ARTICLE 5: PLAYERS - INJURY
Statement 1:
If a player is injured or appears to be injured and, as a result, the coach, assistant
coach, substitute or any other bench personnel of the same team comes onto the
playing court, that player is considered to have received treatment, whether or not
actual treatment is administered.
Example 1:
A4 appears to have injured an ankle and the game is stopped.
(a) The team A doctor comes onto the court and treats A4's injured ankle.
(b) The team A doctor comes onto the court but A4 has already recovered.
(c) Coach A comes onto the court to assess A4's injury.
(d) Assistant coach A, substitute A or team follower A comes onto the court but does
not treat A4.
Interpretation:
In (a), (b), (c), and (d) A4 are considered to have received treatment and shall be
substituted.
Statement 2:
There is no time limit for the removal of a seriously injured player from the court if
according to a doctor the removal is dangerous for the player.
Example 2:
A4 is seriously injured and the game is stopped for about 15 minutes because the
doctor estimates that removal from the court could be dangerous for the player.
Interpretation:
The doctor’s opinion shall determine the appropriate time for the removal of the injured
player from the court. After the substitution, the game shall be restarted without any
sanction.
Statement 3:
If a player is injured or is bleeding, or has an open wound, and cannot continue to play
immediately (approximately 15 seconds), he must be substituted, unless a time-out is
taken by either team in the same stopped clock period, and the player recovers during
that time-out before the scorer’s signal for substitution is sounded.
Example 3:
A4 is injured and the game is stopped. As A4 is not able to continue to play
immediately, the referee sounds his whistle making the conventional sign for
substitution.
Coach A (or Coach B) requests a time-out:
(a) Before a substitute for A4 has entered the game
(b) After a substitute for A4 has entered the game.
At the end of the time-out, A4 appears to have recovered and asks to remain in the
game. Shall A4’s request be granted?
Interpretation:
(a) Time-out is granted and if A4 recovers during the time-out he may continue to play
(b) Time-out is granted but A4 must be substituted
ARTICLE 7: COACHES - DUTIES AND POWERS
Statement:
At least 20 minutes before the game is scheduled to begin, each coach or his
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. The coach is personally
responsible for making sure that the numbers in the list correspond to the numbers on
the shirts of the players. 10 minutes before the game is scheduled to begin the coach
shall confirm his agreement with the names and corresponding numbers of his team
members and the names of the coaches by signing the score
sheet.
Example:
Team A presents in due time the team list to the scorer. The numbers of two players
are not the same as the numbers displayed on their shirts or the name of a player is
omitted on the score sheet. This is discovered:
(a) Before the start of the game
(b) After the start of the game
How shall the referee proceed?
Interpretation:
(a) The wrong numbers are corrected and the name of the player is added in the score
sheet without any sanction
(b) The referee stops the game in a convenient moment so as not to disadvantage
either team. The wrong numbers are corrected; however, the name of the player
cannot be added to the score sheet.
ARTICLE 9: BEGINNING AND END OF A PERIOD
Statement 1:
A game shall not begin unless each team has a minimum of five entitled players on the
court and ready to play. If fewer than five players are on the court at the time the game
is to begin, the officials must be sensitive to any unforeseeable circumstance(s) that
could explain the delay. If a reasonable explanation is provided for the delay, a
technical foul shall not be charged. If, however, no such explanation is provided, a
technical foul and/or forfeiture of the game may result upon arrival of further players.
Remark: The restriction is valid only for the beginning of the game and not for the
beginning of any other period or extra period.
Example 1:
When the game is scheduled to begin, team A has fewer than five players on the court
and ready to play.
(a) The representative of team A is able to provide a reasonable and acceptable
explanation for the late arrival of the team A players.
(b) The representative of team A is unable to provide a reasonable and acceptable
explanation for the late arrival of the team A players.
Interpretation:
(a) The beginning of the game shall be delayed for a maximum of 15 minutes. If the
absent players arrive on the court ready to play before 15 minutes have passed, the
game shall begin. If the absent players have not arrived on the court ready to play
before 15 minutes have passed, the game may be forfeited to team B and the score
recorded as 20:0.
(b) The beginning of the game shall be delayed for a maximum of 15 minutes. If the
absent players arrive on the court ready to play before 15 minutes have passed, a
technical foul may be charged to coach A (recorded as “B”) after which the game shall
begin. If the absent players have not arrived on the court ready to play before 15
minutes have passed, then the game may be forfeited to team B and the score
recorded as 20:0.
Statement 2:
Article 9 clarify which basket a team is to defend and which basket it is to attack. If by
confusion any period begins with both teams attacking/defending the wrong baskets,
the situation shall be corrected as soon as it is discovered, without placing either team
at a disadvantage. Any points scored, time used, fouls charged, etc.
Example 1:
After the start of the game, the officials realize that both teams are playing in the wrong
direction.
Interpretation:
The game shall be stopped as soon as possible and without placing any team at a
disadvantage. Teams shall exchange baskets. The game shall be resumed from the
mirror-opposite place nearest to where the game was stopped.
