FIBA OFFICIAL BASKETBALL

RULES
2010 CHANGES
AND
OFFICIAL INTERPRETATIONS
ART.2.1 New playing court.

Diagram 1
ART. 2 Court

ART.2.4.2 The centre line shall be marked

parallel to the endlines from the mid-points
of the sidelines. It shall extend fifteen (15)
cm beyond each sideline.

CENTRE line is not part of front court.

ART.2.4.4 3 point line is now 6.75m. The team's
three-point field goal area (Diagram 1 and Diagram 3)
shall be the entire floor area of the playing court, except
for the area near the opponents' basket,
limited by and including:

 Two (2) parallel lines extending from and

perpendicular to the endline, with the
outer edge 0.90 m from the inner edge of the sidelines.

 An arc of radius 6.75 m measured from the point on

the floor beneath the exact centre of the opponents'
basket to the outer edge of the arc. The distance of
the point on the floor from the inner edge of the mid-
point of the endline is 1.575 m. The arc is joined to the
parallel lines.

The three-point line is not part of the three-point

field goal area.
2-Point/ 3-Point Field Goal Area

Diagram 3
ART.2.4.6 New throw-in lines in front court

The two (2) small lines of 15 cm in length shall be

marked outside the playing court at the sideline
opposite the scorer’s table, with the outer edge at the
distance of 8.325 m from the inside edge of the nearest
endlines.

15 cm
ART.2.4.7 No-charge semi-circle areas

The no-charge semi-circle lines shall be

marked on the playing court, limited by:

 A semi-circle with the radius of 1.25 m

measured from the point on the floor beneath
the exact centre of the basket to the inner
edge of the semi-circle. The semi-circle is
joined to:

 Two (2) parallel lines perpendicular to

the endline, the inner edge 1.25 m from the
point on the floor beneath the exact centre of
the basket, 0.375 m in length and ending
1.20 m from the inner edge of the endline.
The no-charge semi- 2.4.3 Restricted Area
circle areas are
completed by imaginary 1.8 m

lines joining the ends of

the parallel lines directly
below the front edges of
0.85 m

5.8m 0.85 m
the backboards. 0.4 m
1.25 m
0.85 m
0.375
The no-charge semi- 0.1 m
m
1.75m
1.20 m
circle lines are not
part of the no-charge 4.9 m
semi-circle areas. Diagram 2
ART.4.3.1 Uniforms
 Socks of the same dominant colour for
all players of the team.

ART.4.4.2 Other equipment

• The following are permitted:
- Compression sleeves of the same
dominant colour as the shirts,

- Compression stockings of the same

dominant colour as the shorts. If for the
upper leg it must end above the knee, if for
the lower leg it must end below the knee.

- Non-coloured transparent mouth guard

- Non- coloured taping of arms, legs, etc.

ART.7.3 Coaches. Duties and Powers.

The coaches, assistant coaches, team

members and team followers are the only
persons permitted to sit on the team bench
and to remain within their team bench
area.
INTERPRETATION:

ART. 7 COACHES: DUTIES AND POWERS

Statement 2
At least ten (10) minutes before the game is
scheduled to begin each coach shall indicate the
five (5) players who are to start the game. Before
the game starts the scorer shall check if there is
an error regarding these five (5) players and, if so,
he shall notify the nearest official as soon as
possible. If this is discovered before the start of
the game the starting five (5) players shall be
corrected. If this is discovered after the start of the
game it shall be ignored.
Example:
It is discovered that one (1) of the players
on the playing court is not one (1) of the
confirmed starting five (5) players. This
happens:

(a) Before the start of the game.

(b) After the start of the game.

Interpretation:
(a) The player shall be replaced without
any sanction by one (1) of the five (5)
players who were to start the game.
(b) The error is ignored and the game
continues.
ART.8 Game Regulations

8.6 Interval of Play

An interval of play ends:

• At the beginning of the first period when

the ball leaves the hand (s) of the referee on
the jump ball.

• At the beginning of all other periods when

the ball is at the disposal of the player
taking the throw-in.
ART. 9 Beginning and end of a
period or game

9.1 The first period begins when the ball

leaves the hand (s) of the referee on the
jump ball.

9.2 All other periods begin when the ball

is at the disposal of the player taking the
throw-in.
INTERPRETATION:

ART. 12 JUMP BALL AND ALTERNATING

POSSESSION

Statement 1
The team that does not obtain control of a
live ball on the playing court after 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 2:
The referee tosses the ball for the opening
jump ball. Immediately after the ball is
legally tapped by jumper A4 and the ball:
(a) Goes directly out-of-bounds.
(b) Is caught by A4 before it has touched
one of the non-jumpers or the floor.

