Contents
1 Positioning 2 The Lead 3 The Center 4 The Trail 5 Live Ball Rotations 6 Transition Coverage 8 Out of Bounds 9 Throw-Ins 12 Free Throws 16 3-Point Field Goal 18 Calling and Reporting Fouls 20 Personal Fouls 22 The “Blarge” 25 Examples of Charging Fouls 26 Hand Checking 27 Double Foul 28 Intentional Foul 29 Flagrant Fouls 30 Technical Fouls 31 Acts of Deception 32 Rebounding Coverage 33 “Over the Back” 34 Screens 35 Post Play 36 Elbows 37 Basic Signals & Mechanics 39 Violations 41 Closely Guarded 43 Goaltending & Basket Interference 44 Traveling 46 Dribbling 47 Alternating Possession for Held Balls & Jump Balls 48 Jumping the Ball 50 Timeouts 51 Substitutions 52 Ruling on a Last Second Shot 53 Common Terms 54 Appendix A: CORRECTABLE ERRORS 55 Appendix B: NU Evaluation 57 Appendix C: PREGAME CONFERENCE CARD 58 Appendix D: Signals 59 Appendix E: Official Scorer/Timer duties Positioning
Introduction
The three-official system is designed to provide balanced and fair coverage by all three officials to each area of play. This coverage gives more emphasis on primary areas of responsibility thus eliminating the possible trend of over or under officiating.
Always having an official in position acts as a deterrent to fouling and therefore promotes better basketball. All officials should maintain the semblance of a wide triangle on the court. Each official should be adjusting their position with the motion of the ball.
The basic floor positioning will be in effect whenever the ball is established in the front- court. The half-court game begins when the initial transition has ended and the offense begins to set up a play to score.
Ideally, the coverage KNOW THIS should be a wide triangle • When a player with the ball starts a drive to the basket from an official’s primary area, that official has the player and the ball all the way to the basket. • Each official is responsible for an area of coverage that remains the same on and off the ball. • Always be aware of the location of the ball, the players and your crewmates. • Never turn your back to the court. • All officials may call plays that they clearly see, regardless of whether the play occurs in their area of responsibility.
The Lead
The Lead official position and Basic Floor Position coverage area
LEAD OFFICIAL Positioning The Lead official assumes a position of good depth off the endline, approximately two feet from the baseline. The Lead official will move laterally between the 3-point arc and the nearest lane line to better judge the action in their area of responsibility. The Trail official will always be on the same side as the Lead official.
Primary Area of Responsibility The Lead official is responsible for the area between the 3-point arc and their half of the lane area. This coverage extends up to the foul line extended.
The Lead shares an area of responsibility with the Trail official – this area is from the top two lane spaces to the 3-point arc on their side of the court. When the ball is not in the Lead’s primary, Out of Bounds Coverage the official must referee the competitive The Lead is responsible for the whole match-ups off the ball. Referee only the baseline; any ball crossing it will be signaled match-ups, if a defender is just standing in out of bounds by this official. the zone and there is no match-up don’t referee that person. Look for opponents Officiating the Lead that are matched up against each other The Lead will referee the ball when it and remember that match-ups constantly is positioned below the free throw line change. If and only if there are no extended and inside the 3-point arc. competitive match-ups in your area, look to help with match-ups in the Trail or Center’s When the ball is in the “dual” responsibility area. area the Lead official will only pick up the on-the-ball coverage when they have The Lead will become the new Trail on a acquired a position that will allow them to change of possession. stop moving and referee the defense.
Know This • The Lead will call all 3-second lane violations • The Lead’s primary responsibility is watching post play • The Lead official should always look for an “OUTSIDE-IN” position.
The Center
center OFFICIAL The Center official position and Positioning coverage area The Center official will establish a position at the free throw line extended with their shoulders parallel to the sideline. This is the basic position for the Center official regardless if they are tableside or on the opposite side of the court.
