NCAA Casebook 2015-16 Flashcards
A.R. 1. Visiting Team B’s captain notices that Team B’s pregame warmup balls are of a different type than the official game ball. Team B’s coach requests that Team B be allowed to warm-up using the type of ball to be used in the game.
RULING: The official shall inform Team A’s game management that Team B shall be allowed to warm-up with the same type of ball(s) that will be used during the game.
(Rule 1-16.10 Note)
A.R. 2. A game is being played in an arena with a game clock being displayed on the shot clock located above the basket as well as in another location in the arena. Which clock is the official game clock?
RULING: The game clock shall be the official, visible timepiece on which the time remaining in a period shall be displayed and shall show a 10th-of-a-second display when less than one minute remains in a period. The referee, per Rule 2-5.2, shall designate the official game clock. However, when there is a game clock display located on the shot clock, it shall be the official game clock.
(Rule 1-18.2 and 2-5.2)
A.R. 3. The visiting team is advised that its team bench is located:
- Farther from the division line than the home team’s; or
- On the opposite end line from the home team’s bench
RULING: The game shall be played with benches as located by home- team management. The referee has no authority to move either bench unless for player safety; however, mutual consent should have been obtained before the game. Every reasonable attempt shall be made by game administration to provide team benches that are equidistant from the division line.
(Rule 1-21.2)
A.R. 4. Contesting teams have uniforms of the same color.
RULING: When possible, each team should have two sets of uniforms, one of light color and the other of dark color. The light color shall be for home games; however, this rule may be altered by mutual consent of competing institutions. The team that violates this rule shall change. When there is doubt, the officials shall require the home team to change.
(Rule 1-22.4)
A.R. 5 Team A is wearing a patch that is not an American flag, an institution or conference official logo/mascot or a commemorative/memorial patch. The patch is located in the area between the base of the front neckline and the shoulder seam of the jersey. Is this legal?
RULING: No. Only an American flag, an institution or conference official logo/mascot and/or a commemorative/memorial patch meeting all other rule requirements shall be located in this area. When the American flag is used, it can only be located in this area on the left side of the game jersey.
(Rule 1-22.7.c and .d)
A.R. 6. An official tells A1 to tuck in his game jersey and then issues a warning to the coach of Team A. Later in the game, A2 is fouled. Before giving A2 disposal of the ball for the free throw, the official notices that A2’s game jersey is untucked.
RULING: A2 shall be permitted to attempt the free throw(s). When the free throw(s) are successful, he shall be instructed to leave the game. When the free throw(s)s are not successful and he does not rectify the game jersey violation before the next dead ball, A2 shall be instructed to leave the game.
(Rule 1-22.10 Note and 1-22.4)
A.R. 7. May a player remain in the game when he is wearing an illegal
undershirt or undergarment?
RULING: No. Similar to the rule regarding jewelry, illegal undershirts or undergarments shall not be worn. The player shall leave the game and remove the illegal apparel; however, no technical foul shall be assessed.
(Rule 1-23.1 and .2)
A.R. 8. Substitute A6 attempts to enter the playing court with a headband or wristband that is not a single, dominant color of the game jersey, black, white or beige.
RULING: Substitute A6 shall not be permitted to enter the game before either wearing the appropriate headband or wristband or removing the illegal ones.
(Rule 1-24)
A.R. 9. Before the start of the game, the officials notice that A1 is wearing white knee pads, A3 is wearing a black knee sleeve and A5 is wearing a blue knee brace.
RULING: Knee/leg sleeves may be white, black, beige or the color of the game shorts and teammates must wear the same color. This rule applies to anything that is worn on the leg except a knee brace. Typically, a knee brace contains hinges and/or straps and/or an opening over the kneecap. Knee braces, by this general definition, do not have to comply with this color rule. However, any other sleeve-like (covers part of the leg) worn on the knee/leg does have to comply with this color rule and teammates not wearing knee braces must wear the same color. The sleeve worn under the knee brace can be either the same color as the knee brace or the same color of the knee/leg sleeves worn by teammates.
When players do not comply with this rule, officials are not to tell players to remove anything, but are to instruct them/their coach that they are not permitted to play until they comply with this rule.
(Rule 1-24.4)
A.R. 10. Substitute A6 attempts to enter the playing court wearing jewelry, an illegal headpiece, helmet or hat.
RULING: Substitute A6 shall not be permitted to enter before removing the jewelry, illegal headpiece, helmet or hat. A6 cannot “buy” his way into the game and the right to wear the illegal jewelry, illegal headpiece, helmet or hat by being charged with a technical foul.
(Rule 1-26.7)
A.R. 11. Player A5 is found to be wearing jewelry.
RULING: At the first dead ball, A5 shall be required to remove the jewelry immediately or be required to leave the game and not return until after removing the jewelry. A5 cannot “buy” the right to wear the jewelry by being charged with a technical foul.
(Rule 1-26.7)
A.R. 12. Team A is ahead by one point. The game-ending horn sounds with the ball loose at the division line. Clearly after playing time has expired, A1 taunts B1. The referee, before checking/approving the final score, sees this action by A1 and assesses a CLASS A technical foul against A1. Team A’s coach pushes the referee after the technical foul is called. The referee assesses a flagrant 2 technical to Team A’s coach, ejects the coach and awards Team B four free throws.
RULING: The referee is correct. The officials’ jurisdiction does not end until the approval of the final score. Until the officials’ jurisdiction ends, an official may call a technical foul, correct a correctable error (Rule 2-12), or correct a bookkeeping mistake by the official scorer.
(Rule 2-4.3)
A.R. 13. The officials leave the playing area at the end of the game, and while they are in the locker room, it is discovered that there is a mistake in the score or that there was a request for a correctable error (Rule 2-12).
RULING: When the officials leave the visual confines of the playing court when the last period is over, the score has been approved and the game is over.
(Rule 2-4.3)
A.R. 14. When an official is required to hand/bounce the ball to the thrower-in, is it the duty of the official to wait until both teams are ready before doing so?
RULING: No. The resumption-of-play procedure is in effect for the entire game, except to start the second half or any extra period. After the official has given the direction signal and other necessary information, teams are expected to be ready for all normal play situations. When the official inadvertently indicates the wrong team for a throw-in and discovers the error before the throw-in ends, the official should withhold the ball from play to permit the players to re-deploy themselves. The officials should not permit unusual delays during a throw-in.
(Rule 2-7.13 and 4-31)
A.R. 15. B1 commits a fifth foul [any combination of personal and CLASS A technical fouls], which results in two free throws for A1. The official scorer and official timer fail to notify any of the game officials that a fifth foul has been committed. When the scorers realize the mistake, they inform theofficial timer to sound the game-clock horn. The official timer sounds the device as the first of two free throws is made or missed. The referee asks the scorers’ table personnel to explain the problem. The referee is advised that B1 has committed five fouls, after which the referee advises the coach and player of Team B that B1 has five fouls. The coach replaces B1.
RULING: Play shall be resumed with the second free throw by A1. There is no additional penalty assessed for the official scorer’s and timer’s mistake in failing to notify the officials of B1’s fifth foul.
(Rule 2-9.4 and 3-6.2.b)
A.R. 16. A player who has committed a fifth foul [any combination of personal fouls and CLASS A technical fouls] continues to play because the scorers have failed to notify the officials.
RULING: As soon as the scorers discover the irregularity, they should sound the game-clock horn as soon as the ball is in control of the offending team or is dead. The disqualified player shall be removed immediately. Any points that may have been scored while such a player was illegally in the game shall count.
(Rule 2-9.4)
A.R. 17. At halftime, the official scorer, who is a member of the home-team
faculty, removes the scorebook from the scorers’ table:
1. Of his or her own volition; or
2. At the request of the home-team coach.
RULING 1: When the scorebook is not taken to the home team’s locker room, there should be no penalty. When there is evidence that the official scorer removed the scorebook to take it to the home-team locker room, an administrative technical foul shall be assessed. This administrative technical foul does not count toward the team foul count.
2: When the home-team coach instructs the official scorer to remove the scorebook, the head coach shall be assessed a CLASS B technical foul.
(Rule 2-9.11, 10-2.4 and 10-4.2.e)
A.R. 18. When may a scorer signal the officials by sounding the horn?
RULING: When the scorer desires to call attention to a player who is illegally in the game, the scorer may signal the official when the ball is in control of that player’s team or when the ball becomes dead. When it is for an illegal substitution, the scorer may signal when the next dead ball occurs or when the offending team has team control. When it is for conferring with an official, the scorer may signal when the ball is dead. When the scorer signals while the ball is live, the official shall ignore the signal when a scoring play is in progress. Otherwise, the official may signal for the game clock to be stopped to determine the reason for the signal.
(Rule 2-9.14)
A.R. 19. The game-clock horn sounds while the ball is live.
RULING: Players should ignore the game-clock horn since it does not cause a dead ball. The officials shall use their judgment in blowing the ball dead to consult with the scorers and timers. When the players on both teams do not ignore the game-clock horn and stop playing, the officials shall stop play and award the ball to the team in control at a designated spot nearest to where the ball was when the stoppage occurred.