Interpretation:
In both cases Team B is awarded a throw-in
as the result of the A4 violation. After the
throw-in the Team that does not gain control
of the live ball on the playing court will be
entitled to the first alternating possession at
the place nearest to where the next jump
ball situation occurs.
Statement 2
Whenever a live ball lodges between the
ring and the backboard, unless between
free throws, it is a jump ball situation
resulting in an alternating possession
throw-in. As this does not result in a
rebound situation, it is not considered as
having the same influence on the game as
when the ball simply touches the ring.
Therefore if the team that was in control
of the ball before it lodged between the ring
and the backboard is entitled to the throw-
in it shall have only the remaining time
on the twenty-four (24) second clock
as in any other jump ball situation.
Example 1:
On a shot for a field goal by A4 the ball lodges between
the ring and the backboard. Team A is entitled to a throw-
in under the alternating possession procedure.
Interpretation:
After the throw-in Team A has only the remaining time
left on the twenty-four (24) second clock.

Example 2:
On a shot for a field goal by A4 the twenty-four (24)
second clock expires, followed by the ball lodging between
the ring and the backboard. Team A is entitled to a throw-
in under the alternating possession procedure.
Interpretation:
As team A has no remaining time left on the twenty-
four (24) second clock a twenty-four (24) second
violation has occurred. Team B is entitled to a throw-in.
ART.16 Goal: When made and its value.

16.2.5 The game clock must indicate

0:00.3 (three tenth of a second) or more
for a player to secure his possession of the
ball on a rebound or throw-in in order to
attempt a field goal. If the game clock
indicates 0:00.2 or 0:00.1 the only type of
a field goal to be secured is by tapping or
directly dunking the ball.
INTERPRETATION:

ART. 16 GOAL: WHEN MADE AND ITS VALUE

Statement
In a throw-in situation or on a rebound after the last or
only free throw, a period of time will always pass from
the moment the inbounds player touches the ball until
that player releases the ball on a shot. This is
particularly important to take into consideration near
the end of a period. There must be a minimum
amount of time available for such a shot before time
expires. If 0:00.3 second is displayed on the game
clock, it is the duty of the official(s) to determine if the
shooter released the ball before the game clock signal
sounds for the end of the period. If, however, 0:00.2
or 0:00.1 second is displayed on the game clock, the
only type of a valid field goal made by an airborne
player is by tapping or directly dunking the ball.
Example:
Team A is awarded a throw in with:
(a) 0:00.3
(b) 0:00.2 or 0:00.1 displayed on the game clock.

Interpretation:
In (a), if a shot for a field goal is attempted and the game
clock signal sounds for the end of the period during the
attempt, it is the responsibility of the officials to determine
if the ball was released before the game clock signal has
sounded for the end of the period.

In (b), the basket can be awarded only if the ball while in

the air on the throw-in pass is tapped to the basket or
directly dunked.
ART. 17 Throw in

Procedure

17.2.4 During the last two (2) minutes of

the fourth (4th) period and during the last
two (2) minutes of each extra period,
following a time-out taken by the team that is
entitled to possession of the ball from its
backcourt, the throw-in shall be taken at the
throw-in line opposite the scorer’s table in the
team’s frontcourt.
INTERPRETATION:
ART. 17 THROW-IN

Statement 3
During the throw-in other player(s) shall not have any
part of their bodies over the boundary line before the
ball is thrown across the boundary line.

Example 1:
After an out-of-bounds violation A3 has received the
ball from the official for the throw-in. A3
(a) Places the ball on the floor after which the ball is
taken by A2
(b) Hands the ball to A2 in the out-of-bounds area.

Interpretation:
This is a violation of A2 as he moves his body over the
boundary line before the ball is thrown by A3 across the
boundary line.
Example 2:
After a Team A successful field goal or a successful
last free throw a time-out is granted to team B.
Following the time-out B3 receives the ball from the
official for a throw-in at the end line. B3:

(a) Places the ball on the floor after which the ball is
taken by B2
(b) Hands the ball to B2.

Interpretation:
(a)Legal play. Provide B2 has established his location
outside the playing court.
(b)Illegal play. The only restriction for team B, is they
must pass the ball on the playing court within five
(5) seconds.
Statement 4

If a time-out is granted to a team that has

been awarded possession of the ball in its
backcourt during the last two (2) minutes
of the fourth period or the last two (2) minutes
of each extra period, the throw-in shall be
taken at the throw-in line opposite the
scorer’s table in the throw-in team’s
frontcourt. The player taking the throw-in
must pass the ball to a team-mate in the
frontcourt.
Example 1:
In the last minute of the game, A4 is dribbling in his
backcourt 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).

Interpretation:
In (a), the game resumes with a team A throw-in from
the free-throw line extended.

In (b) and (c), the game shall resume with a team A

throw-in from the throw-in line in team A’s frontcourt,
opposite the scorer’s table.
Example 2:
In the last minute of the game, A4 is
attempting two (2) 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 timeout.