Primary Area of Responsibility The Center official will referee their whole side of the court. This area extends from the endline to the half-court division. The Center must also officiate the half of the lane area closest to them up to the free throw line.
Out of Bounds Coverage The Center is responsible for the sideline on their side. This responsibility extends from endline to endline.
Officiating the Center When the ball is out of the Center’s primary, they should look for off-ball screens and weak side rebounding fouls. KNOW THIS • The Center official is responsible for weak Initially the Center official will establish a side rebounding coverage position at the free throw line, if a player’s • The Center’s primary responsibility is positioning dictates, this official can acquire officiating off-ball contact a position a step or two below their initial • Center should be alert for live ball position. Move back to your basic position rotations initiated by the Lead. when play permits.
Remember we are looking for competitive match ups and the best angle to Referee the Defense.
The Center official will referee on the ball when it is located within the free throw line and when the ball crosses the free throw lane line nearest to their sideline.
The Center official will remain the Center on the other end of the court when the ball changes possession.
The Trail
Trail official The Trail official position and Positioning coverage area The Trail official will take an initial position at the top of the 3-point arc and near the sideline. The depth of this coverage will be dictated by the play.
Primary Area of Responsibility The Trail official is responsible for the area above the foul line up to the half-court line. This area of coverage extends around the 3-point arc down to baseline on the Trail’s side of the court.
Out of Bounds Coverage The Trail is responsible for their sideline from endline to endline. The Trail also has the half-court line, including calling back-court violations.
Officiating the Trail Trail officials will keep all ten players between themselves and the baseline in the front-court at all times. This is the basic position for the Trail official. know this • The Trail official must be ready to become If the ball is positioned above the free throw the Lead on a fast break turnover line extended or below the free throw line • The Trail will initiate 5-second closely extended and outside the 3-point arc, the guarded counts on their side of the court Trail will have on the ball coverage. • The Trail official will acquire a position to referee the ball from the “OUTSIDE-IN.” When the ball is driven to the basket or shot, the Trail official must step down to acquire a better angle during rebounding. Look for rebounders coming from behind and over players.
When the ball is not in the primary look for competitive match ups. First look for match ups in the lane, and then look elsewhere if there are none there.
The Trail official will become the new Lead official on a change of possession.
Live Ball Rotations
Introduction Rotation Sequence
Live ball rotations are when the movement The ball location keys the rotation. When the ball is on the weak or location of the ball causes the Lead official side and headed below the foul line extended the Lead should begin to initiate a change of position relative to the moving. ball’s location. This change in position by the Lead affects changes in the positions of the When the ball penetrates the free-throw line, the Lead should close Center and Trail officials. When the ball is down and move across the key to the ball side. live, rotations are controlled only by the Lead and normally begin when the ball moves The Trail will also close down when the ball penetrates the free-throw beyond the free-throw line and towards the lane line extended nearest to the Center. This movement should be basket. towards the foul line extended, in position to assume their duties as the new Center. The goal of rotations is to always have two officials, the Lead and the Trail, on the ball Center completes the rotation by backing out and becoming Trail, side. but is the last to rotate.
The Center and Trail officials will only move when a rotation is Definitions initiated by the Lead.
Strong Side The Lead can facilitate smooth rotations by moving along the endline the side of the court where both the Lead quickly and with purpose. and Trail are located. The Lead initiates Weak Side the rotation the side of the court where only the Center official is.
Close Down movement by an official towards the play for a better point of view.
Ball Side side of the court where the ball is located.
KNOW THIS • The Lead should only rotate when all three officials are in the front-court. • If the Lead begins to rotate and the ball is quickly reversed or a quick shot is taken, • Lead must officiate play in the post, even while moving across the the Lead does not have to complete the lane. rotation • During a rotation, there may temporarily be two Centers, but there • When a player starts a drive to the basket should never be two Trails. from an official’s primary that official has • Communicate through eye contact with your partners to maintain the player and the ball all the way to the proper positioning throughout a rotation and afterwards in basket. transition.