Example 2:
At the beginning of a period, team A is attacking/defending the correct basket when B4
by loss of orientation dribbles to the incorrect basket and scores a field goal.
Interpretation:
The two points shall be awarded to the captain of team A.
ARTICLE 12: JUMP BALL AND ALTERNATING POSSESSION
Statement:
The team that does not obtain control of the ball on the jump ball at the beginning of
the game will be awarded the ball for a throw-in at the place nearest to where the next
jump ball situation occurs.
Example 1:
A referee tosses the ball for the opening jump ball. Immediately after the ball is legally
tapped by jumper A4:
(a) A held ball between A5 and B5 is called.
(b) A double foul between A5 and B5 is called.
Interpretation:
Since possession has not yet been established, the official cannot use the alternating
possession arrow to award possession. The referee shall conduct another jump ball at
the centre circle and A5 and B5 shall jump. Whatever time has passed on the game
clock, after the legal tapping of the ball and before the held ball/double foul situation,
shall remain consumed.
Example 2:
Team B is entitled to a throw-in under the alternating possession rule. An official and/or
scorer make an error and the ball is erroneously awarded to team A for the throw-in.
Interpretation:
Once the ball touches or is touched by a player on the court, the error cannot be
corrected. Team B does not lose its alternating possession throw-in opportunity as a
result of the error and is entitled to the throw-in when the next alternating possession
situation begins.
Example 3:
Simultaneously with the signal to end the first period, B5 fouls A5 and an
unsportsmanlike foul is called. The arrow is in favor of team B. How shall the officials
proceed?
Interpretation:
A5 shall attempt two free throws with no line up of players and no playing time left. After
the two minute interval of play, the game shall be resumed with a throw-in by team A at
the center line extended opposite the scorer’s table. Team B shall not lose its right to
the next alternating possession throw-in for the next jump ball situation.
ARTICLE 17: THROW-IN
Statement 1:
Before the thrower-in has released the ball on a throw-in, it is possible that the
throwing-in motion could cause that player’s hand(s) with the ball to break the plane of
the boundary line separating the in-bounds area from the out-of-bounds area. In such
situations, it continues to be the responsibility of the defending player to avoid.
Example:
A4 is awarded a throw-in. While holding the ball, A4’s hand(s) crosses the plane of the
boundary line so that the ball is above the in-bounds area. B4 grabs the ball that is in
A4’s hand(s) or taps the ball out of A4’s hand(s) without any physical contact against
A4 personally.
Interpretation:
B4 has interfered with the throw-in, thereby delaying the resuming of the game. A
warning shall be given to B4 and communicated to coach B and this warning shall apply
to all team B players for the remainder of the game. The repetition of a similar action by
any team B player may result in a technical foul.
Statement 2:
On a throw-in, the thrower-in must pass the ball (not hand the ball) to a team-mate on
the playing court. To hand the ball to a team-mate on the court would violate the intent
of a throw-in.
Example:
On a throw-in by A4, A4 hands the ball to A5 who is on the playing court.
Interpretation:
A throw-in violation has been committed by A4. The ball must leave the player’s hand
(s) in order for the throwing to be considered legal. The ball is awarded to team B for a
throw-in from the same place out-of-bounds.
Statement 3
The throw-in shall be taken at the center line extended, opposite the scorer’s table,
during the last two minutes of the fourth period or the last two minutes of each extra
period, if a time-out is granted to the team that has been awarded possession of the
ball in its back court. The player making the throw-in is entitled to pass the ball to any
place on the court.
Example 1:
In the last minute of the game, A4 is dribbling in his back court, when a team B player
taps the ball out-of-bounds at the free-throw line extended.
(a) A time-out is granted to team B
(b) A time-out is granted to team A
(c) A time-out is granted first to team B and immediately after to team A (or vice-versa).
From where shall the game resume for the team A throw-in after the time-out?
Interpretation:
In (a), the game resumes with a team A throw-in from the free-throw line extended. In
(b) and (c), the game resumes with a team A throw-in from the center line extended,
opposite the scorers.
Example 2:
In the last minute of the game, A4 is attempting two free throws. During the second free
throw A4 steps on the free-throw line while shooting and a violation is called. Team B
requests a time-out. From where will the game be resumed for the team B throw-in after
the time-out?
Interpretation:
The game will resume with a team B throw-in from the center line extended, opposite the
scorer’s table.
Example 3:
During the last two minutes of the game, A4 has dribbled for 6 seconds in the team A
back court, when B4 taps the ball out-of-bounds. Team A is granted a time-out. After
the time-out, the game is resumed by A4 with a throw-in from the center line extended,
opposite the scorer’s table.
(a) How many seconds are remaining for team A in the twenty-four second period?
(b) If A4 passes the ball to his back court, how many seconds shall team A have to
cause the ball to go into its front court?
Interpretation:
(a) Team A shall have only 18 seconds remaining from the twenty-four second period.