(Rule 2-9.14)
A.R. 20. The official scorer fails to record two points awarded to Team A by
an official during the first half as a result of basket interference by B2.
RULING: The scorer’s mistake shall be rectified at any time until the referee approves the final score.
(Rule 2-9.16)
A.R. 21. After two minutes of the first extra period, it is discovered that during the second half of regulation play, the official scorer failed to record one point as a result of a made free throw by Team A.
RULING: The score shall be recorded and play shall be continued at a designated spot from the point of interruption.
(Rule 2-9.16)
A.R. 22. In a game with no official courtside monitor, the red light or LED lights that signal the end of the last period cannot be seen nor can the game- clock horn be heard. The officials disagree whether the ball was in flight during a try for field goal or whether a foul occurred before time expired.
RULING: The final decision shall be made by the referee. The official timer shall indicate if the ball was in flight before the red light or LED lights signal was activated or before the game-clock horn sounded only when requested to do so by the referee. The referee shall use his best judgment, but when the evidence for counting or not counting the goal or foul is equal, the referee shall rule that the goal counts and that the foul shall be charged. In a game with an official courtside monitor and a game clock with a 10th-of-a second display, the status of the try for goal and the committed foul shall be ascertained with the use of the courtside monitor using first, zeroes on the game clock then the red or LED lights when the game clock is not visible and the horn when neither is available.
(Rule 2-10.15.c, 2-6.3, 11-1.2, 11-3 and 5-7.2)
A.R. 23. A1 touches the ball that was thrown in by A2. The ball strikes the playing court and bounces until A3 gains control by dribbling. The shot- clock operator started the shot clock when A1 touched the ball.
RULING: The operator was correct. When play is resumed by a throw-in, the game clock and shot clock shall be started when the ball is legally touched by or touches a player on the playing court.
(Rule 2-11.5)
A.R. 24. Player B1 deflects A1’s pass toward the sideline. Player B2 chases the ball and while airborne and before landing out of bounds, throws the ball backward onto the playing court where it is recovered by Team A. The shot clock operator resets the shot clock. Is the shot clock operator correct?
RULING: Yes. The act of throwing the ball backwards and onto the court demonstrates team control by Team B; therefore, the shot clock is reset.
(Rule 2-11-6.a and 4-9.1)
A.R. 25. With the alternating-possession arrow favoring Team A and 20 seconds remaining on the shot clock, A1’s try for goal lodges between the backboard and the ring/flange.
RULING: Team A shall be awarded possession for a throw-in and the shot clock shall be reset.
(Rule 2-11.6.d)
A.R. 26. A1 releases the ball on a try for goal and then B1 partially blocks the shot and the ball: 1. Hits the ring or flange; or 2. Goes through the basket; or 3. Goes out of bounds.
RULING 1 and 2: The play is legal and the action shall continue.
3: The official shall blow the whistle to stop play and the shot-clock operator shall stop but not reset the shot clock. On the ensuing throw-in by Team A, the game clock and shot clock shall start when the throw-in touches any player on the playing court.
(Rule 2-11.7.a)
A.R. 27. Team A is in control of the ball when A1 and B1 commit a double personal foul, neither of which are flagrant fouls. While reporting the foul, the official assesses a technical foul against the coach of:
- Team A; or
- Team B.
RULING: Charge the fouls to A1 and B1, but no free throws are awarded. In (1) and (2), any player from the offended team shall attempt the two free throws for the technical foul. Play shall be resumed at the point of interruption, with the ball awarded to Team A, the team in control, at a designated spot nearest to where the ball was located when the double personal foul was committed.
1: Since the technical foul was assessed to the coach of Team A, the team in control, the shot clock shall not be reset.
2: Since the technical foul was assessed to the coach of Team B, the shot clock shall be reset.
(Rule 2-11.7.h, 2-11.6.b.2 and 10-1 Penalty f )
A.R. 28. After the bonus is in effect, B1 is penalized for holding A1. A1 erroneously is not awarded a free throw. A1 is awarded the ball out of boundsand completes the throw-in to A2. The coach of Team A notifies the official scorer that the coach wants to meet with the official concerning a correctable error. When Team A scores a field goal, the official scorer sounds the game- clock horn and advises the official of the coach’s request for the conference. The official recognizes the correctable error after talking with the coach and official scorer.
RULING: The field goal by Team A shall count. This error is correctable because it happened within the prescribed time limit of Rule 2-12. A1 shall be awarded his merited free throw(s) and play shall be resumed with a throw-in by Team B, who is entitled to run the end line.
(Rule 2-12.1.a, 2-12.5, 2-12.2 and 2-10.13.a)
A.R. 29. B1 pushes A1 during an unsuccessful try. A1 is awarded two free throws. The first free throw by A1 is successful, after which B2 takes the ball out of bounds under Team A’s basket and passes to B3, who passes to B4 for an uncontested field goal in Team B’s basket. The captain of Team A then calls to the attention of an official that A1 did not receive a second free throw.
RULING: The goal by B4 shall count. A1 shall be permitted to attempt the second free throw with no players lined up along the free- throw lane. The ball shall then be awarded to Team A out of bounds at the end line nearer Team B’s basket and the thrower-in shall be permitted to run the end line. This was the point where the game was stopped to correct the error.
(Rule 2-12-1.a and 2-12.2)
A.R. 30. A1 commits a non-shooting personal foul on B1. The calling official reports to the scorer that A2 committed the foul. Team B inbounds the ball and the official realizes that he has reported an incorrect number of the fouling player to the scorer. May the official correct the mistake with the scorer?
RULING: Even though this mistake is not included in the correctable error rule (2-12.1) or is not a bookkeeping mistake by the scorer (2-9.16), the officials may make the correction during the first dead ball after the game clock has been properly started (2-12.2). Officials may also use the monitor to determine the correct player to be charged within the same time frame. (11-2.1.d.2.a)
This type of mistake should rarely, if ever, occur. If there is uncertainty as to the player to be charged, officials have the authority to use instant replay to make the proper determination of the player to be charged with a foul.
(Rule 2-12.1, 2-12.2 and 11-2.1.d.2.a)
A.R. 31. Before the bonus rule is in effect, B1 fouls A1. The official errors by awarding A1 a one-and-one attempt.
1. A1 makes the first free-throw try, and the error is then discovered; or
2. A1 is successful in both free throws and then the official detects the error; or
3. A1 misses the front end of the one-and-one and the game clock starts, at which time the official detects the error; or
4. A1 is successful in the first bonus attempt but misses the second free throw and, as a result, the game clock starts and B1 scores a field goal.
In each of the four situations, the error shall be called to the attention of the official before or during the first dead ball after the game clock has been properly started.
RULING: Each of the four situations is a correctable error.
1, 2 and 3: Team A shall be awarded the ball at a designated spot nearest to where the foul occurred. The free throw(s) and activity during it, other than any technical foul or a flagrant 1 or 2 personal foul, shall be canceled. Any points scored, time consumed and additional activity that may occur before the recognition of the error, shall not be nullified.
4: Team A shall be awarded the ball out of bounds at Team B’s end line, which was the point of interruption to correct the error. The free throw(s) and activity during it, other than any technical foul or a flagrant 1 or 2 personal foul, shall be canceled. Any points scored, time consumed and additional activity that may occur before the recognition of the error, shall not be nullified.
(Rule 2-12-1.b, 2-12.5 and 2-12.2)
A.R. 32. B1 fouls A1 and it is Team B’s ninth foul of the second half. The
official erroneously awards A1 two free throws instead of a one-and-one.A1:
1. Makes two free throws; or
2. Misses the first free throw and makes the second free throw; or
3. Misses both free throws.
Within the correctable-error time limitations, the officials are notified of their error.
RULING 1: A1 was entitled to the second free throw because the first free throw was successful. Both free throws shall count, and play shall be resumed at the point of interruption, which is where play was stopped to correct the error.
2: A1’s first free throw, to which he was entitled as the first part of a one-and-one, was unsuccessful and the player should not have been awarded a second free throw. The successful second free throw shall be nullified, and play shall be resumed at the point of interruption, which is where play was stopped to correct the error.
3: A1’s unmerited second free throw was unsuccessful, so it shall be ignored, and play shall be resumed at the point of interruption, which is where play was stopped to correct the error.
(Rule 2-12.1.b, 2-12.5 and 2-12.2)
A.R. 33. A1 is fouled by B1 during a field-goal attempt and the try is successful. A2 erroneously is awarded the free throw. While A2’s successful attempt is in the air.
1. B3 fouls A3; or
2. B3 commits a flagrant 1 personal foul against A3.
After the successful free throw by A2 and before the ball becomes live on the throw-in, the coach of Team B properly asks the referee to correct the error of awarding the free throw to the wrong player.
RULING: The free throw by A2 shall be canceled, and A1 shall properly attempt the free throw. The common foul by B3 in (1) shall be canceled. The flagrant 1 personal foul in (2) cannot be canceled. The error shall be corrected when A1 is given the free throw to which A1 was entitled as a result of the original foul. In (2), the game shall continue with the administration of the two free throws to A3 resulting from the flagrant 1 personal foul by B3. Team A shall be awarded the ball at the designated spot nearest to where the foul by B3 occurred.