Interpretation:
The game shall be resumed with a team B
throw-in from the throw-in line in team B’s
frontcourt, opposite the scorer’s table.
Example 3:
During the last two (2) minutes of the game, A4 has
dribbled for six (6) seconds in team A’s backcourt, when
(a) B4 taps the ball out-of-bounds
(b) B4 commits the third foul for team B in this period.
Team A is granted a time-out. After the time-out, the
game is resumed by A4 with a throw-in from the throw-
in line in team A’s frontcourt, opposite the scorer’s
table.

Interpretation:
In both cases team A shall have eighteen (18)
seconds remaining on the twenty-four (24) second
clock.
Example 4:
During the last two (2) minutes of the game, A4 dribble the
ball in his frontcourt. B3 taps the ball to Team A’s backcourt
where any player of team A starts to dribble the ball again.
Now:
(a) B4 taps the ball out-of-bounds.
(b) B4 commits the 3rd foul for team B in this period in
Team A’s backcourt with six (6) seconds remaining on the
twenty-four (24) second clock. Team A is granted a time-
out. After the time-out, the game is resumed by A4 with a
throw-in from the throw-in line in Team A’s frontcourt,
opposite the scorer’s table. How many seconds are
remaining for team A on the twenty-four (24) second clock?
Interpretation:
Team A shall have;
(a) six (6) seconds
(b) the remaining six (6) seconds on the twenty-four (24)
second clock is reset to fourteen (14) seconds.
Statement 6
On a throw-in the following situations may occur:
(a) The ball is passed over the basket and it is touched by
a player of either team by reaching through the basket
from below.
(b) The ball lodges between the ring and the backboard.
(c) The ball is intentionally thrown at the ring in order to
reset the twenty-four (24) second clock.

Example 1:
On a throw-in A4 passes the ball over the basket when it
is touched by a player of either team reaching through the
basket from below.
Interpretation:
This is an interference violation. The game is resumed
with a throw-in for the opponents at the free-throw line
extended. In case the defensive team commits the
violation, no points can be scored by an offensive team as
the ball did not come from the inbounds area of the
playing court.
Example 2:
Thrower-in A4 passes the ball towards the basket and it
lodges between the ring and the backboard.
Interpretation:
This is a jump ball situation. The game is resumed by
applying the alternating possession procedure. If team
A is entitled to the throw-in the twenty-four (24)
second clock shall not be reset.

Example 3:
With five (5) seconds left on the twenty-four (24)
second clock on the throw-in A4 passes the ball
towards the basket where it touches the ring.
Interpretation:
The twenty-four (24) second operator shall not reset
his clock as the game clock did not start yet. The game
shall continue without interruption.
INTERPRETATION:

ART. 18/19 TIME-OUT / SUBSTITUTION

Statement 8
Each time-out shall last one (1) minute. Teams
must promptly return to the playing court after the
official blows his whistle and beckons the teams on
the playing court. Sometimes a team extends the
time-out beyond the allotted one (1) minute,
gaining an advantage by extending the time-outs
and causing also a delay of the game. A warning
to that team shall be given by an official. If that
team does not respond to the warning, an
additional time-out shall be charged against the
offending team. If the team has no time-outs
remaining, a technical foul for delaying the game
may be charged against the coach, recorded as 'C'.
Example:
The time-out period expires and the official
beckons Team A back on the playing court. The
coach A continues to instruct his team which still
remains in the team bench area. The official re-
beckons Team A on the playing court and
(a) Team A comes finally on the playing court
(b) Team A continues to remain in the team bench
area.

Interpretation:
(a) After the team starts to move back to the
playing court, the official warns the coach that if
the same behaviour is repeated an additional time-
out will be charged against team A.
(b) A time-out, without warning, will be charged
against team A. If team A has no time-out
remaining, a technical foul for delaying the game
will be charged against coach A, recorded as 'C'.
ART.24 Dribbling

Definition

24.2.1 A dribble is a movement of a live

ball caused by a player in control of that
ball who throws, taps or rolls the ball on
the floor or throws the ball deliberately
against the backboard
NOT IN THE OFFICIAL INTERPRETATION:

ART. 25 TRAVELLING

STATEMENT 2:
It is also legal for a player to dive for the
ball, gains control of the ball and
slides, during a pass (interception) or a
loss ball. Provided the said player does
not attempt to stand or roll. If the player
does so, then a violation occurs.
Example 1:
As A1 bounced pass or passes the ball to
A2, B1 dives for the ball during the pass
gains control of the ball and slides, B1
then:
(a) pass the ball to a team-mate while
lying on the floor;
(b) dribbles the ball while still lying on the
floor;
(c) Attempts to stand or roll while holding
the ball.