(b) After receiving the ball in its back court, team A has at its disposal a new eight-
second period to cause the ball to go in its front court.
ARTICLE 18 & 19: TIME-OUT / SUBSTITUTION
Statement 1:
A time-out cannot be granted before the playing time for a period has started or after
the playing time for a period has been completed. A substitution cannot be granted
before the playing time for the first period has started or after the playing time for the
game has been completed, any substitution can be granted during intervals of play.
Example 1:
During the jump ball to start the game but before the ball is legally tapped, jumper A5
commits a violation and the ball is awarded to team B for a throw-in. At this moment
either coach requests a time-out or a substitution.
Interpretation:
The time-out or substitution shall not be granted because the playing time has not yet
started.
Example 2:
At the same time as the game clock signal sounds for the end of a period or extra
period (not the end of the game), a foul is called and A4 is awarded two free throws.
Either coach requests:
(a) A time-out
(b) A substitution
Interpretation:
(a) A time-out cannot be granted because the playing time for a period has expired.
(b) A substitution can be granted only after the free-throw attempts have been
completed and the interval of play has therefore begun.
Statement 2:
If the twenty-four second device signal sounds while the ball is in the air during a shot
for field goal, it does not stop the game clock. No substitutions are allowed and this is a
time-out opportunity only for the non scoring team.
Example:
On a shot for a field goal, the ball is in the air when the twenty-four second device
signal sounds. The ball then enters the basket. At this time:
(a) Either or both teams request substitutions
(b) Either or both teams request time-outs
Interpretation:
(a) The twenty-four second device signal is ignored because it does not stop the game
clock. The game clock would be stopped and a substitution would be permitted only for
the non-scoring team and only in the last two minutes of the fourth period or the last
two minutes of each extra period. If the team that has been scored upon is granted a
substitution, then the opponents may also substitute.
(b) This is a time-out opportunity only for the non-scoring team. If the time-out is taken,
also the opponents can be granted a time-out, if requested, and both teams may
substitute.
Statement 3:
If the request for time-out or substitution (for any player, including the free-throw
shooter) is made after the ball is at the disposal of the free-throw shooter for the first or
only free throw, the time-out or substitution shall be granted for both teams if:
(a) The last or only free throw is successful or
(b) The last or only free throw is followed by a throw-in at the centre line extended or
for any valid reason the ball will remain dead after the last or only free throw.
Example 1:
A4 is awarded two free throws. Team A (or team B) requests a time-out or substitution:
(a) Before the ball is at the disposal of the free-throw shooter A4.
(b) After the first free-throw attempt.
Statement 4:
If the officials discover that more than five players are playing on the court
simultaneously for the same team, the error must be corrected as soon as possible
without placing the opponents at a disadvantage. Assuming that the officials and the
table officials are doing their job correctly, one player must have entered or remained
on the court illegally. The officials must therefore order one player to be removed from
the court immediately and charge a technical foul (recorded as “B”) against the coach
of that team. The coach is responsible for ensuring that a substitution is applied
correctly and that the substituted player leaves the court immediately
after the substitution.
Example:
While the game is being played it is discovered that team A has more than five players
playing on the court.
(a) At the time of the discovery, team B (with 5 players) is in control of the ball.
(b) At the time of the discovery, team A (with more than 5 players) is in control of the
ball
.
Interpretation:
(a) The game shall be stopped immediately unless team B is placed at a disadvantage.
The player who has entered (or remained in) the game illegally must be removed from
the game and a technical foul (recorded as “B”) shall be charged against that team’s
coach.
(b) The game shall be stopped immediately. The player who has entered (or remained
in) the game illegally must be removed from the game and a technical foul (recorded as
“B”) shall be charged against that team’s coach.
Statement 5:
After it is discovered that a team is participating with more than five players, it is also
discovered that points have been scored or a foul has been committed by player A5
while participating illegally. All such points shall be valid and any foul committed by (or
against) that player shall qualify as player fouls.
Example:
The officials realize that A5 is on the court and participating as a sixth player for team A.
(a) The game is then stopped following a foul by A5.
(b) The game is then stopped following a field goal by A5.
(c) The game is then stopped after B5 fouls A5 during an unsuccessful shot for a field
goal.
Interpretation:
(a) The foul by A5 shall be considered a player foul and penalized accordingly.
(b) The field goal by A5 shall count
(c) The free throws resulting from the B5 foul shall be attempted by any team A player
on the court at the time of the foul as chosen by coach A.
Statement 7:
Article 18 and 19 clarify when a substitution or time-out opportunity begins and ends.
Coaches desiring a time-out or a substitution must be aware of these limitations and be
prepared to have the time-out or substitution granted only at the proper time. If the
request is made at any time other than during a time-out or substitution opportunity,
the substitution or time-out shall not be granted immediately.
Example:
A substitution or time-out opportunity has just ended when coach A runs to the scorer’s
table, loudly requesting a substitution or a time-out. The scorer reacts and erroneously
sounds the signal. The official blows his whistle and interrupts the game.