Transition Coverage
Introduction Center to Center
All three officials must shift and move when The Center to Center official shares responsibility for the rear 2/3 of the ball changes possession. In transition the the pack with the new Trail official. Be prepared to assist the official Trail will become the new Lead, the Center in transition from Lead to Trail when there is pressure in the back- will remain the Center and the Lead will court. If no assistance is necessary, proceed to the free throw line become the Trail. extended.
When there is no defensive pressure in the The Center should move with the speed of the ball as it progresses back-court move with the speed of the ball. up the court. Transition coverage is not a time to relax and coast from point A to point B. An official The official in transition from Center to Center must hold their must know their responsibilities in relation to position momentarily, after a shot attempt or change of possession. the position of ball and their partners. The Center to Center official must be positioned to observe all illegal activity which may occur.
Trail to Lead If the ball is advanced into the front-court and is nearest your free throw lane line extended, you must referee on the ball as soon as When new possession by the defensive team the ball crosses the mid-court line. If the ball continues toward the is imminent the Trail official must move as basket, near establishing a half-court game, the Center official will quickly as possible to the opposite baseline. referee on the ball all the way to the basket. Sprint to the far endline and referee the play as it comes toward the basket.
It is preferred that the official is stationary, on the baseline, by the time it is necessary for them to make a call in their primary area of responsibility.
The “Trail to Lead” official is responsible for the front 1/3 of the pack moving up the floor.
Look back over your shoulder and observe the status of the play. Do not relax and turn your head away from the play during transition.
This transition should be in a direct line from point A to point B. The Trail becomes the Lead. The Center continues as the Center.
If there is pressure in the back-court you will be as deep as the deepest player.
Keep the number of times that you get “beat” on a play to a bare minimum.
Transition Coverage (continued)
Lead to Trail
The official in transition from Lead to Trail will maintain a position 3-4 strides behind the ball. The official in transition from Lead to Trail is responsible for on the ball coverage until the ball crosses the mid-court line.
In transition this official is responsible for the back 2/3 of the players moving up the court.
The Lead to Trail official will administer the 10-second back-court count and call the violation if necessary.
Following a successful field goal or free The Lead becomes the Trail throw, the official in transition from Lead to Trail will remain out-of-bounds until the throw in is complete. KNOW THIS • Do not relax and turn your head away Be prepared to retreat in the event of from the play during transition. Be alert, a sudden change of direction and/or concentrate and be prepared to assist at possession. all times. • Moving in transition is not a “home run This official should move in a manner and trot”, any time you move, move with a speed that trails the play. purpose. • Always hustle but never rush. • Once the ball is established in the front- court all officials will referee in their primary area of responsibility.
The Lead becomes the Trail. The Trail becomes the Lead. The Center continues as the Center.
Out of Bounds
Introduction An Official’s Line Responsibilities Primary responsibility for all out-of-bounds Boundary lines of the court consist of calls rests with the official whose sideline or endlines and sidelines. The inside edges endline the ball has crossed: of these lines define the inbounds and • The Lead has the entire endline. out-of bounds areas. A player is out of • Center has there sideline from endline to bounds when they touch the floor, or any endline object other than a player, on or outside a • Trail has the closest sideline and the far boundary line. endline.
When is the Ball Out? Call only your own line. There should be no The ball is out of bounds when it touches: double whistles. • On or outside the marked boundary line • A player who is out of bounds. If an official is in doubt, they may, with a • Any other person, the floor, or any object questioning look, appeal to the on or outside a boundary. closest official for help. When an appeal is • The supports or back of the backboard. made, the responding decision must • The ceiling, overhead equipment or be made instantly. If both officials are supports of the basket unsure they use the alternating possession arrow. Calling out of Bounds To signal that the ball is out of bounds: 1. Give a sharp blast of the whistle. 2. Raise one arm above the head with Out of Bounds fingers extended Coverage 3. Remove whistle from mouth and lower the arm. 4. Simultaneously call out the color of the team entitled to the ball and point toward their basket.
