game clock is reset to the time the personal foul was committed and play shall resume as after any other free throw attempts, whether made or missed. All play shall be nullified except acts of unsportsmanlike conduct and all flagrant fouls and points score there-from. The fact that Team A did not score a successful field goal or shoot free throws as the result of a personal foul on the next possession has no bearing on the play since the error was discovered within 24 seconds.
A player in control of the ball has stopped his dribble in the frontcourt and is very close to the midcourt line. While being played extremely close by an opponent he steps into the backcourt. Is this a backcourt violation?
The official must judge this as: (1) a personal foul on the defensive player if illegal contact caused him to step into the backcourt (2) a traveling violation if the step was illegal (3) a backcourt violation.
Team A has just scored a field goal or a free throw. As the ball is dropping to the floor, Player A2 bats the ball away. What is the correct ruling?
The official will issue a delay-of-game warning and notify the official scorer. If Team A had been guilty of a previous violation, a technical foul is called. Following the warning or a technical foul, Team B shall have the privilege of running the baseline. If, despite the warning and subsequent technical foul(s), this act is repeated, the official shall inform the head coach that he is responsible. Any further violations will become an unsportsmanlike act, charged to the head coach, for making a travesty of the game.
Team A scores a field goal and Player B1 retrieves the ball near the sideline. He attempts to pass the ball to Player B2, who is out-of-bounds on the baseline, ready to throw the ball inbounds. Player A1 intercepts the ball. What is the ruling?
The official will issue a delay-of-game warning on Team A and award the ball to Team B on the baseline, if he feels that Player A1's action was deliberate. If a previous delay-of-game warning has been issued to Team A, a technical foul shall be assessed.
A traveling violation is called on Player A1. Player A1 throws the ball to the official at the other end of the floor, instead of the official administering the throw-in. What is the ruling?
The official will issue a delay-of-game warning to Team A and could assess Player A1 with an unsportsmanlike technical foul, if he feels that the act was a deliberate attempt to express displeasure at the call.
At 4:33 of the first period, a throw-in by Team A is interrupted when Player B1 slaps the ball out of Player A1's hands. What is the ruling?
The official will issue a delay-of-game warning to Team B and award the ball to Team A at the same spot. If a previous delay-of-game warning has been issued to Team B, a technical foul shall be assessed.
Player A1 is fouled and the officials are notified that Team B has committed five team fouls in the period. Player A1's first free throw attempt is successful and the second free throw attempt is unsuccessful. However, Player A3 scores a field goal on the rebound of the second free throw attempt. After 24 seconds have elapsed, the officials are notified that the team foul information given was incorrect and no free throw attempts should have been awarded. How is this play administered?
The point scored on the successful free throw attempt is deleted and the points scored on the successful field goal by Player A3 remain. If the error was discovered within 24 seconds, all play in the entire sequence would be deleted, except unsportsmanlike acts and all flagrant fouls and points scored there-from.
Which team has the choice of baskets prior to the start of the game?
The visiting team has its choice of baskets. Its decision must be made, immediately, upon taking the court.
Player A1 steals the ball in his backcourt and throws a pass to Player A2 streaking down the court. As Player A2 enters his frontcourt defender B2 is ahead of him but A2 is able to pass him prior to catching the ball near the 3-point line before he is immediately fouled from behind while having a clear path to the basket. What is the ruling on this play?
This is a Clear-Path-to-the-Basket foul as defender B2 was never ahead of A2 in the frontcourt when he had the ball and there was no other defender ahead who could have attained a position between the ball and the basket.
A pass from Player A1 to Player A2 goes into the backcourt where it is retrieved by Player B3. Player B3 immediately drives toward the basket. He is fouled at the free throw line extended by Player A2 who was never ahead of him after receiving the ball. What is the ruling?
This is a clear-path-to-the-basket foul because the play originated in the backcourt. Team B has possession and Player B3 is fouled while having a clear path to the basket. Player B3 is awarded two free throw attempts and Team B will retain possession on the sideline nearest the point of interruption but no nearer to the baseline than the free throw line extended
During the last two minutes of the fourth period, Player A1 is attempting a throw-in from out-of-bounds to Player A2. As the ball is in the air and Player A2 awaits the pass, he is fouled by Player B1. How is this administered?
This is a common foul, as Player A2 was involved in the play. This is not considered an away-from-the-play foul. On the same play, if Player A3 was setting a screen for Player A2 and was fouled, it also would be considered a common foul.
Player A1 is attempting a free throw following a successful field goal. During the attempt, Player B2 violates the free throw lane. Player A1's free throw attempt does not touch the rim. What is the ruling?
This is a double violation. Play is resumed with a jump ball at the center circle between any two opposing players. The ONLY way that Player A1 should receive a substitute free throw is if the official rules that Player B2's action was disconcerting. The official will notify the Public Address Announcer of his ruling immediately.
Player A1, having gained possession of the ball in his backcourt, is dribbling in the frontcourt toward the basket. Player B1 fouls him from the rear and no other defender is ahead of A1 who could have established a position between the ball and the basket. What is the ruling?
This is a personal foul against Player B1 and Player A1 is awarded two free throws. Team A retains possession of the ball at the sideline but no nearer to the baseline than the free throw line extended. If there is unnecessary contact on the play, a flagrant foul may be called.
Player A1, who has a clear path to the basket, is grabbed from behind on a twopoint field goal attempt. What is the procedure if the attempt is: (1) successful, (2) unsuccessful?
This is considered a foul in the act of shooting and not a clear path foul. Player A1 will receive one free throw attempt on the successful field goal and two if unsuccessful.
Player A1 is attempting a free throw. Player B6, who is on Team B's bench, jumps up and down and yells in an attempt to upset Player A1. How is this handled?