Interpretation:
Because of the official’s whistle, the ball is dead and the game clock remains stopped,
resulting in what would normally be a substitution or time-out opportunity. However,
because the request was made too late, the substitution or time-out shall not be
granted. The game shall resume immediately.
ARTICLE 24: DRIBBLING
Statement:
If a player deliberately throws the ball against a backboard (not attempting a legitimate
shot for a goal) this is considered the same as if the player has bounced the ball on the
floor. If the player then touches the ball again before it has touched (or been touched
by) another player, this is considered the same as a dribble.
Example 1:
A4 has not yet dribbled when A4 throws the ball against a backboard and catches it
again before the ball has touched another player.
Interpretation:
After catching the ball (ball comes to rest in his hands) A4 may shoot or pass but may
not begin a new dribble.
Example 2:
After ending a dribble and either in the continuous motion or standing still, A4 now
throws the ball against the backboard and catches it again before it has touched
another player.
Interpretation:
A4 has committed a violation for making a new dribble.
ARTICLE 28: EIGHT SECONDS
Statement 1:
The application of this rule is based solely on the individual counting of the eight
seconds by an official. In case of any discrepancy between the number of seconds
counted by the official and those displayed on the twenty-four second device, the
decision of the official shall take precedence.
Example:
A4 is dribbling the ball in his back court when the official calls an eight-second violation.
The display on the twenty-four second device shows that only seven seconds have
passed.
Interpretation:
The decision of the official is correct. The official is solely entitled to decide when the
eight-second period is terminated.
Statement 2:
If an eight-second count in the back court is stopped because of a jump ball situation
and the resulting alternating possession throw-in is awarded to the team that was in
control of the ball, that team shall have only whatever time was remaining in the eight-
second period.
Example:
Team A has been in control of the ball for five seconds in the team A back court when
a held ball occurs. The officials determine that team A is entitled to the next alternating
possession throw-in.
Interpretation:
Team A shall have only three seconds remaining to cause the ball to go into the team
A front court.
ARTICLE 29: TWENTY – FOUR SECONDS
Statement 1:
When a shot for goal is attempted near the end of the twenty-four second period and
the signal sounds while the ball is in the air, if the ball hits the backboard or misses the
ring, a violation has occurred unless the opponents have gained immediate and clear
control of the ball. The ball shall be awarded to the opponent for the throw-in at the
place nearest to where the game was stopped by the official, except directly behind the
backboard.
Example 1:
A shot for goal by A5 is in the air when the twenty-four second device signal sounds.
The ball touches the backboard and then rolls on the floor, where it is touched by B4
followed by A4 and is finally controlled by B5.
Interpretation:
This is a twenty-four second violation because the ball missed the ring and then there
was no immediate and clear control of the ball by the opponents.
Example 2:
A shot by A5 touches the backboard, but misses the ring. On the rebound, the ball is
touched, but not controlled by B5, after which A5 gains control of the ball. At this time
the twenty-four second device signal sounds.
Interpretation:
A twenty-four second violation has occurred. The twenty-four second clock continues
to run when the shot fails to touch the ring and the ball is again controlled by a team A
player.
Example 3:
At the end of a twenty-four second period, A4 shoots for goal. The shot is legally
blocked by B4 and then the twenty-four second device signal sounds. After the signal
B4 fouls A4.
Interpretation:
A twenty-four second violation has occurred. B4’s foul shall be disregarded unless
technical, unsportsmanlike or disqualifying.
Example 4:
A shot for a field goal by A4 is in the air when the twenty-four second device signal
sounds. The ball misses the ring, after which a held ball between A5 and B5 is
immediately called.
Interpretation:
A twenty-four second violation has occurred. Team B did not gain immediate and clear
control of the ball on the rebound.
Statement 2:
If a team that was in control of the ball is awarded an alternating possession throw-in,
that team shall have only whatever time was remaining in the twenty-four second period
at the time the jump ball situation occurred.
Example 1:
Team A is in control of the ball with ten seconds remaining in the twenty-four second
period when a held ball occurs. An alternating possession throw-in is awarded to:
(a) Team A
(b) Team B
Interpretation:
(a) Team A shall have only ten seconds remaining in the twenty-four second period.
(b) Team B shall have a new twenty-four second period.
Example 2:
Team A is in control of the ball with ten seconds remaining in the twenty-four second
period when the ball goes out-of-bounds. The officials either cannot agree on whether
it was A4 or B4 who was the last to touch the ball before it went out-of-bounds, or
cannot determine which player was the last to touch the ball before it went out-of-
bounds. An alternating possession throw-in is awarded to:
(a) Team A
(b) Team B
Interpretation:
(a) Team A shall have only ten seconds remaining in the twenty-four second period.
(b) Team B shall have a new twenty-four second period.
ARTICLE 31: GOALTENDING AND INTERFERENCE
Statement 1:
When the ball is above the ring during a field goal or free-throw attempt, it is
interference if a player reaches through the basket and contacts the ball.