Interpretation:
(a) & (b) these are legal play.
(b) a violation has occurred.
Example 2:
After an unsuccessful attempt to the basket by A2, after the
ball touches the ring, the ball bounced on the playing court
and player:
A). A3 dives for the ball and slides to the floor, then;
(a.1.) Pass the ball to his team-mate or attempts for a
basket while lying on the floor;
(a.2.) Dribbles the ball while still lying on the floor;
(a.3.) Attempts to stand or roll while holding the ball.
B). B2 dives for the ball and slides to the floor, then;
(b.1.) Pass the ball to his team-mate while lying on the
floor;
(b.2.) Dribbles the ball while still lying on the floor;
(b.3.) Attempts to stand or roll while holding the ball.

Interpretation:
(a.1, a.2, b.1 & b.2) these are legal play.
(a.3 & b.3) a violation has occurred.
ART.28 Eight Seconds

Definition.

28.1.2 The team has caused the ball to go

into its frontcourt whenever:

 The ball touches or is legally touched

by an offensive player who has both
feet in contact with his frontcourt,

 The ball touches or is legally touched

by a defensive player who has part of his
body in contact with his backcourt,
INTERPRETATION:

Example 1:

A1 is straddling the centre line. He receives the ball from

A2 who is in the backcourt. A1 then passes the ball back
to A2 who is still in the backcourt.

Interpretation:

Legal play. A1 does not have both feet in the frontcourt

and therefore is entitled to pass the ball to the
backcourt. The eight-second count shall continue.
Example 2:

A2 is dribbling the ball from his backcourt and ends his

dribble holding the ball and straddling the centre line.
A2 then passes the ball to A1 who is also straddling the
centre line.

Interpretation:

Legal play. A2 does not have both feet in the frontcourt

and therefore is entitled to pass the ball to A1 who is
also not in the frontcourt. The eight-second count shall
continue.
Example 3:

A2 is dribbling the ball from his backcourt and has one

(1) foot (but not both feet) already in the frontcourt.
After that A2 passes the ball to A1, who is straddling
the centre line. A1 then starts to dribble the ball in his
backcourt.

Interpretation:

Legal play. A2 does not have both feet in his frontcourt

and therefore is entitled to pass the ball to A1 who is
also not in his frontcourt. A1 is therefore entitled to
dribble the ball in the backcourt. The eight-second
count shall continue.
ART.29 24 seconds

29.2 Procedure:

29.2.1 If the game is stopped by an official:

 For a foul or violation (not for the ball having

gone out-of-bounds) by the team not in control of the
ball,
 For any valid reason by the team not in control of
the ball,
 For any valid reason not connected with either
team,

Possession of the ball shall be awarded to the same

team that previously had control of the ball.
If the throw-in is administered in the backcourt, the
twenty-four (24) second clock shall be reset to
twenty-four (24) seconds.
If the throw-in is administered in the frontcourt,
the twenty-four (24) second clock shall be reset
as follows:

 If fourteen (14) seconds or more is

displayed on the twenty-four (24) second clock at
the time when the game was stopped, the
twenty-four (24) second clock shall not be reset,
but shall continue from the time it was stopped.

 If thirteen (13) seconds or less is

displayed on the twenty-four (24) second clock at
the time when the game was stopped, the
twenty-four (24) second clock shall be reset to
fourteen (14) seconds.
INTERPRETATION:

Statement 2
If the twenty-four (24) second clock signal sounds in a
situation where, in the judgment of the officials, the
opponents will gain immediate and clear control of
the ball, the signal shall be disregarded and the game
shall continue.

Example:
Near the end of the twenty-four (24) second period A4’s
pass is missed by A5 (both players are in their
frontcourt) and the ball rolls into team A’s backcourt.
Before B4 gains control of the ball with a free path to the
basket the twenty-four (24) second signal sounds.

Interpretation:
If B4 gains immediate and clear control of the ball the
signal shall be disregarded and the game shall continue.
Statement 4
If the game is stopped by an official for a foul or violation
(not for the ball having gone out-of-bounds) committed by
the team not in control of the ball and the possession of the
ball is awarded to the same team that previously had control
of the ball in the frontcourt, the twenty-four (24) second
clock is reset as follows:

■ If fourteen (14) seconds or more are displayed on

the twenty-four (24) second clock at the time the game was
stopped, the twenty-four (24) second clock shall not be
reset, but shall continue from the time it was stopped.

■ If thirteen (13) seconds or less are displayed on the

twenty-four (24) second clock at the time the game was
stopped, the twenty-four (24) second clock shall be reset
to fourteen (14) seconds.
Example 1:
B4 causes an out-of-bounds violation in the frontcourt
of team A. The twenty-four (24) second clock shows
eight (8) seconds.

Interpretation:
Team A shall have only eight (8) seconds remaining
on the twenty-four (24) second clock.

Example 2:
A4 dribbles the ball in his frontcourt and is fouled by
B4. This is the second foul against team B in this
period. The twenty-four (24) second clock shows
three (3) seconds.