(Rule 2-12-1.c and 2-12.5)
A.R. 34. (1) A1 or (2) B1 is called for basket interference at Team A’s basket. In (1), the referee erroneously counts the score or, in (2), erroneously fails to count the score. In each case, the error is discovered during the first dead ball after the game clock has started.
RULING: In (1) and (2), the official made a judgment that basket interference occurred. However, after the judgment was made, the official erred, in (1) by erroneously counting the score and in (2) by failing to count the goal. The official’s error in (1) and (2) shall be correctable because the error was recognized within the proper time limit.
(Rule 2-12.1.e and 2-12.3)
A.R. 35. Team A has the ball and is working for a shot. The shot-clock horn sounds and then A1 shoots and scores an apparent field goal. The shot-clock horn is not heard by the officials on the playing court. Play continues with Team B inbounding the ball. With 20 seconds remaining on the shot clock, the official calls traveling on B1. At that time, the official timer calls the referee to the scorers’ table to explain that the shot clock had sounded before A1 released the ball for the try.
RULING: Officials are permitted to use information from table officials to make corrections. Since it is within the correctable-error time frame, the error can be corrected. When it is determined, in the official’s judgment, that the try was released after the shot-clock horn sounded, the goal shall be canceled. Since the clock was running in this case, the official has until the second live ball after the error to make the correction. The error shall be correctable until the ball is put in play after the traveling call.
(Rule 2-12.1.e, 2-12.3 and 2-7.6)
A.R. 36. B1 fouls A1 after the bonus is in effect. A1 is not awarded the bonus free throws. Team A is awarded the throw-in. Team A controls the ball inbounds, and A3 eventually asks for and receives a timeout. During the timeout, an official recognizes the correctable error or it is called to his attention that A1 should have been awarded a one-and-one free throw.
RULING: A1 shall be awarded the one-and-one and play shall be resumed as after any normal free throw. Points scored, time consumed and additional activity that may occur before the recognition of the error shall not be nullified.
(Rule 2-12.5 and 2.12.1.a)
A.R. 37. Teams A and B each have co-captains. At the pregame conference, one of the co-captains requests permission from the referee to allow both co-captains to confer with officials on interpretations.
RULING: Co-captains may participate in the pregame conference, but only one co-captain of each team may confer with the officials during the game. During the pregame conference, the referee shall be informed which co-captain of each team shall be the speaking co-captain during the game.
(Rule 3-2.1)
A.R. 38. Nine minutes before the scheduled starting time for the game, Team A presents its team roster and its starting lineup to the official scorer and then, at six minutes before the game’s starting time, Team A presents four additional names to the official scorer for the team list.
RULING: Team A shall be assessed two administrative technical fouls. One administrative technical foul is for failing to supply the scorers with the names, numbers and designated starters BEFORE the 10-minute mark is reached on the game clock that is counting down the time before the start of the game. The second administrative technical foul is for changes made to the scorebook AFTER the 10-minute mark is reached on the game clock before the start of the game. Four free throws shall be awarded to Team B, and the game shall start with a jump ball. These administrative technical fouls do not count toward the team foul count.
(Rule 3-4.1, 3-4.2 and 10-2.2 Penalty)
A.R. 39. Team A properly submits its team list and designates its five starters in compliance with the rule before the 10-minute mark is reached on the game clock that is counting down the time before the start of the game. However, the uniform number for each team member is erroneously indicated. The mistake is not detected until approximately 11⁄2 minutes have been played.
RULING: An administrative technical foul shall be charged to Team A. A player shall wear the uniform number indicated in the scorebook or the scorebook number shall be changed to that which he is wearing. When the team member, before participating, changes the uniform number he wears to that indicated in the scorebook, there shall be no penalty. When the number in the scorebook for a player(s) must be changed for reasons other than those permitted by rule, one administrative technical foul shall be assessed regardless of how many changes are made. These administrative technical fouls do not count toward the team foul count.
(Rule 3-4.2 and 10-2.2.b Penalty)
A.R. 40. A1, who is designated as a starter 10 minutes before the scheduled
starting time of the game, becomes ill one minute before the game is to start.
RULING: A1 may be replaced without an administrative technical foul being assessed. Illness or injury is considered to be an extenuating and unavoidable circumstance that permits a substitution without penalty. A1 shall be permitted to enter the game later if able.
(Rule 3-4.2)
A.R. 41. After a successful free throw, A1 enters the playing court before the throw-in. A1’s illegal entry is not detected until after the ball becomes live.
RULING: A1 became a legal player when the ball became live. Because discovery of the illegal substitution came after the ball became live, the infraction by A1 shall be ignored.
(Rule 3-6.1.d)
A.R. 42. A6 and A7 have reported to the scorers and are waiting to enter the game. Team A commits a violation, and during the dead-ball period, Team B calls a timeout. The coach from Team A changes his mind and wants A8 and A9 to report and enter the game rather than A6 and A7.
RULING: A8’s and A9’s substitutions are legal when they have reported to the official scorer before the warning signal.
(Rule 3-6.1.g)
A.R. 43. After the second signal sounds indicating the expiration of a timeout, A1 goes to the free-throw line to attempt two free throws. Before the first free throw, A6 reports to the official scorer and tries to enter the game as a substitute.
RULING: A6 cannot enter the game because he did not report before the warning signal and there has been no live ball.
(Rule 3-6.1.g and 3-6.2.b)
A.R. 44. A1 scores a field goal and the clock is stopped with 36.0 seconds
remaining in the game.
1, Before the throw-in ends and the clock is started, the official notices blood on A3.
2. The throw-in ends and the clock is properly started when the official notices blood on A3.
RULING: The officials shall stop play and present the head coach with the following three options: (a) Keep the player in the game when the issue can be resolved in 20 seconds; (b) Substitute the player immediately or substitute when the issue cannot be resolved in 20 seconds; (c) Call a timeout immediately or call a timeout when theissue cannot be resolved in 20 seconds so that the bleeding player can remain in the game.
1: After any of these options, play shall be resumed with a throw-in by Team B anywhere along the end line. No substitutes shall be permitted in (a) and (b) since play was stopped after a successful field goal and before the clock was properly started. However, when the coach chooses not to take a timeout and instead, replaces the bleeding player, the opponent is permitted to counter with a substitution. In this case, the substitute for the bleeding player and the counter substitute are the only substitutes permitted since play was stopped for blood after a successful field goal in the last 59.9 seconds of the game and before the clock was properly started. In (c), substitutes are permitted since a timeout was called.
2: After any of these options, play shall be resumed with a throw-in by Team B at a designated spot nearest to where play was stopped for the blood issue and substitutes shall be permitted as they would be in any other dead-ball period since the game clock was properly started on the throw-in.
(Rule 3-6.1.h and 3-6.3.a)
A.R. 45. After a successful field goal with 48 seconds left on the game clock,
the timer sounds the game-clock horn for substitute A6 to enter the game.
RULING: A6 shall not be permitted to enter. While the game clock is stopped after successful field goals in the last 59.9 seconds of play, only those substitutions permitted by rule are allowed. A team may request a timeout and then make substitutions anytime the ball is dead and the game clock is stopped.
(Rule 3-6.1.h)
A.R. 46. Team A scores with 59.9 seconds left to play in the second half.
1. The timer fails to stop the game clock. The official blows his whistle to stop the clock and to correct the mistake, During this stoppage, Team A requests a timeout; or
2. The official inadvertently blows his whistle to recognize a timeout request by Team A when the ball is at Team B’s disposal for a throw-in; or
3. Team B is having difficulty inbounding the ball because of defensive pressure and requests a timeout.
May these timeout requests be granted and when are substitutions permitted to enter the game?
RULING: In (1), the request by either team for a timeout shall be recognized and granted since the request was made during a dead ball. Substitutions are permitted during this timeout period. However, when a timeout is not requested, there shall be no substitution during the dead ball period created by the timer’s mistake.
2: The inadvertent whistle shall be ignored. When Team A requests a timeout during this dead ball, the timeout shall be recognized and granted since the request occurred during the dead ball created by the inadvertent whistle. Substitutions are permitted during this timeout period. However, when a timeout is not requested, there shall be no substitution during the dead ball period created by the inadvertent whistle.
3: Team B’s request for a timeout shall be recognized and granted because a player of that team is in control of the ball. Substitutions are permitted during this timeout.
(Rule 3-6.1.h)
A.R. 47. After A1’s successful try, the game clock is stopped with 56.0
seconds remaining in the game:
1. B1 completes a throw-in to B2, but the clock was not properly started. The official stops play immediately to correct the timing mistake. Substitutes are available at the table.
2. B1 completes a throw-in to B2 and the clock is properly started. While the ball is in B2’s possession, A2 creates a held ball. The alternating possession arrow favors Team B. Substitutes are available at the table.