Example:
On a last or only free throw by A4, before the ball has touched the ring, B4 reaches
through the basket and contacts the ball.
Interpretation:
A B4 violation has occurred for touching the ball illegally. One point is awarded to team
A and a technical foul is called on B4.
Statement 2:
When the ball is above the ring during a pass or a rebound, it is a violation if a player
reaches through the basket and contacts the ball.
Example:
The ball is above the ring as a result of a pass when A4 reaches through the basket
and contacts the ball.
Interpretation:
A simple violation (not goaltending or interference) has occurred. Team B shall be
awarded the ball with a new 24 second period for a throw-in from the end line nearest
to where the violation occurred, except directly behind the backboard.
Statement 3:
Following the last or only free throw and after the ball has touched the ring, the free-
throw attempt changes its status and becomes a two-point field goal if the ball is legally
touched by any player before it enters the basket.
Example:
A last or only free throw by A4 has touched the ring and is bouncing above it when B4
tries to tap the ball away but the ball enters the basket.
Interpretation:
Because the ball has been legally touched, the free-throw attempt has changed its
status and two points are awarded to team A.
Statement 4:
If, after a field goal attempt, a player touches the ball while it is in its upward flight, all
restrictions related to goaltending and interference shall apply.
Example:
After a shot for a field goal by A4, the ball is in the air when it is touched in its upward
flight by B5 (or A5). In its downward flight to the basket the ball is touched by:
(a) A3
(b) B3
Interpretation:
The contact of A5 (or B5) with the ball in its upward flight is legal and does not change
the status of a shot for goal. However, the subsequent contact with the ball in its
downward flight by A3 or B3 is a violation. In:
(a) The ball is awarded to team B for a throw-in.
(b) Two or three points are awarded to team A.
Statement 5:
It is considered interference if during a shot for field goal, a defensive player causes
the backboard or the ring to vibrate in such a way that the ball, in the judgment of the
official, is prevented from entering the basket.
Example:
A4 attempts a shot for a three-point field goal near the end of the game. While the ball
is in the air the game clock signal sounds for the end of the game. After the signal, B4
causes the ring or the backboard to vibrate and because of this action, in the judgment
of the official, the ball is prevented from entering the basket.
Interpretation:
Even after the game clock signal sounds for the end of the game, the ball remains live
and therefore an interference violation had occurred. The three points are awarded to
team A.
Statement 6:
Interference occurs by a defensive or offensive player during a shot for goal when a
player touches the basket or the backboard while the ball is in contact with the ring and
still has a possibility of entering the basket.
Example:
After a shot for a field goal by A4, the ball has rebounded from the ring and then again
landed on the ring. The ball is still touching the ring when B4 touches the basket or
backboard. Is this an interference violation?
Interpretation:
Yes. The interference restrictions apply as long as there is possibility for the ball to
enter the basket.
ARTICLE 35: DOUBLE FOUL
Statement:
Whenever there are contradictory decisions of the officials or the infractions of the
rules occur at approximately the same time and one of the sanctions is to cancel the
scored basket, that sanction prevails and no points shall be awarded.
Example:
While in the act of shooting, there is a physical contact between shooter A4 and B4.
The ball enters the basket. The lead official calls an offensive foul against A4 and
therefore the basket shall not count. The trail official calls a defensive foul against B4
and therefore the basket shall count.
Interpretation:
This is a double foul and the basket shall not count.
ARTICLE 38: TECHNICAL FOUL
Statement 1:
When an official warning is given to a player for an action or behavior which if repeated
may lead to a technical foul, that warning shall also be communicated to the coach of
that team and shall apply to any member of that team for similar actions and for the
remainder of the game. An official warning shall be given only when the game clock is
stopped and the ball is dead.
Example:
A member of team A is given a warning for:
(a) Interfering with throw-in
(b) Clapping hands in the face of an opponent who is shooting for a successful field
goal.
(c) Unsportsmanlike behavior.
(d) Any other action which, if repeated, may lead to a technical foul.
Interpretation:
The warning shall be communicated also to coach A and shall apply to all team A
members, for similar actions, for the remainder of the game.
Statement 2:
If during an interval of play a technical foul is committed by a team member who is
entitled to play and who is designated as player-coach, the technical foul shall count as
a player foul and shall count towards the team penalty situation in the following period.
Example:
A4 is a player-coach for team A. A4 is charged with a technical foul for:
(a) Hanging on the ring during the pre-game or half-time warm up.
(b) Unsportsmanlike behavior during an interval of play.
Interpretation:
In both, (a) and (b) a technical foul shall be charged to A4 as a player. The foul shall
count as one of the fouls leading to the team penalty situation in the following period as
well as one of the five fouls leading to A4’s having to leave the game.
Statement 3:
While a player is in the act of shooting for goal, opponents shall not be permitted to
disconcert that player by actions such as waving a hand(s) to obstruct the shooter’s
field of vision, shouting loudly, stamping feet heavily or clapping hands near the
shooter. To do so may result in a technical foul if the shooter is disadvantaged by the
action or a warning if the shooter is not disadvantaged.