KNOW THIS • The sides, top, and bottom of a rectangular backboard are IN BOUNDS • The supports of the basket and behind the backboard are OUT of BOUNDS • The officials whistle does not make the ball dead – if the ball is out of bounds it is already a dead ball. • A ball that is knocked out of bounds simultaneously by two opposing players will result in alternating possession.
Throw-Ins
Introduction Administering a Throw-in Basic Procedural Steps: Throw-ins are a method of putting a ball 1. Position yourself “outside” the thrower at the designated spot. back in play from out of bounds. Officials 2. Keep ball away from the thrower until you are ready must be able to designate the correct 3. Non-administering officials should box-in the players. location, administer the throw-in, call any 4. Eye contact with partner violations and be in proper position to 5. Raise your arm with an open hand proceed with the game. 6. Hand the ball to the thrower 7. Immediately step back 2 steps and begin a visible 5-second count.
Officiating Throw- Ins The administering official shall hand or bounce the ball to the thrower and move back to observe the action. As a general rule Designating a Spot for the Throw-in bounce the ball for a throw-in on the sidelines and hand the ball to On every stoppage of play requiring a throw- the thrower on the endline. in an official should indicate where the throw-in will take place.
The designated throw-in spot is the nearest spot out-of-bounds from where the violation or foul occurred except for…
• Fouls that occur below the foul line extended and inside the 3-point arc, throw-ins for these fouls will be taken on the endline closest to where the contact Hand the ball to the player on an endline. occurred. Once the ball is inbounded the official will “chop” the clock in. • Technical Fouls, the throw-in shall be administered at the division line on the side of the court opposite the table after the two free throws are taken.
• Beginning the 2nd half, the throw-in shall be administered at the division line Bounce the ball to the player on the side of the court opposite the on a sideline table. The administering official should sound their whistle to indicate the resumption of play.
• Underneath the basket or behind the backboard, the ball is never for any reason taken out from here. Administer the throw-in either to the left or the right of the backboard to avoid contact with it.
Locations for throw-ins
Throw-Ins (continued)
Positioning for a Throw-in Press Coverage Basic Positioning Officials must adjust to the pressure if the There should always be two officials (Lead defensive team decides to press during a and Trail) on the side of the court from throw-in in the back-court. The Center will which the throw-in is coming. stay in the back-court to assist the Trail. The Lead should be with deepest player and have In the front-court the throw-in is all the remaining players boxed-in. administered by the official responsible for the boundary where the throw- Sideline throw-in in back-court in is designated. On all throw-ins the table side going administering official shall place the thrower to front court between them and the player’s basket.
The administering official will be responsible for the activity of the thrower and the player’s closest to the designated spot. Once the ball is granted to the player the official should step back to get a better angle on the play.
The other two officials are responsible to
“box-in” the remaining players. Sideline throw-in in back-court Endline and Sideline Throw-ins in the opposite side going to front Back-court court Trail will administer all throw-ins in the back- court, regardless of location.
Trail may bounce the ball to the thrower depending on the defensive pressure.
If there is no pressure, the Center and Lead may go to their usual positions.
Endline Throw-ins in the Front-court The Lead administers all throw-ins on the Endline throw-in endline in the front-court. in front court opposite side remains in front The Lead will stand outside the player court – closer to the sideline and away from the basket. Endline throw- in in front court table It is recommended that the Lead hand the side remains in ball to thrower on all endline throw-ins. front court
Remember not to designate a spot underneath the backboard and hoop. Pull the player out from underneath that position.