RULING 1: The officials shall correct the timing mistake by placing the correct time on the game and shot clocks, and play shall be resumed at the point of interruption. Substitutes shall not be permitted during this dead ball period, since the timing mistake occurred with 59.9 seconds or less remaining on the game clock. Since the play was stopped to correct a timing mistake that occurred after a made field goal when there was less than 59.9 seconds remaining in the game and before the game clock was properly started, substitutes shall not be permitted.
2: Since play was stopped for the held ball and not to correct a timing mistake or for an inadvertent whistle, all substitution rules apply. Play shall be resumed with an alternating possession throw-in to Team B at a designated spot nearest to where the held ball occurred with no reset of the shot clock.
(Rule 3-6.1.h)
A.R. 48. A technical foul is assessed to Team B before the start of the game. The coach from Team A wants to replace designated starter A5 with A6 so A6 can shoot the free throws. Is this permissible?
RULING: Yes. A6 is permitted to replace designated starter A5 to shoot the free throws for the technical foul. When the ball is placed at the disposal of A6 for the free throw, the game has begun and thereafter, all substitution rules apply. Any team member is eligible to become a substitute with the exception of A5, who shall not be permitted to re-enter until the game clock has been properly started after his replacement.
(Rule 3-6.1.j, 3-6.1.k, 5-7.1, 7-4.7 and Rule 10-3 through 4 Penalty)
A.R. 49. A technical foul is assessed against Team A. B6 replaces B1 and makes both free throws. After the final attempt, B1 desires to re-enter.
RULING: Illegal. B1 may not re-enter before the next opportunity to substitute after the game clock has properly started after he was replaced.
(Rule 3-6.1.j)
A.R. 50. During a dead ball, A6 replaces A5. Before the ball is put into play, a technical foul is assessed against Team B. A5 is designated by the coach to enter the game and attempt the free throw(s) resulting from Team B’s technical foul.
RULING: A5 may not re-enter to attempt the free throw(s) because the game clock has not been started since A5 left the game.
(Rule 3-6.1.j)
A.R. 51. After the second signal sounds indicating the expiration of a timeout, A1 goes to the free-throw line to attempt two free throws. After the first free throw is successful and before the ball is at the disposal of A1 for the second free throw, A6 reports to the official scorer to become a substitute and then tries to enter the game as a substitute.
RULING: A6 shall be allowed to enter before the last attempt of the multiple personal foul free throw.
(Rule 3-6.2.b)
A.R. 52. In a game involving the electronic-media timeout format, A1 is fouled in the act of shooting, creating the first dead ball after the eight- minute mark. A1’s try for goal is unsuccessful. B1 reported to the scorer before the foul and was waiting to enter the game. When is B1 permitted to enter the game?
RULING: B1 is permitted to enter the game after the electronic media timeout ends and before A1 attempts the first try of the multiple free- throw sequence.
(Rule 3-6.2.b.1)
A.R. 53. B6 and B7 have legally reported to the official scorer when A1:
- Fouls B1 during a three-point try that was unsuccessful;
- Is assessed a technical foul; or
- Is assessed a technical foul, which is his fifth disqualifying foul. When may B6 and B7 enter the game?
RULING 1: Since multiple free throws shall be awarded, B6 and B7 are permitted to enter the game only before the final attempt or after the final try is successful.
(Rule 3-6.2.b)
2: B6 and B7 are permitted to enter the game before the first attempt or after the final attempt for the technical foul and before play is resumed at the point of interruption.
(Rule 3-6.2.c)
3: Since B6 and B7 had legally reported to the official scorer before A1 had to be replaced, they may enter the game after A1’s replacement enters the game.
(Rule 3-6.2.c and 3-6.3.c and 4-12.1 and .5)
A.R. 54. A1 is fouled during an unsuccessful try for goal. During the try, A3 is injured or is bleeding, has blood on his body, or his uniform is saturated with blood and he cannot continue to play.
RULING: The required substitute shall be permitted to enter the game before the first try of the multiple free throws. In addition, all substitutes who had legally reported to the official scorer before the player who had to be replaced may enter the game.
A bleeding player, a player with blood on the body, or a player wearing a uniform saturated with blood has 20 seconds to resolve the issue. If the issue cannot be resolved in 20 seconds, that player is required to be replaced unless that player’s coach requests and is granted a timeout. When a substitute is required, all substitutes who had legally reported to the official scorer before the player who had to be replaced may enter the game.
(Rule 3-6.3.a and .c)
A.R. 55. While A1 is dribbling, the referee notices blood on A1’s game jersey. The referee blows the whistle to stop play. A1 goes to the bench and medical personnel:
- Determine that the game jersey is not saturated with blood; or
- Determine that the game jersey is saturated with blood.
RULING 1: A1 may remain in the game without penalty.
2: A1 shall be given 20 seconds to resolve the situation. When A1 has not resolved the situation, A1 shall be replaced or a timeout may be called by A1’s team. At the end of the timeout, the affected player must be ready to play when the final horn sounds ending the timeout. If the player is not ready to play, the coach must immediately replace the player with a substitute. In this case, the opposing team is permitted to counter with a substitute. The affected player may not re-enter the game until the next legal opportunity to substitute after the clock has started.
(Rule 3-6.3.b, 3-6.3.a and 5-11.8)
A.R. 56. A1 and B1 collide and:
- Are injured;
- Are bleeding; and
- Are evaluated and it is determined that their uniforms are saturated with blood. The coach from Team A requests and is granted a timeout.
RULING: When a timeout is requested and granted to either team, one or both players are permitted to remain in the game after the expiration of the timeout. No bleeding can be in evidence. A uniform that is saturated with blood must be replaced.
(Rule 3-6.3.b, and .e and 5-11.8)
A.R. 57. A1 is fouled and his try for goal is unsuccessful. During the try:
- B1 commits his fifth (disqualifying) foul against A1; or
- A4 is wearing illegal apparel.
RULING 1 and 2: The required substitute shall be permitted to enter the game before the first try of the multiple free throws. In addition, all substitutes who had legally reported to the official scorer before the player who had to be replaced, may enter the game.
(Rule 3-6.3.c)
A.R. 58. There are no substitutes at the scorer’s table when A1 receives a fifth and disqualifying foul. The official notifies the Team A coach and then A1 of the disqualification.
- Before the official instructs the timer to begin the 15-second time period to replace the disqualified player, two Team A players, neither of whom are substituting for the disqualified player, report to the scorer.
- During the 15-second time period to replace the disqualified player, two Team A substitutes report to the scorer just before A6 reports as the substitute to replace A1.
- As soon as the coach is notified that A1 has been disqualified and before the 15-second time period to replace the disqualified player has started, the coach substitutes A6 for A1.
RULING: When a player is disqualified for the fifth foul committed, the officials will first get a substitute for the disqualified player, and then all substitutes who had legally reported before the player who had to be replaced may enter the game when the substitute for the disqualified player is beckoned onto the court. In (1) and (2) the substitutes who legally reported to the table before A6, the substitute for the disqualified player, may enter after A6 enters the game. In (3), once A6 is beckoned onto the floor, no other substitutions are permitted until the next opportunity for substitutions.
(Rule 3-6.3.c)
A.R. 59. A1 is fouled during an unsuccessful try for goal and appears to be injured. A1 is upset with the play and is assessed an unsportsmanlike CLASS A technical foul, which is A1’s fifth and disqualifying foul. The official scorer informs the official that A1 has been disqualified.
RULING: Any member of Team B may attempt the free throws for the technical foul assessed to A1. Play shall be resumed at the point of interruption. The substitute for disqualified player A1 shall attempt the free throws awarded when A1 was fouled. A1 was unable to attempt his free throws because he was a disqualified player and, by rule, had to be replaced. A1’s injury should not be considered in adjudicating the play.
(Rule 3-6.3.c, 8-3.2.c, 8-3.4, 8-6.1 and 4-27.1)
A.R. 60. A1 is injured and the referee beckons the coach and/or athletic trainer onto the playing court to assist the injured player. After the injured player is replaced, Team B requests and is granted a timeout. Play is about to resume and A1 is back on the playing court.
RULING: A1 shall be prohibited from staying on the playing court. Team B’s timeout does not make A1 eligible to return to play. Team A must request and be granted a charged timeout in order for A1 to remain in the game.
(Rule 3-6.3.d and 5-14.12.a)
A.R. 61. A1 is bleeding from a blow to the head and is unable to attempt his free throw(s). Is Rule 3-6.3.f concerning an injured player applicable?
RULING: The intent of Rule 3-6.3.f is to eliminate the situation whereby a poor free-throw shooter faked an injury so that he could be replaced by a higher percentage shooter. Obviously, a bleeding player is not faking an injury. Consequently, Rule 3-6.3.f is not applicable. The bleeding player shall be instructed by the official to leave the game for attention by medical personnel. His coach may exercise the option of substituting for the bleeding player or calling a timeout.
(Rule 3-6.3.f and 8-3.2)
A.R. 62. A1 is fouled and is unable to attempt his free throw(s). The coach from Team A requests a timeout. The referee recognizes and grants this timeout.