Example:
A4 is in the act of shooting for a goal when B4 attempts to distract A4 by shouting
loudly or stamping feet heavily of the floor. The shot for goal is:
(a) Successful
(b) Unsuccessful.
Interpretation:
(a) A warning shall be given to B4 and shall be communicated to coach B. This warning
shall apply to all players of team B for the remainder of the game for similar behavior.
(b) A technical foul shall be charged to B4.
Statement 4:
If a player re-enters the game after having committed a fifth foul and after having been
notified that the player is no longer entitled to participate, the illegal participation shall
be penalized immediately upon discovery, without placing the opponents at a
disadvantage.
Example:
After committing a fifth foul, B4 is notified of being no longer entitled to participate.
Later, B4 enters the game as a substitute. B4’s illegal participation is discovered:
(a) Before the ball has become live for the resuming of the game.
(b) After the ball has again become live and while the ball is in control of team A.
(c) After the ball has again become live and while the ball is in control of team B.
(d) After the ball has again become dead following B4’s entering the game.
Interpretation:
(a) B4 shall be removed from the game immediately. A technical foul (recorded as “B”)
shall be charged to the coach.
(b) The game shall be stopped immediately unless team A is placed at a disadvantage.
B4 shall be removed from the game and a technical foul (recorded as “B”) shall be
charged to coach B.
(c) and (d) The game shall be stopped immediately. B4 shall be removed from the
game and a technical foul (recorded as “B”) shall be charged to coach B.
Statement 5:
If, after having been notified of being no longer entitled to participate because of a fifth
foul, a player enters the game again and scores a field goal, commits a foul, or is
fouled by an opponent before the illegal participation is discovered, the field goal shall
count and the foul shall be considered a player foul.
Example:
After having committed a fifth foul and having being notified of being no longer entitled
to participate, B4 enters again as a substitute. B4’s illegal participation is discovered
after:
(a) B4 scores a field goal.
(b) B4 commits a foul.
(c) B4 is fouled by A4 (fifth team foul).
Interpretation:
(a) The field goal scored by B4 shall count.
(b) The foul committed by B4 shall be considered a player foul.
(c) The two free throws merited by B4 shall be attempted by the substitute for B4.
After all the activity connected with (a), (b), and (c) is terminated, the penalty for the
technical foul of coach B (recorded as “B”) shall be administered.
Statement 6:
If, after having committed a fifth foul and not having been notified of being no longer
entitled to participate, a player remains in (or re-enters) the game, that player shall be
removed from the game as soon as the error is discovered (without placing the
opponents at a disadvantage). No penalty shall be applied for the player’s illegal
participation. If that player scores a field goal, commits a foul or is fouled by an
opponent, the field goal shall count and the fouls shall be considered as player fouls.
Example 1:
A10 asks to substitute for A4. The ball next becomes dead as a result of a foul by A4
and A10 enters the game. The officials fail to notify A4 that the foul is A4’s fifth foul. A4
later re-enters the game as a substitute. The illegal participation by A4 is realized:
(a) After the game clock has started and while A4 is participating as a player.
(b) After A4 has scored a field goal.
(c) After A4 fouls B4.
(d) After B4 fouls A4 during an unsuccessful shot for goal.
Interpretation:
(a) The game shall be stopped and A4 shall be removed from the game immediately
and replaced bya substitute, without placing team B at a disadvantage. No penalty shall
be charged because of A4’s illegal participation.
(b) The field goal scored by A4 shall count.
(c) The foul committed by A4 shall be considered a player foul and penalized
accordingly.
(d) The foul committed by B4 shall be considered a foul against a player. A4’s
substitute shall be awarded two or three free throws.
Example 2:
Ten minutes before the start of the game, a technical foul is called on A4. Before the
start of the game two free throws are attempted by B4. The game is started with a jump
ball but B4 is not in the starting 5 players for team B. Is this legal?
Interpretation:
No. One of the players designated as a starter must attempt the free throws.
Substitution cannot be granted before the playing time has started.
ARTICLE 39: FIGHTING
Statement:
If a team is awarded a throw-in because that team was in control of the ball at the time
a fight breaks out or threatens to break out, that team shall have only whatever time
was remaining on the twenty-four second clock when the game resumes.
Example:
Team A has possession of the ball for twenty seconds when a situation occurs which
may lead to a fight. The officials disqualify members of both teams for leaving the
confines of the team bench area. The game resumes with a throw-in for team A.
Interpretation:
Team A, who controlled the ball before the fighting situation, will be awarded a throw-in
from the center line extended, opposite the scorer’s table with only four seconds left in
the twenty-four second period.
ARTICLE 42: SPECIAL SITUATIONS
Statement 1:
In special situations where a number of penalties are available to be administered
during the same stopped clock period, officials must pay particular attention to the
order in which the violation or fouls occurred in determining which penalties are to be
administered and which penalties are to be cancelled.