10 Throw-Ins (continued)
Throw-in Violations KNOW THIS • After a time-out or an unusual delay the Once the ball is given to the thrower or official should sound their whistle before placed at their disposal they have five- granting the ball to the thrower. seconds to in-bound the ball. The Official • The administering official should be aware should show a visible five second count. of attempts for time-outs and subs. • The administering official should always It is a violation to make eye contact with both partners • Consume 5-seconds before in-bounding before handing the ball to the thrower. the ball • Always hand the ball in after a • Bounce the ball out of bounds in an goaltending or basket interference call. attempt to throw it in. • All officials should be aware of the spot to • Carry the ball onto the court resume play after a time out. • Touch the ball on the court before it • After baskets, the team may run the touches another player endline or pass to a teammate behind the • Replace the thrower after the ball has endline. been given by the referee • If two or more adjacent teammates take • For a teammate to go out of bounds while positions so they are parallel to a boundary a throw-in is taking place line and are within about 3 feet of it, play • Step across the line should be held up if an opponent desires a place between them. The Penalty: Change of possession
Violations by the Defense The defensive team cannot reach over the sideline/baseline to defend the ball. On the first violation, a delay of game warning is issued, on the 2nd infraction a technical foul is issued.
If any contact is made with the ball or the player a technical foul is given.
Ball at the Disposal of a Team No appreciable delay should be allowed before placing the ball at the spot and beginning the five-second count. A technical foul should be given when contact with the ball or player happens on a throw-in. If the throw-in is following a successful score the thrower should be allowed a reasonable time to secure the ball before the five- second count is began.
11 Free Throws
Introduction
Free throws are awarded for fouls which occurred during the act of shooting, after a team has reached either a single or double bonus situation, or after a technical, flagrant, or intentional foul is called.
Fouls after a made basket will receive one shot. Fouls after a missed basket will receive two shots, unless the shot was attempted behind the 3-point arc which will incur three free throws. Two shots and the ball are awarded for technical, intentional and flagrant fouls.
BONUS SITUATIONS Beginning with a team’s seventh foul in each half; a one-and-one situation will be awarded to fouled player. If the first attempt is successful, one bonus attempt will be awarded. After the tenth team foul in each half, two shots will be awarded. Official’s Positioning
The calling official will remain table side and is now the Center official Calling official will become Center. The Lead and Trail go The Lead and the Trail official will be opposite table side. positioned opposite table side.
The Lead official will administer all free throw attempts.
Know This • Subs for the shooter may only enter on a • Do not begin administering any free successful final attempt. throws until the calling official has • If the fouled player becomes injured, or completed reporting the foul. disqualified before his awarded attempts, • Try must be attempted between the foul their substitute must attempt the shots. line and within the free throw semi-circle • Free throws are not taken for player • Subs may not enter until right before the control fouls. final free throw of a series.
12 Free Throws (continued)
Free Throws for Personal Player Positioning Fouls
Defense Free Throw Attempts for Maximum of 4 players in Personal Fouls the marked spaces. They No players shall be allowed to occupy the must occupy the bottom 2 positions. top two spaces closest to the shooter. The first marked lane spaces adjacent to the Shooting Team endline must be occupied by the defense. Maximum of two players in the marked spaces. The second marked lane spaces on each side may be occupied by the offense. The third marked lane spaces may be occupied by the defense. Not more than one player may occupy any part of a marked lane space.
Free Throw Attempts for Technicals, Intentional and Flagrant Fouls For technicals, flagrant and intentional fouls the lane spaces will be emptied and all players must be beyond the division line. One official will administer the attempts. The ball will be thrown-in at the mid-court opposite the scorer’s table for technicals.
Free Throw Administration
The Lead Official will administer all free throws 1. Step into the free throw area from below the hoop. 2. Move into the lane and see that the lane spaces are properly occupied. 3. Inform players of the number of free throws to be attempted, both verbally and by a one-hand signal (one, two or three shots) or by one finger on each hand for the one-and-one situation. 4. When all signals are completed bounce the ball to the shooter. 5. The Lead is responsible for the opposite lane line and the 1st near space. 6. If the final attempt is made, Lead will be responsible for the starting the clock after the throw-in. The Lead will now assume the Trail position.