RULING: The referee shall instruct the official scorer to note which four players from Team A were on the playing court before the timeout was granted. At the end of the timeout when it is determined that A1 is unable to attempt his free throw(s), the coach from Team B shall select one of the four remaining players to attempt the free throw(s). That selection, once made, is final and unalterable.
An immediate substitution for the injured player shall be required after the final horn that indicates the expiration of the timeout. The opponent shall then be permitted to counter with a substitution. Any other substitution(s) must have reported to, or be in position to report to, the official scorer before the warning horn. However, his entry onto the playing court shall not be permitted until the coach from Team B has selected who shall attempt the free throw(s) for the injured player.
(Rule 3-6.3.f, 8-3.3 and 3-6.1.g)
A.R. 63. B1 commits a flagrant 2 personal foul against A1. After B1’s flagrant 2 foul, the coach from Team B is assessed a CLASS A technical foul. A1 was injured and was unable to attempt his free throws. The coach from Team A selects A7 to attempt the two free throws awarded for B1’s flagrant 2 foul and the two free throws for the CLASS A technical foul. The referee permitted A7 to attempt the free throws. Is this correct?
RULING: The referee was correct in allowing A7 to attempt the four free throws. When a player is injured as a result of either a flagrant 1 or flagrant 2 personal foul and is unable to attempt his free throws, the coach of the injured player is permitted to select any player or team member to attempt the free throws. In addition, when a technical foul is assessed, any player or team member is allowed to attempt the two free throws. After the four free throws are attempted, the ball is awarded to Team A, the offended team, and play shall be resumed at the point of interruption, which is the designated spot nearest to where the flagrant 2 personal foul was committed. When the coach from Team A selects two different individuals to attempt the free throws, since a false multiple foul has been committed, the penalty for the CLASS A technical foul shall be administered, followed by the penalty for the flagrant 2 personal foul. The ball is awarded to Team A, the offended team, and play shall be resumed at the point of interruption, which is the designated spot nearest to where the flagrant 2 personal foul was committed.
(Rule 3-6.3.f, 8-3.3, 8-3.4, 8-6.1, 4-15.6, 4-27.1 and 10-1 Penalty g)
A.R. 64. A1 is in the air on a jump shot in the lane. A1 releases the ball on a try and is fouled by B1, who has jumped in an unsuccessful attempt to block the shot. A1’s try is:
1. Successful; or 2. Unsuccessful.
RULING: A1 shall be an airborne shooter when the ball is released until he returns to the floor. An airborne shooter shall be in the act of shooting. B1 has fouled A1 in the act of shooting. A1 shall be awarded one free throw in (1), and two in (2).
(Rule 4-1)
A.R. 65. B1 is standing directly behind the backboard before A1 jumps for a layup. The forward momentum of airborne shooter A1 causes A1 to displace B1.
RULING: This is an offensive foul on A1 beacuse A1 is not located in the Restricted Area.
(Rule 4-7, 4-15.2.a.1, 4-30)
A.R. 66. Team A is not ready to take the playing court after the second signal sounds indicating the end of the halftime intermission.
RULING: The referee should ask the timer to start the digital device used to time timeouts. When Team A is not ready to play at the expiration of one minute, Team A shall be assessed an administrative technical foul for delay of game. Team B shall be awarded one free throw and play shall be resumed at the point of interruption. When Team A is entitled to the alternating-possession arrow, it shall not lose control of the arrow until the throw-in ends.
(Rule 4-10.1.b, 6-3.6 and 10-2.5.a)
A.R. 67. A player who has committed a fifth foul [any combination of personal fouls and CLASS A technical fouls] continues to play because the scorers have failed to notify the officials.
RULING: As soon as the scorers discover the mistake, they should sound the game-clock horn as soon as the ball is in control of the offending team or is dead. The disqualified player shall be removed immediately. Any points that may have been scored while such a player was illegally in the game shall count.
(Rule 4-12.1, 2-9.4 and 2-9.14 )
A.R. 68. B1 commits a fifth foul (any combination of personal and CLASS A technical fouls), which results in two free throws for A1. The official scorer and official timer fail to notify any of the game officials that a fifth foul has been committed. When the scorers realize the mistake, they inform the official timer to sound the game-clock horn. The official timer sounds the device as the first free throw is made or missed. The referee asks the scorers’ table personnel to explain the problem. The referee is advised that B1 has committed five fouls, after which the referee advises the coach and player of Team B that B1 has five fouls. The coach replaces B1.
RULING: Play shall be resumed with the second free throw by A1. There is no additional penalty assessed for the official scorer’s and timer’s mistake in failing to notify the officials of B1’s fifth foul.
(Rule 4-12.3, 2-9.14 and 2-9.4)
A.R. 69. A5 is fouled during an unsuccessful try for goal. As A5 goes to the free-throw line, A5 is assessed an unsportsmanlike technical foul, which is A5’s fifth and disqualifying foul. The scorer:
- Informs the official that A5 has been disqualified; or
- Does not inform the official that A5 has been disqualified until after A5 attempts the free throws.
RULING 1: A Team B player or team member shall attempt the free throws for the technical foul assessed to A5. Play is resumed at the point of interruption and the substitute for A5 would then attempt the free throws awarded when A5 was fouled in the act of shooting.
2: Since A5 and A5’s coach were not notified of the disqualification until after A5’s free throws, the result of A5’s free throws shall stand.
(Rule 4-12.4, 8-3.2, 2-9.4 and 4-27.1.e)
A.R. 70. In the frontcourt of Team A (the backcourt of Team B), A1 passes the ball to A2. B1, in an attempt to secure the ball, deflects it down the playing court toward B’s basket. The ball bounces several times before B1 can recover it in B’s front court. B1 dribbles to B’s basket and scores.
RULING: Legal. The deflection of the ball by B1 shall not be considered part of the dribble. B1 does not have control of the ball until securing it after deflecting it.
(Rule 4-13.1)
A.R. 71. A1, after:
- Receiving a pass; or
- Ending his dribble, passes the ball to A2. Before receiving the pass, A2 leaves the area on a cut to the basket. A1 goes to the area vacated by A2 and recovers the ball.
RULING: In order for a pass to occur, the thrown ball must be touched by another player. This did not occur in (1) or (2).
1: A1’s attempted pass was the start of his dribble. When he recovered the ball and started another dribble, he would have committed a violation. (Had A1, after releasing the pass, which was the start of the dribble, not recovered the ball but rather continued to dribble, it would not have been a violation.)
2: A1 had previously ended a dribble before his attempted pass to A2. A1’s release of the ball on his attempted pass to A2 was the start of a second dribble. A1 committed a violation after he touched the ball.
(Rule 4-13.2 and 9-7.1.c)
A.R. 72. A1 is dribbling the ball when:
- A1 bats the ball over the head of an opponent, runs around the opponent, and before the ball touches the playing court he bats the ball again and then continues to dribble; or
- A1 fumbles the ball (the ball slips from the player’s grasp) and the ball rolls out of reach so that A1 must run to recover it.
RULING 1: Violation, because the ball is touched twice during a dribble, before the ball touches the playing court.
2: It is illegal to continue to dribble, but A1 may recover the ball.
(Rule 4-13.3, 4-16.2 and 9-7.1.c)
A.R. 73. A1, while advancing the ball by dribbling, manages to keep a hand in contact with the ball until it reaches its maximum height. A1 maintains such control as the ball descends, pushing it to the playing court at the last moment; however, after six or seven bounces, A1’s hands are in contact with the ball and the palm of the hand on this particular dribble is skyward.
RULING: It is a violation when the ball has come to rest on the hand while the palm and the fingers are facing upward and a player then continues to dribble, because the dribble has ended when the ball came to rest on the palm when it faced upward.
(Rule 4-13.4.a)
A.R. 74. Is a player considered to be dribbling while touching the ball during a jump, when a pass rebounds from the player’s hand, when the player fumbles or when the player tips a rebound or pass away from other players who are attempting to get it?
RULING: No. The player is not in control under these conditions and therefore is not dribbling.
(Rule 4-13 and 4-9.1)
A.R. 75. A1 dribbles and comes to a stop, after which A1 throws the ball:
- Against the opponent’s backboard and catches the rebound; or
- Against the official, immediately recovering the ball and dribbling again.
RULING: A1 has committed a violation in both (1) and (2). Throwing the ball against an opponent’s backboard or an official constitutes another dribble, provided that A1 is first to touch the ball after it strikes the official or the backboard.
(Rule 4-13.4.a and 9-7.1)
A.R. 76. After ending a dribble, A1 leaves the playing court to attempt a try
for goal. While airborne, A1 fumbles the ball and:
1. Recovers the fumble while airborne, returns to the floor and dribbles the ball; or
2. Recovers the fumble after returning to the floor and then dribbles the ball.
RULING: It is a violation in both (1) and (2), A1 is permitted to recover the ball but after recovering the ball is not allowed to start another dribble. However, if a fumble is touched by another player and then recovered by A1, while airborne or after a return to the floor, A1 is allowed to start another dribble. If A1 had not previously dribbled the ball, and while airborne fumbled and recovered the ball (while airborne or after a return to the floor), he is permitted to start a dribble.