Interpretation:
The remaining three (3) seconds on the twenty-four
(24) second clock for Team A is reset to fourteen
(14) seconds
Example 3:
With four (4) seconds remaining on the twenty-four (24)
second clock team A is in control of the ball in the
frontcourt when
(a) A4
(b) B4 is injured and the officials interrupt the game.
Interpretation:
Team A shall have
(a) four (4) seconds
(b) The remaining four (4) seconds on the twenty-four (24)
second clock for team A is reset to fourteen (14) seconds.

Example 4:
A4 releases a shot for a field goal. While the ball is in the
air a double foul against A5 and B5 is called with six (6)
seconds remaining on the twenty-four (24) second clock.
The ball does not enter the basket. The alternating
possession arrow indicates the next possession to Team A.
Interpretation:
Team A shall have six (6) seconds remaining on the
twenty-four (24) second clock.
Example 5:
With five (5) seconds remaining on the twenty-four (24)
second clock A4 is dribbling the ball when a technical foul is
called against B4 followed by a technical foul against coach A.
Interpretation:
After the cancellation of equal penalties, the game shall
resume with a throw-in for Team A and five (5) seconds
remaining on the twenty-four (24) second clock.

Example 6:
With: (a) sixteen (16) seconds
(b) twelve (12) seconds remaining on the twenty-four
(24) second clock B4 in his backcourt deliberately kicks the
ball with his foot or strikes the ball with his fist.
Interpretation:
Team B’s violation. After the throw-in in the frontcourt team
A shall have
(a) sixteen (16) seconds,
(b) The remaining twelve (12) seconds on the twenty-four
(24) second clock is reset to fourteen (14) seconds.
Example 7:
During A2’s throw-in, B4 in his backcourt places his
arms over the boundary line and he blocks A4’s pass
with
(a) nineteen (19) seconds
(b) eleven (11) seconds remaining on the twenty-
four (24) second clock.

Interpretation:
B4’s violation. After the throw-in in the frontcourt
team A shall have
(a) nineteen (19) seconds
(b) The remaining eleven (11) seconds on the
twenty-four (24) second clock is reset to fourteen
(14) seconds
Example 8:
A4 dribbles the ball in his frontcourt when B4
commits an unsportsmanlike foul on A4 with six
(6) seconds remaining on the twenty-four (24)
second clock.

Interpretation:
Regardless whether the free throws are made or
missed Team A shall be awarded a throw-in from
the centre line extended, opposite to the scorer's
table. Team A shall have a new twenty-four
(24) second period.

The same interpretation is valid for a technical

and disqualifying foul.
Statement 5
If the game is stopped by an official for any
valid reason not connected with either
team and if in the judgment of the officials
the opponents would be placed at a
disadvantage, the twenty-four (24) second
clock shall continue from the time it was
stopped.
Example 1:
With 0:25 to play in the last minute of the game and
with the score A 72 – B 72 Team A gains control of the
ball and has dribbled the ball for twenty (20) seconds
when the game is stopped by the officials due to
(a) The game clock or the twenty-four (24) second clock
failing to run or to start
(b) A bottle being thrown on the playing court
(c) The twenty-four (24) second clock being erroneously
reset.

Interpretation:
In all cases the game shall be resumed with a Team A
throw-in and with four (4) seconds remaining on the
twenty-four (24) second clock. Team B would be placed
at a disadvantage if the game were resumed with a new
twenty-four (24) second period.
Example 2:
After A3’s shot for a field goal the ball rebounds
from the ring and is then controlled by A5. Nine (9)
seconds later the twenty-four (24) second clock
sounds in error. The officials interrupt the game.

Interpretation:
Team A in control of the ball would be placed at a
disadvantage if this were a twenty-four (24) second
violation. After consulting with the commissioner
and twenty-four (24) second clock operator the
officials resume the game with a throw-in for team
A with fifteen (15) seconds remaining on the
twenty-four (24) second clock.
INTERPRETATION: (Rephrased)
ART. 30 BALL RETURNED TO THE BACKCOURT

Statement
While airborne, a player retains the same status relative
to the floor as where he was last touching the floor
before jumping into the air. However, when an airborne
player jumps from his frontcourt and gains control of
the ball while still airborne, *he/she is the first player
on his team to establish team control.
If his momentum then returns him to his backcourt, he
is helpless to avoid *not returning also with the ball to
the backcourt. Therefore, if an airborne player
establishes a new team control, that player’s position
relative to the frontcourt/backcourt will not be
determined until the player has returned with both feet
to the floor.
Example 1: (Rephrased & added letter C)
*A4 in his backcourt attempts a fast break pass to
A5 in the frontcourt. B3 jumps from the team B
frontcourt, catches the ball while airborne and lands
(a) With both feet in his backcourt.
(b) Straddling the centre line.
(c) Straddling the centre line and then dribbles or
passes the ball to his backcourt.