Lead official positioning for free throws
13 Free Throws (continued)
The Center official will remain Center official positioning tableside at the foul line extended for free throws • While backing out, signal the number of free throws and then drop your arm. • Begin a ten count. This is the “fist pump” count – slow and discrete with hand opposite the baseline – don’t distract the shooter. Ball must be released by 10 sec. • The Center watches the top three spaces of the opposite lane • The Center will watch the shooter and the basket. • On last free throw the Center is responsible for the clock • If shot misses, Center “chops” down when the ball touches a player • If attempt is made, Center releases raised arm, and the Lead official raises arm during for the throw-in.
The Trail official will be opposite Official positioning for the table and closest to half-court free throws • This position will approximately halfway between the top of the free throw semicircle and the division line. • Turn slightly if players are in back-court. If conditions warrant move into the back- court. • Assist both officials with any violations – but main responsibility is to watch for fouls during rebounded missed shots. • Watch for players outside the 3-point arc who may cross the line before the ball hits the rim.
Know This • Free Throws are awarded in the order that the penalties occurred. • However, always administer Flagrant, Technical, and Intentional fouls last. • All players not in the marked spaces • Free throws for a technical foul may be must remain behind the free throw line taken by any player, including an entering extended and cannot enter the 3-point arc sub. until the ball touches the rim. • If a double violation occurs the first team • After a made final free throw the offense that violates is penalized can run the baseline
14 Free Throws (continued)
Free Throw Violations
Shooting Team Violations • No offensive player can enter or leave a space once the shooter has the ball • Offensive players cannot enter the lane, cross 3-point line, or cross the foul line extended until the ball hits rim. • The shooter may not cross the free throw line until the ball has touched the rim. • For any offensive violation the ball is immediately whistled dead and any basket Delayed defensive is disallowed. violation • After a violation if shots remain, continue to the next shot • If it is the final attempt, opposing team gets the ball out of bounds on the side • Player taking free throw cannot fake a shot or do anything to cause an opponent to violate lane (Technical Foul) Delayed Defensive Violation • If shooter fails to hit the rim on second If the Defensive team violates during a free shot (or on a 1-and-1) blow dead and throw display the delayed violation mechanic, award defense a throw-in under the but do not blow the attempt dead basket • If the attempt is good, drop the signal and • The player taking the free throw must count the basket. shoot the ball within 10 seconds, • If the attempt misses, whistle and signal the otherwise it is a violation. The Center violation and retake the free throw attempt. official will administer this count beginning when the ball is at the shooter’s disposal.
Defensive Team Violations • No defensive player can enter or leave a space once the shooter has the ball • Defensive players cannot enter the lane, cross 3-point line, or cross the foul line extended until the ball hits rim
Players may not cross the line until the ball has touched the rim.
No opponent can “disconcert” the shooter (Technical Foul) 15 3-Point Field Goal
Introduction
To score a successful 3-point try an airborne shooter must have left the playing court from a spot entirely outside the 3-point line. In almost all situations it will be either the Trail or Center official that determines if the shooter was behind the arc or not.
Officials are responsible for signaling the valid attempt and the successful make of a 3-pointer. Officials must use eye contact to coordinate their coverage.
Officiating 3-Point Both feet must be behind the line Attempts
When a 3-point attempt is anticipated the official should adjust their position to enable them to clearly judge the attempt.
The two sides of the court will be divided equally between the Center and Trail official. The area directly above the foul line shall under their common jurisdiction.
The covering official will denote a 3-point try by extending their right arm at head level with three fingers extended.