Example:
A4 attempts a jump shot for a field goal. While the ball is in the air, the twenty-four
second device signal sounds. After the signal, but with A4 still in the air, B4 commits an
unsportsmanlike foul on A4 and:
(a) The ball misses the ring.
(b) The ball only touches the ring but does not enter the basket.
(c) The ball enters the basket.
Interpretation:
In all three cases the unsportsmanlike foul of B4 cannot be ignored.
(a) A4 was fouled by B4 while A4 was in the act of shooting (penalty: two or three free
throws followed by a throw-in for team A at the centre line extended opposite the scorer’
s table). After that a twenty-four second violation was committed by team A (penalty: a
throw-in for team B at the free-throw line extended). A4 shall be awarded two or three
free throws but team A’s right to a throw-in shall be cancelled because it is not the last
penalty to be administered. The game shall resume with a throw-in for team B at the
free-throw line extended.
(b) No twenty-four second violation has occurred; two or three free throws shall be
awarded to A4, followed by a team A’s throw-in at the centre line extended, opposite
the scorer’s table.
(c) No twenty-four second violation has occurred. Two or three points are awarded to
A4 followed by one additional free throw for A4. Team A is then awarded the ball for a
throw-in at the centre line extended, opposite the scorer’s table.
Statement 2:
If a double foul is committed during free-throw activity, or if fouls with equal penalties
are committed during free-throw activity, the fouls shall be charged but no penalties are
administered.
Example 1:
A4 is awarded two free throws. After the first free throw, a double foul is committed by
A5 and B5.
Interpretation:
Fouls shall be charged to A5 and B5, after which A4 shall attempt the second free
throw and the game shall resume normally as after any last or only free throw.
Example 2:
A4 is awarded two free throws. After the first free throw, technical fouls are committed
by A5 and then by B5.
Interpretation:
Technical fouls shall be charged to A5 and B5, after which A4 shall attempt the second
free throw. The game shall resume normally as after any last or only free throw.
Example 3:
A4 is awarded two free throws. Both free throws are successful. Before the ball can
again become live following the last free throw
(a) A double foul is committed by A5 and B5.
(b) A5 and B5 commit technical fouls.
Interpretation:
In both (a) and (b), fouls shall be charged to the appropriate players, after which the
game shall resume with a throw-in from the end line as after any successful last or only
free throw.
Statement 3:
In the case of a double foul, the game is resumed with a throw-in by the team that had
control of the ball or was entitled to the ball when the double foul was called. In the
case of a special situation when after cancellation of equal penalties against the teams
there are no other
penalties for administration, the game is resumed with a throw-in by the team that had
control of the ball or was entitled to the ball before the first infraction. In the case that
neither team was in control of the ball or entitled to the ball before the first in-fraction,
this is a jump ball situation: The game is resumed with an alternating possession throw-
in.
Example:
During the interval of play between the first and second period: The alternating
possession arrow points towards:
(a) Team A
(b) Team B
How shall the game be resumed for the second period?
Interpretation:
(a) The game is resumed with a throw-in by team A from the place nearest to where the
double foul or the first infraction occurred. The moment the ball touches a player in the
court, the arrow shall be turned towards team B.
(b) The same procedure is followed, beginning with a throw-in awarded to team B.
ARTICLE 44: CORRECTABLE ERRORS
Statement 1:
To be correctable the error must be recognized by the officials, table officials or
commissioner before the ball becomes live following the first dead ball after the game
clock has started following the error. That is:
- Error occurs all errors occur during a dead ball
- Ball live Error is correctable
- Game clock starts or continues to run Error is correctable
- Dead ball Error is correctable
- Ball live Error is no longer correctable
- After the correction of the error, the game shall be resumed at the point it was
stopped to correct the error.
- The ball shall be awarded to the team entitled to the ball at the time the game was
stopped for the correction.
Example:
Before the penalty rule is in effect, B4 fouls A4. The official commits an error by
awarding A4 two free throws. After the last and successful free throw, the game
continues and the game clock starts. B5 receives the ball, dribbles and scores. The
error is discovered:
(a) Before the ball is at the disposal of the team A’s player for the throw-in at the end
line.
Interpretation:
A4 shall be awarded two free throws with no line up of players. Then A5 shall attempt
two free throws and the game shall resume as after any normal free throw(s).
Example 2:
B4 fouls A4 and this is team B’s fifth team foul. Erroneously, A4 is not awarded two free
throws but a throw-in. After the throw-in, A5 shoots and scores a 2/3 points basket.
Before the ball becomes live again, the officials recognize the correctable error. How
shall they proceed?
Interpretation:
The error is disregarded and the game shall continue as after any normal field goal.
ARTICLE 46: REFEREES: DUTIES AND POWERS
Statement 1:
During a normal basketball game it is quite possible that an incident or situation could
occur which is not specifically covered in the ABF/FIBA basketball rules or FIBA Official
Interpretations. In such incidents or situations the referee is empowered to make a
decision, based on his personal judgment, within the spirit and intent of fair play and
the philosophy of the rules. The referee has the power to make decision on any point
not specifically covered by the rules. This is commonly referred to as the “elastic
power” of the referee.