Interpretation:
No violation has occurred. B3 established the first
Team B control of the ball while airborne *and his
position relative to frontcourt/backcourt was not
determined until both his feet returned to the floor.
Example 2: (added letter C)
On the jump ball between A4 and B4 that begins
the first period, the ball has been legally tapped
when A5 jumps from his frontcourt, catches the
ball while airborne and lands
(a) With both feet in his backcourt.
(b) Straddling the centre line.
(c) Straddling the centre line and then dribbles or
passes the ball to his backcourt.

Interpretation:
No violation has occurred. A5 establishes the
first Team A control of the ball while airborne. In
all cases A5 is legally in his backcourt.
Example 3: (added letter C)
Thrower-in A4 in his frontcourt attempts a pass to A3.
A3 jumps from his backcourt, catches the ball while
airborne and lands
(a) With both feet in his backcourt.
(b) Straddling the centre line.
(c) Straddling the centre line and then dribbles or
passes the ball to his backcourt.

Interpretation:
Team A violation. Thrower-in A4 has established the
Team A control of the ball in the frontcourt before A3
caught the ball while airborne and landed in his
backcourt. In all cases A3 has illegally returned the ball
to the backcourt.
Example 4:
A4 in his backcourt attempts a pass to A5
in his frontcourt. B4 jumps from his
frontcourt, catches the ball while airborne
and before he lands in his backcourt he
passes the ball to B5 in his backcourt.

Interpretation:
Team B violation for illegally returning the
ball to the backcourt.
INTERPRETATION:
ART. 31 GOALTENDING AND INTERFERENCE
Statement 1
When the ball is above the ring during a shot for a field goal
or a free-throw attempt, it is interference if a player reaches
through the basket from below and touches the ball.
Example:
*On A4’s last or only free throw,
(a) Before the ball has touched the ring,
(b) After the ball has touched the ring and still has the
possibility to enter the basket, B4 reaches through the
basket from below and touches the ball.

Interpretation:
*B4’s violation for touching the ball illegally.
(a) A4 shall be awarded one (1) point & a technical foul
shall be called on B4.
(b) A4 shall be awarded one (1) point but no technical foul
shall be called on B4.
Statement 5
It is an interference violation if during a shot
for field goal a player causes the backboard or
the ring to vibrate in such a way that the ball,
in the judgment of an official, has been
prevented from entering the basket or has
been caused to enter the basket.
Example:
A4 attempts a shot for a three-point (3-pt. ) 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:

(a) B4 causes the backboard or the ring to vibrate and

therefore, in the judgment of the official, the ball is
prevented from entering the basket.

(b) A5 causes the backboard or the ring to vibrate and

therefore, in the judgment of the official, it causes the ball
to enter the basket.

Interpretation:
In both cases. Even after the game clock signal sounds for
the end of the game, the ball remains live and therefore
an interference violation has occurred.
(a) Three (3) points are awarded to team A.
(b) Basket is nullified.
Statement 6
Interference is committed by a defensive or offensive
player during a shot for a field goal when a player
touches the basket or the backboard while the ball is in
contact with the ring and still has a possibility to
enter the basket.

Example:
*After A4’s shot for a field goal, the ball has rebounded
from the ring and then again landed on the ring. The
ball is still touching the ring when:
(a) B4 touches the basket or backboard.
(b) A5 touches the basket or backboard.

Interpretation:
In both cases it is violation. The interference
restrictions apply as long as the ball has the possibility
to enter the basket.
ART.33.10 No-charge semi-circle areas

The no-charge semi-circle areas are drawn on the playing

court for the purpose of designating a specific area for the
interpretation of charge/block situations under the
basket.

On any penetration play situation into the no-charge semi-

circle area a contact caused by an offensive player with a
defensive player inside the no-charge semicircle shall
not be called as an offensive foul, unless the offensive
player is illegally using his hands, arms, legs or body, when

 the offensive player is in control of the ball whilst

airborne, and
 he/she attempts a shot or passes off, and
 the defensive player has both feet inside the no-
charge semi-circle area.
INTERPRETATION:
33.10 No-charge semi-circle areas

Statement
The purpose of the no-charge semi-circle rule is not to
reward a defensive player who has taken a position under
his own basket in order to draw a charging foul against an
offensive player who is in control of the ball and is
penetrating towards the basket.

For the no-charge semi-circle rule to be applied:

(a) The defensive player shall have both feet inside the
semi-circle area (see Diagram 1). The semi-circle line is not
part of the semi-circle area.

(b) The offensive player shall drive to the basket across the
semi-circle line and attempt a shot for a field goal or a pass
while airborne.
The no-charge semi-circle rule is not to be
applied and any contact shall be judged according
to normal regulations, e. g. cylinder principle, and
block/charge principle:

(a) For all play situations occurring outside the

no-charge semi-circle area, also developing
from the area between the semi-circle area
and the end line.