(Rule 4-13.4.a, 4-16.2 and 9-7.1.c)
A.R. 77. A1 ends the dribble, passes the ball to A2 and then charges into B2:
- While the ball is in the air; or
- After A2 has control.
RULING: The foul on A1 in both (1) and (2) is not a player-control foul since A1 was not holding or dribbling the ball and was not an airborne shooter in either situation. However, in both cases, A1 has committed a team control foul.
When the official is in doubt as to whether the foul occurred before or after the ball was released on the pass, the foul should not be ruled a player-control foul but shall be ruled a team control foul.
(Rule 4-9.2.a and 4-15.2.a.1 and .2)
A.R. 78. A3 and B3 commit a double personal foul, neither of which is a
flagrant foul, while:
1. A1’s pass is in flight; or
2. A1’s try is in flight.
RULING: Charge the fouls to A3 and B3.
1: The ball shall be awarded to Team A, the team in control, at a designated spot nearest to where the ball was last in contact with a player or the playing court with no reset of the shot clock.
2: When the try is successful, Team B, the team not credited with the score, shall be awarded the ball anywhere along the end line. When the try is unsuccessful and since there is no team control, play shall be resumed by using the alternating-possession procedure. The throw-in shall be awarded at a designated spot nearest to where the ball became dead, as a result of the unsuccessful try, with a reset of the shot clock.
(Rule 4-9.2.b, 4-9.4.c, 4-27.1.d, and 7-4.9 and .11)
A.R. 79. A1 is dribbling the ball in the frontcourt when the ball momentarily
gets away from him. While the dribble is interrupted:
1. A1 pushes B2 while trying to retrieve the ball;
2. A2 is in the lane for four seconds; or
3. A1 calls a timeout.
RULING 1: Team-control foul on A1.
2: Three-second violation on A2.
3: A timeout shall not be acknowledged during an interrupted dribble.
(Rule 4-9.2.d, 4-13.6.b, 9-9.2 and 4-13.5)
A.R. 80. B1 commits a common foul against A1 before the bonus is in effect for either team. The ball is awarded to Team A at a designated spot nearest to where the foul occurred. During the throw-in but before the clock is started, A2 fouls B2. Team B is in the bonus.
RULING: A2’s foul is a team-control foul since it occurred during the throw-in. The foul shall be charged to A2 and the ball shall be awarded to Team B at a designated spot nearest to where the foul occurred.
(Rule 4-15.2.a.2 and 7-3.1.f)
A.R. 81. B1 deflects the ball away from A1 while:
1. A1 is dribbling the ball; or
2. A1 is passing the ball to A2.
A1, in an attempt to recover the ball, fouls B1.
RULING: In (1) and (2), A1 has committed a team control foul. The foul shall be charged to A1, and the ball shall be awarded to Team B at a designated spot nearest to where A1’s foul was committed.
(Rule 4-15.2.a.2, 4-9.2.a and .b, and 7-3.1.f )
A.R. 82. After a field goal by B1, Team A leads Team B, 61-60. A1 has the ball for a throw-in with four seconds remaining in the game. While A1 is holding the ball, B2 crosses the boundary line and contacts A1.
RULING: A flagrant 1 personal foul shall be charged to B2. The time remaining to play is not a factor.
(Rule 4-15.2.c.5 and 10-1 Penalty d[2])
A.R. 83. Before a free throw by A1 is in flight, A2 pushes B2, then A3 steps
into the free-throw lane too soon. The bonus is in effect for both teams.
RULING: The foul by A2, which created a false double foul, is a team-control foul and causes the ball to become dead immediately. Consequently, A3’s violation shall be ignored. A1 shall attempt the free throw(s) with no players on the lane and when the last try is successful, Team B shall have the privilege to run the endline. When the last try is unsuccessful, play shall be resumed by awarding Team B the ball for a throw-in at a designated spot closest to where the team- control foul occurred.
(Rule 4-15.4 and 8-8.1)
A.R. 84. A1 is entitled to a one-and-one free throw. Before the ball is handed
to A1, Team A’s coach is assessed a CLASS A technical foul.
RULING: The technical foul creates a false double foul. Team B shall be awarded two free throws because of the technical foul on Coach A. After Team B shoots the free throws for the technical fouls, A1 shall attempt the one-and-one since that was the point of interruption.
(Rule 4-15.4 and 8-8.2)
A.R. 85. B1 maneuvers to a position in front of post player A1 to prevent A1 from receiving the ball. A pass is made over the head and out of reach of B1. Post player A1 moves toward the basket to catch the pass and attempt a try for goal. As the pass is made, B2 moves into the path of A1, in a guarding position.
RULING: B2 has switched to guard a player who does not have the ball. Therefore, B2 must give A1 enough time and distance (not more than two strides) to avoid contact to be in a legal guarding position. When A1 has control of the ball (provided that A1 is not in the air at the time), time and distance shall be irrelevant.
(Rule 4-17.4 and 4-17.5)
A.R. 86. B1 slips to the floor in the free-throw lane. A1 (with his back to B1, who is prone) receives a pass, turns and, in his attempt to drive to the basket, trips and falls over B1.
RULING: Foul on B1, who is not in a legal guarding position.
Rule 4-17.4.a
A.R. 87. B1 takes a spot on the playing court before A1 jumps to catch a
pass.
1. A1 returns to the playing court and lands on B1; or
2. B1 moves to a new spot while A1 is airborne. A1 comes to the floor on one foot and then charges into B1.
RULING: In both (1) and (2), the foul shall be on A1. In (1), B1 is entitled to that spot on the floor provided he gets there legally before the offensive player becomes airborne. However, in (2), when A1 possesses the ball then lands on the floor, no time and distance is required.
(Rule 4-17.4.c and .d, 4-17.3 and Exception 4-17.7)
A.R. 88. A1 runs toward Team A’s goal and looks back to receive a fast-break outlet pass. B1 takes a position in the path of A1 while A1 is 10 feet away from B1.
- A1 runs into B1 before receiving the ball; or
- A1 receives the ball and, before taking a step, contacts B1.
RULING: In both (1) and (2), A1 shall be held responsible for contact. B1 took a position in the path of A1 that provided A1 enough time and distance to avoid contact. While without the ball, A1 was provided the required time and distance to avoid contact with B1. However, when A1 received the ball, no time and distance were required by the defender.
(Rule 4-17.5.b and 4-17.4.c; Exception 4-17.7)
A.R. 89. A1 tries a pump fake and defender B1, who is in legal guarding
position:
1. Jumps forward into the air and A1 then jumps forward and makes contact with B1 in the air; or
2. Jumps straight up in the air and A1 then jumps forward and makes contact with B1 in the air.
RULING 1: Even though B1 established legal guarding position on the floor, his jump forward and toward A1 is not a legal attempt to maintain legal guarding position so that any non-incidental contact with A1 is a personal foul on B1. However, if B1’s jump forward is in a direction that he clearly would not have made contact with the shooter, and the shooter moves sideways to cause the contact, B1 has not committed a personal foul.
(Rule 4-17.6.e)
2: B1 has again established initial legal guarding position and his jump into the air is a legal attempt to maintain legal guarding position as long as the jump is within B1’s own vertical plane. Any subsequent contact by A1 jumping forward and into B1 is either a personal foul on A1 or incidental contact.
(Rule 4-17.6.e)
A.R. 90. A1 is in the act of shooting and B1 attempts to defend the try. The official, in anticipation of a foul that was not committed, inadvertently blows his whistle:
- Before the release of the ball; or
- After the try for goal was released hit the ring, but was unsuccessful.
RULING 1: Since A1 did not release the ball and was in control of the ball when the inadvertent whistle was blown, Team A shall be awarded the ball at a designated spot nearest to where the dead ball occurred with no reset of the shot clock.
2: The inadvertent whistle occurred when there was no team control. When the try was unsuccessful, the ball is awarded to the team entitled to the alternating-possession arrow at a spot nearest to where the try was unsuccessful and the shot clock shall be reset.
When the try for goal was successful, the inadvertent whistle shall be ignored and the team not credited with the score shall be awarded the ball at the end line with that team being entitled to run the end line. (Rule 4-20, 4-27.1.a, 2-11.6.g, 2-11.7.g, and 7-5.1.a and .d)
A.R. 91. After A1’s try is released and is in flight, an official inadvertently blows the whistle and then the shot-clock horn sounds. How is play resumed when the shot:
- Is successful;
- Does not strike the ring or flange; or
- Strikes the ring or flange but does not enter the basket?
RULING 1: Count the goal. Ignore the inadvertent whistle, which was blown when there was no team control, and the sounding of the shot-clock horn. The team not credited with the score shall be allowed to run the end line.
(Rule 4-20, 7-4.17 and 7-4.6)
2: Violation. Ignore the inadvertent whistle and resume play by awarding the ball to Team B at the spot nearest to where the shot- clock violation occurred. The violation takes precedence over the inadvertent whistle.
(Rule 4-20, 9-11.4 and 7-4.1)
3: Play shall be resumed by the alternating-possession procedure and the shot clock shall be reset.