This is not a disconcerting the shooter violation because the player was not in the game.
Following a successful basket by Team B, Player A1 immediately throws a long pass to Player A2 who is streaking towards his basket. Knowing he is going to score easily, Player B2 grabs Player A2's shirt just before he catches the ball at the free throw line. How is this play administered?
This play meets all the requirements for a clear-path-to-the-basket foul. Player A2 shall receive two free throw attempts and Team A will inbound on the nearest sideline at the free throw line extended since that is the nearest point of interruption.
In the third period, offensive basket interference is called on Player A1 and the ball is awarded to Team B at the free throw line extended. The Public Address announcer notifies those in the arena of the infraction. In the closing seconds of the fourth period, it is discovered that the official scorer mistakenly awarded two points to Team A on that violation. What is the ruling?
Two points are subtracted from Team A's total and play is resumed from the point of interruption.
<p>Player A1 gathers the ball on a drive to the basket and defender B1 grabs him in a manner which does not allow him to release his field goal attempt. How many free throws are awarded?</p>
Two. Player A1 does not have to release the ball to be given continuation. As long as he continues his shooting motion throughout the sequence he is considered a shooter.
Player A1 gathers the ball on a drive to the basket and defender B1 pushes him in the back which causes Player A1 to take 3 steps prior to scoring a successful basket. How many free throws are awarded?
Two. The basket cannot be scored as Player A1 committed a traveling violation. However, since he was fouled in the act of shooting, he will receive two free throws.
To start his dribble, Player A1: (1) throws the ball over his opponent's head, or (2) throws the ball a long distance out in front of him. In both (1) and (2) the ball touches the floor and he continues to dribble. Is this legal?
Yes in both (1) and (2). Player A1 may not touch the ball before it touches the floor or he will be guilty of passing the ball to himself.
Player A1 passes the ball and it hits his backboard. May Player A1 be the first to touch the ball?
Yes. A player may be the first to touch his own pass if the ball touches his basket ring, backboard or another player.
On an unsuccessful field goal attempt, the ball rebounds off the basket ring and rolls along the top edge of the backboard. Is the ball still in play?
Yes. All four sides of the backboard are considered inbounds.
Player A1 taps the ball into his backcourt while rebounding. Player A2 retrieves the ball in the backcourt and continues to advance the ball toward the frontcourt. Is this legal?
Yes. Any player may recover a ball which is tapped into the backcourt during rebounding or when the ball is loose.
A coach wishes to speak with the officials concerning a rule interpretation prior to the start of a period. Is this granted?
Yes. However, the opposing coach must be given the opportunity to participate in the discussion. If he refuses to join the discussion, the officials may conduct the meeting with one coach.
Player A1 drives past his primary defender and crashes into secondary defender B5 who is stationary and trying to draw an offensive foul. A defensive foul should be called if Player B5's heel is in the restricted area?
Yes. In order for an offensive foul to be called, secondary defenders must be completely clear of the restricted area. The lifting of one's foot or heel off the floor does not remove them from the RA.
Player A1 is fouled in the act of shooting and the ball becomes loose. Player A1 is able to continue his shooting motion after being fouled and the basket is successful. Should 2 points be scored?
Yes. Player A1 is credited with 2 points and will attempt one free throw. Any player who can score a basket in the same motion after being fouled and having the ball knocked loose shall be credited with the basket.
Player B1 deflects a pass from Player A1 to Player A2, causing it to hit Player A2's knee and continue into Team A's backcourt. May any player from Team A be the first to legally touch the ball while it is in the backcourt?
Yes. The 24-second clock continues to run until there is a change of team possession. The deflection by Player B1 caused team control to cease and the ball became loose. Any player from either team may be the first to touch and/or recover a loose ball.
Player A1 saves a loose ball from going out-of-bounds by batting the ball back onto the playing court. May Player A1 be the first to touch the ball when he returns onto the court?
Yes. The batting of the ball does not constitute player control, therefore Player A1 may be the first to touch the ball.
A head coach beckons to the officials that he wants a timeout. Is this granted?
Yes. The head coach's request for a timeout shall be granted at the time of the request when the ball is dead or in control by a player of his team.
Player A1 is dribbling the ball in the frontcourt and Player B1 deflects the ball away into the backcourt. Player B1 gains possession and is immediately fouled from behind by Player A1 to prevent Player B1 from scoring an uncontested basket. Is this a clear-path-to-the-basket foul?
Yes. The play originated in the backcourt, Team B had possession and Player B1 was fouled from behind to prevent an uncontested basket.
A field goal attempt by Player A1 is blocked by Player B1 and the ball becomes loose over the baseline. Player A1, having last touched the playing surface inbounds, leaps over the baseline, gains possession of the ball while still in mid-air and throws it into his backcourt. It is recovered by Player A2. Is this a backcourt violation?
Yes. The saving and throwing of the ball by Player A1 in the frontcourt is considered positive position. Therefore, a violation has occurred.
Player A5 has his back to the basket below the free throw line extended and starts dribbling to back-down his defender. The official should call a violation when Player A5 is still dribbling below the foul line extended on the count of 5.
Yes. This is a 5-second back to the basket violation. The count ends when (1) the player picks up the ball, (2) dribbles above the free throw line extended or (3) a defensive player deflects the ball away.
Player A1 attempts a field goal and is fouled after the ball has been released. The foul occurs with Player A1 still in the air and/or not having regained a normal position. Is Player A1 still considered in the act of shooting?
Yes. Until such time as Player A1 regains some kind of normal playing position or even if the horn sounds to end the period, he is still considered in the act of shooting and free throws are awarded accordingly.