(b) For all rebounding play situations when, after

a shot for a field goal, the ball rebounds and a
contact situation occurs.

(c) For any illegal use of the hands, arms, legs or

body by either offensive or defensive player.
Example 1:
A4 attempts a jump shot that begins outside the semi-
circle area and charges into B4 who is inside the semi-
circle area.
Interpretation:
A4’s legal action as the no-charge semi-circle rule is
applied.

Example 2:
A4 dribbles along the end line and, after reaching the
area behind the backboard, jumps diagonally or
backwards and charges into B4 who is in a legal
guarding position inside the semi-circle area.
Interpretation:
A4’s charging foul. The no-charge semi-circle rule is
not applied as A4 has entered the no-charge semi-circle
area from the playing court directly behind the
backboard and its extended imaginary line (see
Diagram 1).
Example 3:
A4 shot for a field goal touches the ring and a rebound
situation occurs. A5 jumps into the air, catches the ball and
then charges into B4 who is in a legal guarding position
inside the semi-circle area.
Interpretation:
A5’s charging foul. The no-charge semi-circle rule is not
applied.

Example 4:
A4 drives to the basket and is in the act of shooting.
Instead of completing the shot for a field goal A4 passes
the ball to A5 who is directly following him. A4 then charges
into B4 who is inside the no-charge semi-circle area. At the
same time A5, with the ball in his hands is on a direct drive
to the basket in order to score.
Interpretation:
A4’s charging foul. The no-charge semi-circle rule is not
applied as A4 illegally uses his body to clear the way to the
basket for A5.
Example 5:
A4 drives to the basket and is in the act of
shooting. Instead of completing the shot for a
field goal A4 passes the ball to A5 who is
standing in the corner of the playing court. A4
then charges into B4 who is inside the no-
charge semi-circle area.

Interpretation:
A4’s legal action. The no-charge semi-circle
rule is applied.
Position of a player inside/outside the no-charge
semi-circle area
INTERPRETATION:

ART. 36 UNSPORTSMANLIKE FOUL

Statement 1
During the last two (2) minutes of the fourth
period and during the last two (2) minutes of
each extra period, the ball is out-of-bounds for
a throw-in and still in the hands of the
official or already at the disposal of the
player taking the throw-in. If at this moment a
defensive player on the playing court causes
contact with a player of the offensive team on
the playing court and a foul is called, it is an
unsportsmanlike foul.
Example 1:
With 0:53 to play in the last minute of the game A4 has the
ball in his hands or at his disposal for a throw-in when B5
causes contact on the playing court and a foul is called on B5.
Interpretation:
B5 obviously has made no effort to play the ball and gain
an advantage by not allowing the game clock to restart. An
unsportsmanlike foul must be called without a warning
being given.

Example 2:
With 0:53 to play in the last minute of the game thrower-in
A4 has the ball in his hands or at his disposal when A5 causes
contact with B5 on the playing court and a foul is called on
A5.
Interpretation:
A5 did not gain an advantage by committing a foul. A
personal foul is called on A5 (this is an offensive foul) unless
there is hard contact which shall be called as an
unsportsmanlike foul. Team B is awarded the ball for a throw-
in at the place nearest to the infraction.
Statement 2
In the last minute(s) of a close game after
the ball has left the hands of the thrower-in, a
defensive player, in order to stop or not to
restart the game clock, causes contact with
an offensive player who is just about to
receive or has received the ball on the playing
court. Such contact shall be called
immediately as a personal foul unless
there is hard contact which shall be called as
an unsportsmanlike or disqualifying foul.
The principle of advantage/
disadvantage shall not be applied.
Example 1:
With 1:02 to play in the last minute of the game and with the
score A 83 – B 80 the ball has left the hands of thrower-in A4
when B5 causes contact on the playing court with A5 who is
about to receive the ball. A foul is called on B5.
Interpretation:
A personal foul shall be called on B5 immediately unless the
officials judge that the severity of the B5 contact requires an
unsportsmanlike or disqualifying foul to be called.

Example 2:
With 1:02 to play in the last minute of the game and with the
score A 83 – B 80 the ball has left the hands of thrower-in A4
when A5 causes contact on the playing court with B5. A foul is
called on A5.
Interpretation:
A5 did not gain an advantage by committing a foul. A
personal (offensive) foul shall be called on A5 immediately
unless there is hard contact. Team B is awarded the ball for a
throw-in at the place nearest to the infraction.
Example 3:
With 1:02 to play in the last minute of the
game and with the score A 83 – B 80 the ball
has left the hands of thrower-in A4 when, in a
different area of the playing court to
where the throw-in is made, B5 causes
contact with A5. A foul is called on B5.