Example:
Following a team A field goal the ball rolls far away from the court.
Interpretation:
The official would blow the whistle to stop the game clock. Time-outs and substitutions
for both teams would then be permitted while the clock is stopped and the ball is dead.
This does not apply, however, to after a field goal is scored during the last two minutes
of the game in a fourth or any extra period. If an official were to blow his whistle at this
time, this would place at a disadvantage the team entitled to the throw-in because it
would permit the scoring team to substitute or to request a time-out. Therefore the
official will not blow his whistle because this will create an interruption of the game.
Statement 2:
The referee is authorized to use technical equipment by his own decision, or on a
request of a coach, to verify if a final shot at the end of a period was released during
playing time. He is the only one to decide whether such equipment shall or shall not be
used. In case of a replay review, that review shall be conducted by the officials,
commissioner, if present, and the timer. The referee shall take the final decision. The
request for use of replay equipment must be made before the start of the next period
or before the referee has signed score sheet.
Example 1:
A4 shoots for a field goal when the signal sounds to end the period or game. The shot
is successful and the official’s award two points for team A. Coach B expresses his
opinion that during the final shot for goal, the ball was released by A4 after the
expiration of playing time and requests the use of the replay equipment. What is the
procedure to be followed by the officials?
(a) The officials are absolutely sure in their decision.
(b) The officials have some doubts or disagreement if the shot was released before the
signal sounded to end the period or game.
Interpretation:
(a) The referee denies the request of coach B.
(b) The referee complies with coach B’s request.
The replay review is conducted in the presence of the officials, commissioner, if
present, and the timer. If the replay provides clear and conclusive visual evidence that
the ball was released after the expiration of playing time for the period or game, the
basket is cancelled. If the replay ascertains that the ball was released before the
expiration of playing time for the period or game, the former result shall be confirmed.
Example 2:
Team A is ahead with two points. The signal sounds to end the period or game when a
personal foul is called on A4 and two free throws are granted to B4. Both free throws
are successful and the result is a tie. Before the start of the next period or extra period,
the coach of the offended team A requests the use of replay equipment.
Interpretation:
The technical equipment can be used only to ascertain if the final shot was taken (not
the foul called) before or after the end of playing time for a period. A request of coach
A shall be denied.
Example 3:
Team A is ahead with two points. The signal sounds to end the period or game when
B4 shoots for a field goal and scores, but only two and not three points are granted by
the officials. Before the start of the next period or extra period or before the referee
has signed the score sheet, the coach of the offended team B requests the use of
replay equipment.
Interpretation:
The technical equipment can be used only to ascertain if the final shot was taken (not
whether it was a two-points or three-points shot) before or after the end of playing time
for a period. A request of coach B shall be denied.
Statement 3:
Before the game the referee approves the technical equipment and informs the two
coaches about its presence. Only technical equipment approved by the referee can be
used for a replay review.
Example:
A4 shoots for a field goal as the signal sounds to end the period or game. The shot is
successful. Coach B requests a replay review because in his opinion the shot was
released after the expiration of the game clock. There is no approved technical
equipment on the court but the manager of team B states that the game was filmed by
the team video from an elevated position and presents to the officials the video
material for a review.
Interpretation:
The request of coach B shall be denied
| 2009 - 2010 ABI OFFICIAL RULES & REGULATIONS |
The ABI Basketball Rules are approved by the ABI and are periodically revised
by the ABI Technical Commission. The rules are kept as clear and comprehensive
as possible, but they express principles rather than play situations. They cannot,
however, cover the rich variety of specific cases that could happen during a
basketball game. The aim of this document is to convert the principles and
concepts of the rule book into practical and specific situations as they might arise
in a normal basketball game. The interpretations of the different situations can
stimulate the officials’ minds and will complement an initial detailed study of the
rules themselves. The Official ABI Basketball Rules shall remain the principal
document governing ABI basketball. However, the referee shall have the full power
and authority to make decisions on any point not specifically covered in the rule
book or in the following ABI and ABI Official Interpretations.
by the ABI Technical Commission. The rules are kept as clear and comprehensive
as possible, but they express principles rather than play situations. They cannot,
however, cover the rich variety of specific cases that could happen during a
basketball game. The aim of this document is to convert the principles and
concepts of the rule book into practical and specific situations as they might arise
in a normal basketball game. The interpretations of the different situations can
stimulate the officials’ minds and will complement an initial detailed study of the
rules themselves. The Official ABI Basketball Rules shall remain the principal
document governing ABI basketball. However, the referee shall have the full power
and authority to make decisions on any point not specifically covered in the rule
book or in the following ABI and ABI Official Interpretations.
| Download a Copy: 2009-2010 ABI Official Rules & Regulations |
| Copyright 2010 Americas Basketball International. All Rights Reserved. |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| Stay Connected |
Facebook
Twitter