(Rule 4-20, 4-27.1.a, 7-4.17, 6-4.1.g and 2-11.6.g)
A.R. 92. An official is in the frontcourt when he runs into a pass thrown by A1 from Team A’s backcourt. After touching the official, the ball:
- Goes out of bounds; or
- Rebounds to the backcourt, where it is recovered by A3.
RULING: Touching the official shall be the same as touching the floor where the official is standing.
1: The ball shall be awarded to Team B for a throw-in at a designated spot nearest to where the out-of-bounds violation occurred.
2: Since A1 was the last player to touch the ball before it returned to the backcourt, A1 caused it to go there. Back-court violation. Award a throw-in to Team B at a designated spot nearest to where the violation occurred.
(Rule 4-23.3, 9-2 and 7-3.1.a)
A.R. 93. Team A is entitled to the ball for a throw-in after a timeout and after having previously received a team warning for not being ready to resume play following a timeout. The referee blows the whistle indicating that the timeout has ended and Team A is not ready to resume play immediately.
RULING: The official should assess the Team A coach a Class B technical foul and resume play at the point of interruption. (Rule 4-31.2 and 4-27.1.e).
A.R. 94. Team A is entitled to the ball for a throw-in after a timeout and after having previously received a team warning for not being ready to resume play following a timeout. The official timer properly sounds a warning signal 15 seconds before the charged timeout expires and then a final signal when the timeout ends. The official administering the throw-in sounds the whistle to alert the players that the game shall resume. However, neither team has left its huddle on the sideline.
RULING: The official shall assess the Team A coach a Class B technical foul and issue Team B an official warning for not being ready to resume play immediately following the end of a timeout.
(Rule 4-31.2.j, 4-27.1.e and 10-4.2.g)
A.R. 95. A1 makes a cut without the ball and beats defender B1. A2 throws an alley-oop pass to A1. A1 goes airborne to receive the alley-oop pass and crashes into the torso of B2 who had established initial guarding position inside the restricted area. The crash occurs:
1. Before A1 gains possession of the ball; or 2. After A1 gains possession of the ball.
RULING 1: Since A1 did not have control of the ball when the contact with B2 occurred, the secondary defender/restricted area rules do not apply. It is a charging/team control foul when B2 has given A1 enough time and distance for A1 to avoid contact and has established this position before A1 went airborne. It is a blocking foul when B2 fails to give sufficient time and distance for A1 to avoid contact or fails to establish this position before A1 goes airborne.
(Rule 4-35.1, 4-17.5, 4-9.2.b and 10-1.14.)
A.R. 96. As A2 makes a drive to the basket, B1, a secondary defender, establishes initial guarding position within the restricted area. Contact occurs. One official calls a charge while another official calls a block.
RULING: B1 was a secondary defender who illegally established initial guarding position within the restricted area. Consequently, the blocking call against B1 is the correct call.
(Rule 4-35 and 10-1.14)
A.R. 97. Team B is in a zone defense. A1, who is located on the perimeter of Team B’s zone, passes the ball to A2. A1 then cuts behind B1, who is the defender at the top of the zone, and receives a pass from A2 while just outside the restricted area. After receiving the pass, A1 then crashes into the torso of defender B2 who has established initial guarding position inside the restricted area. The Lead official calls a blocking foul on B2.
RULING: The official is correct. B2 is a secondary defender because A1 is deemed to have beaten B1 when he cut behind B1 on the perimeter of the zone defense. As a secondary defender, B2 may not establish an initial legal guarding position in the restricted area for the purpose of drawing a player control/charging foul when defending a player who is in control of the ball or has released the ball on a pass or try.
(Rule 4-35.1, 4-30 and 10-1.14)
A.R. 98. Low-post player A5 spins and gets by defender B5. B4 comes from the weak side and establishes initial guarding position within the restricted area. A5 continues to move to the basket and:
- While airborne and shooting the ball, leans into and makes contact with B4; or
- Stops and, while in control of the ball, leans into and contacts B4.
RULING 1: B4 is a secondary defender and illegally established initial guarding position within the restricted area to stop A5’s try for goal. A blocking foul shall be assessed to B4.
2: WhenA5stoppedandthetryforgoalwasdiscontinued,B4wasno longer a secondary defender. A player control foul shall be assessed to A5.
(Rule 4-35.2 and 10-1.14)
A.R. 99. Low post player A5 in possession of the ball is defended initially by B5. Player B4 comes from the weak side to double team and establishes initial guarding position (1) inside the restricted area or (2) outside the restricted area. A5 makes a move to the basket and contacts stationary B4 in the torso.
RULING: In (1), B4 is a secondary defender and may not establish initial legal guarding position inside the restricted area. When illegal contact occurs, a blocking foul should be assessed against B4.
In (2), B4 is a secondary defender but established initial legal guarding position outside the restricted area. When illegal contact occurs, a player control foul should be assessed to A5.
(Rule 4-35.2, 4-30 and 10-1.14)
A.R. 100. Player A1 attempts a shot, which bounces off the rim and is
rebounded by A2.
1. Player A2 who is in the lane area immediately attempts a put back and crashes into the torso of B2, who is positioned within the restricted area; or
2. Player A2, who is located on the wing just inside the three point line, gains possession of a long rebound and immediately drives to the basket with no defender. Player A2 crashes into the torso of B2 who is located within the restricted area.
RULING: (1.) When A2 rebounds the ball and immediately makes a move to the basket, there is no secondary defender and the restricted area rule is not in effect. (2.) When B2 has established and maintained a legal guarding position and illegal contact occurs it is player control/ charging foul on A2.
(Rule 4-35.3, 4-30 and 10-1.14)
A.R. 101. Team A is on a 3 on 2 or a 2 on 3 fast break, and any player on Team B takes an initial guarding position (1) within the restricted area with two feet on the floor and facing the opponent, or (2) outside the restricted area with two feet on the floor and facing the opponent, in an attempt to draw a player control/charging foul. A2, after receiving a pass, crashes into the torso of the Team B player, and the official calls a player control/ charging foul.
RULING 1: The official is incorrect. In any outnumbering fast break situation, all Team B players are initially secondary defenders. The Team B player may not establish initial legal guarding position inside the restricted area, and the illegal contact by B is a blocking foul.
2: The official is correct. Even though the Team B player is initially a secondary defender, he did not establish initial guarding position inside the restricted area. When illegal contact occurs, it shall be a player control/charging foul.
(Rule 4-35.4, 4-30 and 10-1.14)
A.R. 102. A1 becomes confused and shoots the ball at the wrong basket. A1 is fouled while trying to shoot and the ball goes in the basket. Is this a goal? If A1 misses, should A1 be granted two free throws for the foul by the Team B player?
RULING: No goal. The ball became dead when the foul occurred. When a player shoots at the opponent’s basket, it is not a try. When Team A is in the bonus when the Team B player fouls A1, A1 shall be awarded a one-and-one. When Team A is not in the bonus, the ball shall be awarded to Team A at a designated spot.
(Rule 5-1.1, 6-5.1.f, 10-1 Penalty c and a[1])
A.R. 103. A ball passed from behind the three-point line:
- Enters the basket from above and passes through;
- Is deflected and enters the basket from above and passes through; or
- Strikes the side of the ring or the flange.
RULING 1: A three-point goal shall be counted.
2: When there is no possibility of the ball entering the basket from above and the deflection causes the goal to be successful, it shall be a two-point goal. However, when a ball is passed in the direction of the basket with the possibility of entering the basket from above and the deflection does not influence its success, a three-point goal shall be counted.
3: The ball shall remain live. In each case, when a passed ball hits the ring and does not enter the basket, there is no reset of the shot clock.
(Rule 5-1.1, 5-1.2.a, 5-1.3 and .4, 4-24 and 2-11.6.d)
A.R. 104. A1’s throw (pass) from behind the three-point line is deflected
while in flight by:
1. B1; or
2. A2, both of whom are located inside the three-point line.
RULING 1: When a ball thrown (passed) in the direction of the basket from behind the three-point line with the possibility of entering the basket from above is deflected by a defender, a three-point goal shall be counted. However, if there is no possibility of the ball entering the basket from above and the deflection caused the goal to be successful, a two-point goal shall be counted.
2: When a thrown (passed) ball is deflected by a teammate and the goal is successful, two points shall be awarded.
When a passed ball hits the ring and does not enter the basket, there is no reset of the shot clock.
(Rule 5-1.1, 5-1.2.a and 5-1.3 and .4)
A.R. 105. A1 intercepts a pass and dribbles toward A’s basket for a break- away layup. Near A’s free-throw line, A1 legally stops and ends his dribble. A1 throws the ball against A’s backboard and follows the throw. While airborne, A1 rebounds the ball off the backboard and dunks.
RULING: The play shall be legal since the backboard is located in A1’s frontcourt, which A1 is entitled to use.
(Rule 5-1.1 and .6, and 9-12.1)
A.R. 106. A pass or a try for field goal by A1 comes down several feet in front of the basket. The ball strikes the playing court without touching any player and bounces into the basket.