Interpretation:
B5 is obviously not making any effort to play
the ball and an advantage is gained by not
allowing the game clock to restart. An
unsportsmanlike foul must be called
without a warning being given.
INTERPRETATION:
ART. 42 SPECIAL SITUATIONS

Statement 1
In special situations with a number of penalties 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 2:
A4 attempts a jump shot for a field goal and is fouled
by B3. Afterwards, while A4 is still in the act of
shooting, he is fouled by B4.

Interpretation:
B4’s foul shall be disregarded unless it is an
unsportsmanlike or disqualifying foul.
INTERPRETATION:
ART. 44 CORRECTABLE ERRORS

Statement 2 (Rephrased)
If the error constitutes the wrong player attempting a
free throw (s), the free throw (s) attempted as a result
of the error shall be cancelled. The ball shall be
awarded to the opponents for a throw-in at the free-
throw line extended. If the game has started the ball
shall be awarded to the opponents for a throw-in at the
place nearest to where the game was interrupted,
unless penalties for further infractions are to be
administered. If the officials have realized that a wrong
player has the intention to attempt a free throw(s),
before the ball has left the hands of the free-throw
shooter for the first or only free throw, he/she shall be
immediately replaced by the correct free-throw shooter
without any sanction.
Example 1:
B4 fouls A4 and this is team B’s sixth team foul. A4 is
awarded two (2) free throws. Instead of A4 it is A5 who
attempts the two (2) free throws. The error is discovered:
(a) Before the ball has left A5’s hands for the first free throw.
(b) After the ball has left A5’s hands for the first free throw.
(c) *After the successful second free throw.
Interpretation:
In (a), the error is immediately corrected and A4 is required
to attempt the two (2) free throws without any sanction for
team A.
In (b) and (c) the two (2) free throws are cancelled and the
game is resumed with a Team B throw-in from the free-throw
line extended.
The same procedure shall be applied if the foul of B4 is
unsportsmanlike. In that case also the right of the possession
as part of the penalty is cancelled and the game is resumed
with a throw-in for team B from the centre line extended.
Example 2:
B4 fouls A4 in the act of shooting followed by a coach B
technical foul. Instead of A4 it is A5 who attempts all
four (4) free throws. The error is discovered before the
ball has left the hands of Team A player for the throw-
in as part of the penalty for the technical foul.

Interpretation:
The A5 two (2) free throws which should have been
attempted by A4 are cancelled and the game is
resumed with a throw-in for Team A from the centre-
line extended, opposite the scorer’s table.
ART.46 Referee. Duties and Powers

46.12 Be authorized to approve and use

the technical equipment, if available, to
decide, before he signs the scoresheet, if a
last shot at the end of each period or any
extra period was released during playing
time or whether that shot counts for two
(2) or three (3) points
INTERPRETATION:

ART. 46 REFEREE: DUTIES AND POWERS

Statement 2
The referee is authorized to identify situations when
the use of technical equipment is appropriate, or, at
the request of a coach, to verify if a last shot at the
end of a period was released during playing time
and/or whether that last shot counts for two (2) or
three (3) points. The referee 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 make 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 the score sheet.
Example 3:
Team A is ahead with two (2) points. The signal
sounds to end the period or game when B4 shoots for
a field goal and scores, but only two (2) and not three
(3) 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 Team B
requests the use of replay equipment.

Interpretation:
The technical equipment can be used to verify whether
the final shot at the end of the period was released
during playing time and/or whether that shot counts
for two (2) or three (3) points. The request of coach B
shall be accepted.
ART.50 24 seconds operator: Duties.

50.1 24 seconds device Started or

restarted:

 A team gains control of a live ball on the

playing court.

 On a throw-in, the ball touches or is

legally touched by any player on the
playing court.
INTERPRETATION:

ART. 50 TWENTY-FOUR SECOND

OPERATOR: DUTIES

Statement
The twenty-four (24) second clock shall be
switched off after the ball became dead and
the game clock has been stopped when there
are fewer than twenty-four (24) or fourteen
(14) seconds remaining on the game clock in
any period.
Example 1:
With eighteen (18) seconds on the game clock and three
(3) seconds on the twenty-four (24) second clock player B1
in his backcourt deliberately kicks the ball.
Interpretation:
The game is resumed with a throw-in for Team A in his
frontcourt with eighteen (18) seconds on the game clock and
fourteen (14) seconds on the twenty-four (24) second
clock.

Example 2:
With seven (7) seconds on the game clock and three (3)
seconds on the twenty-four (24) second clock player B1 in
his backcourt deliberately kicks the ball.
Interpretation:
The game is resumed with a throw-in for Team A in his
frontcourt with seven (7) seconds on the game clock and the
twenty-four (24) second clock shall be switched off.
A - OFFICIALS’ SIGNALS

II. CLOCK-RELATED

TWENTY-FOUR (24)
AND
FOURTEEN (14)
SECOND RESET

The same signal.

 END OF
PRESENTATION