RULING: Two points shall be counted for Team A when not complicated by the expiration of time in a period or by a foul occurring while the ball is in flight. The try for field goal by A1 ends when the ball touches the playing court, but it is customary to credit the two points to A1. A field goal can sometimes be scored when it is not the result of a try. When the ball is in flight as a result of contacting the playing court without touching any player and time expires or a foul occurs, no points shall be scored. Neither the expiration of time nor a foul shall cause the ball to become dead immediately during a try for a field goal. During a pass, the ball shall become dead as a result of the foul or expiration of time.
(Rule 5-1.2 and 6-6.1)
A.R. 107. A2 receives the tip by A1 on the jump ball to start an extra period. A2 is confused and dribbles toward the basket that Team A had during the first half and:
- Dunks into Team B’s basket; or
- Attempts a three-point try, which is successful, at Team B’s basket.
RULING: In both (1) and (2), the goal shall be legal. In both cases, two points shall be awarded to Team B. The ball shall be awarded to Team A out of bounds at the basket of Team B and Team A may put the ball in play from anywhere behind the endline as after any score by Team B (earned or awarded).
(Rule 5-1.4.a and 7-4.6.a)
A.R. 108. As the hand of A1 contacts the ball to tap it toward the basket, B1
fouls A1. The ball is not airborne form the hand of A1.
RULING: The penalty for a foul on a tap is the same as the penalty for a foul on a try. When the tap is successful, one free throw shall be awarded. When the tap is unsuccessful, two free throws shall be awarded.
(Rule 5-1.8 and 10-1 Penalty b[1] and d[1])
A.R. 109. A1 is in possession of the ball and in the act of shooting when:
- B2 fouls A2 before the release of the ball; or
- A2 fouls B2 before the release of the ball.
RULING 1: Assess B2 with the foul committed against A2. A1’s try for goal shall count when successful. Administer the bonus free throw or award the ball to Team A at a designated spot nearest to where the foul occurred.
2: Assess A2 with the foul committed against B2. A1’s try for field goal shall not count when successful, since the ball became dead before A1’s release. Award the ball to Team B at a designated spot nearest to where the foul occurred.
(Rule 5-1.10, 10-1 Penalty a[1] and c, and 6-5.1.f )
A.R. 110. With two-tenths of a second (.2) remaining in a period on the game clock, Team A is awarded a throw-in at the division line. A1 pases the ball to A2 who: 1. catches the ball with both hands while in the air and throws the ball into his basket; or 2. does not catch the ball but taps it into the basket. In both (1) and (2), the ball is in the air on the way to the basket when the game-ending horn sounds.
RULING 1: Illegal. When the game clock displays three-tenths of a second (.3) or less and play is to be resumed by a throw-in or a free- throw, a player may not gain possession of the ball and try for goal. When this situation occurs, the offiical shall blow his whistle and the period is over unless a flagrant 1 or 2 personal foul was committee on the play. Whether the try for goal was successfully attempted before the expiration of time is inconsequential.
2: Legal. When the player does not possess (catch) the ball but taps it into the basket before the period-ending horn sounds, the offiical shall use replay equipment, videotape or television monitoring, when available and located at courtside, to ascertain whether the tap (try) that will determine the outcome of the game was released before a reading of zeroes on the game clock.
(Rule 5-1.18 and 11-3.1)
A.R. 111. A1 is dribbling the ball and attempts to turn the corner at the top of the key to drive down the lane. B1 fouls A1 as A1 picks up his dribble. A1 then steps with his right foot and then pushes off with his left foot before beginning to raise his arm(s) or hand(s) to release the ball for a layup. The try is successful.
RULING: The foul occurred before the act of shooting began. Therefore, the goal should not count. Charge B1 with a personal foul and shoot appropriate free throws if Team A is in the bonus.
The language of 5-1.10, “The try starts when the player begins the motion that normally precedes the release of the ball,” refers to the hand(s) or arm(s) in preparing to release the ball on a try for goal. Examples of the act of shooting motion include raising the ball with the hand(s) and or arm(s) to shoot a layup or jump shot or the downward motion of the hand(s) or arm(s) in completing a dunk or alley-oop play. This act of shooting motion does not include picking up the dribble, catching (gathering) the ball, or advancing on the court with one or both feet.
(Rule 5-1.10 and 4-8.1)
A.R. 112. During a try for goal but after A1 returns o the floor, B1 commits
a holding foul. The foul occurs before the bonus. The attempt is: 1. Successful; or
2. Unsuccessful.
RULING: A personal foul shall be charged to B1 in both (1) and (2) but no free throw shall be awarded to A1 in either case since A1 is not an airborne shooter and Team A is not in the bonus. In both (1) and (2), the ball shall be awarded to Team A at a designated spot nearest to where the foul occurred.
(Rule 5-1.14, 10-1 Penalty a[1] and 7-4.4)
A.R. 113. While the ball is in flight during a try for a field goal, A1 charges
into B1. After this, there is a basket-interference violation by:
1. B2; or
2. A2.
RULING 1 and 2: The charging foul by A1 causes the ball to become dead and no points may be scored on A1’s try. B2’s basket interference is ignored. (Rule 5-1.15)
A.R. 114. In a game without a courtside monitor available, and with the score tied near the expiration of time in the second half:
- Shooter A1 is fouled in the act of shooting, but time expires before the release of the ball and the try is successful;
- Shooter A1 releases the ball, time expires, A1 is fouled while the ball is in flight and the try is unsuccessful; or
- Shooter A1 is fouled after time has expired and before the ball was in flight.
RULING 1: When the official determines that the foul occurred before the sounding of the game-clock horn, and signals for the clock to stop and the timer fails to stop the clock, a timing mistake occurred and the official shall put time back on the clock to when the official has definitive knowledge as to the time on the clock when the foul was called. The goal shall count. In this case, A1 is awarded one free throw. However, when the official does not have definitive knowledge as to the time on the game clock when the foul was called and the timer does not stop the clock, of time that the timer is unable to stop the clock, this is not a timer’s mistake and time should not be placed back on the game clock. When the official determines that the foul occurred before the sounding of the game-clock horn, the basket shall not count and A1 is awarded two free throws. When A1 makes the first shot, the game is over. When both free throws are unsuccessful, the game continues with an extra period(s).
On a foul that occurs near the expiration of time, officials must determine that the clock did not stop when the whistle sounded either because a timing mistake occurred or because it was so near the expiration of time that the timer is unable to stop the clock. In the first case, time is put back on the game clock and the game has not ended. In the second case, time is not placed back on the clock and the game has ended. When both free throws are unsuccessful, the game continues with an extra period(s).
2: Since the try was released before the expiration of time and since the foul occurred after time expired but while the ball was in flight and A1 was an airborne shooter, A1 shall attempt two free throws. When one free throw is successful, the game is over. When both free throws are unsuccessful, the game continues with an extra period(s).
3: When the foul occurs after the second half (or any period) has clearly ended, the foul shall be ignored unless the foul was a flagrant 2 or contact dead ball technical. When the foul was a flagrant 2 or contact dead ball technical, the offended team shall be awarded two free throws to begin the extra period and play shall be resumed at the point of interruption, which would be the jump ball to start the extra period, unless the foul was a flagrant 2 or contact dead ball technical foul. In such cases, the extra period shall begin with the ball awarded to the offended team at the division line on either side of the playing court.
For games with a courtside monitor available, see A.R. 268.
(Rule 5-7.3.c.1, 5-7.6 and 6-6.2)
A.R. 115. As time for the first period expires and while the ball is in flight during a field-goal try by A1, B2 commits a flagrant 1 personal foul against A2. A2 is awarded two free throws with no time on the game clock and no players occupying the marked lane spaces. After the ball has become dead and after the last free throw by A2, A3 commits a flagrant 2 technical foul against B3.
RULING: A3 shall be ejected. The foul by A3 was committed after the first period has ended so the second period shall begin with the free throws for this foul followed by a throw-in by Team B at the division line. This foul shall count toward the team foul count for the second period. The possession arrow is not reversed.
(Rule 5-7.6)
A.R. 116. Playing time has expired with the score tied, and: 1. A1 is assessed with a CLASS A technical foul;
- A1 is assessed with a flagrant 2 technical foul; or
- A1 is assessed with a contact dead ball technical foul.
RULING 1: The extra period shall start by awarding a player from Team B two free throws for the CLASS A technical foul that was assessed to A1. Play shall resume at the point of interruption, which would be a jump ball.
2: A1 shall be ejected and the extra period shall start by awarding a player from Team B two free throws for the flagrant 2 technical foul that was assessed to A1. Play shall resume with a throw-in for Team B at the division line on either side of the court. The alternating-possession arrow shall be set towards Team A’s basket when the ball is placed at the disposal of Team B for the throw-in.
3: The extra period shall start by awarding a player from Team B two free throws for the contact dead ball technical foul that was assessed to A1. Play shall resume with a throw-in for Team B at the division line on either side of the court. The alternating-possession arrow shall be set towards Team A’s basket when the ball is placed at the disposal of Team B for the throw-in.
These fouls shall count toward the team foul count, disqualification and ejection.
(Rule 5-7.6)