Trail and Center areas of coverage for 3-point attempts
16 3-Point Field Goal (continued)
The 3-point Attempt
For a successful 3-point field goal, the shooter must have been airborne from behind the line or have their feet on the floor behind the 3-point line when the shot is attempted. KNOW THIS Touching the line places the shooter in the • Lead will only signal in a fast break or two-point area. If the attempt is close to the transition situation and he will only signal line but deemed a two-point attempt, the the attempt, not the successful make. near official should signal that it by holding • Do not your turn back on players and out two fingers below their waist line. court when signaling. • Penalties for fouls on a missed 3-point try results in 3 free throws. • Defensive goaltending/basket interference Signaling a on a 3-point try results in a 3-point award. • If both the Center and Trail indicate the Successful 3-point 3-point attempt, the Trail should referee the defense on the shooter and stay with Field Goal the shot; the Center should release and cover rebounding action. If the try is successful, the covering official will signal by fully extending both arms overhead with palms facing. The other official, either the Trail or Center, will mirror the successful mechanic.
3 Point Attempt 3 Point Success mirrored by Trail and Center
17 Calling and Reporting Fouls
FIRST, Introduction SHARPLY BLOW THE WHISTLE It is important that a definite procedure in officiating AND mechanics be used when a foul occurs. The following SIGNAL procedure should be performed in a crisp and professional THE FOUL WITH A manner by the calling official. Non-calling officials must also RAISED know their duties to keep a game running smoothly. FIST. Calling a Foul
The calling official should… 1. Whistle with a single sharp blast 2. Simultaneously raise one hand, fist clenched, straight and high above the head. 3. Pause 4. Verbalize and signal who the foul is on and what was committed SECOND, 5. Indicate how the ball will be put into play – possession or GIVE THE free throws PRE- LIMINARY 6. Indicate the throw-in spot if a throw-in will follow or give FOUL the number of free throws and the shooter’s number. SIGNAL. 7. If a goal has been scored, signal to count as soon as it is IN THIS legally scored. CASE 8. The official then moves to the scorer’s table and repeats ILLEGAL this same process using hand signals. USE OF THE 9. Hustle to the table and go around the players HANDS HAS BEEN CALLED
FINALLY, DESIGNATE WHERE THE BALL WILL BE PUT IN PLAY FROM.
THE CALLING OFFICIAL WILL NOW HUSTLE TOWARDS TO THE TABLE TO REPORT THE FOUL.
NEXT, INDICATE THE DIRECTION OF THE TEAM THAT THE BALL WILL BE GIVEN TO.
18 Calling and Reporting Fouls Reporting a Foul
Once in the proper area the official will… 1. Come to a complete stop and wait to be acknowledged by the scorer. 2. Slowly state the COLOR of the offending players team 3. Verbally state the NUMBER of the offending player and on one hand signal the number of the player 4. Verbally state the FOUL and give the proper mechanic 5. State how the ball will NEXT be put back in Reporting the Foul: “Count the basket. play – throw-in or number of free throws. The foul is on Black, 5, 6. Remain table side. hits, 1 shot”
The Official will give the “CNFN”...
Color: Give the color of the fouling player (“BLACK”)
Number: give the # of the fouling player (“5”)
Foul: give the correct foul * If a made basket preceded the (“HITS”) foul call say: “Count the basket” and then continue through C.N.F.N. Next: report what will happen next (“COUNT THE BASKET, 1 SHOT”)
19 Calling and Reporting Fouls (continued)
Non- Calling Officials
The free officials should freeze and keep their vision on all the players until the calling official has reported the foul.
The free officials will then secure the loose ball and precede to the proper position to administer either a free throw or a throw-in.
Make sure the proper shooter is on the line if a free throw is to follow. Center calls foul, goes table side. Trail replaces Lead. Lead goes opposite Table side
KNOW THIS • Calling & reporting fouls should take 5-10 seconds • Observe the activity around each team’s bench and penalize infractions when necessary. • The calling official shall notify the player on a disqualification • Reporting official will complete all communication with table before admitting a substitute or acknowledging a time-out request. • The scorer will notify the officials when the offending player’s team commits its Lead calls foul, goes table side. Trail replaces Lead. 7th foul and its 10th foul in each half. Center remains in position. • Every time you blow your whistle your arm goes straight up into the air -closed fist for a foul or an open hand for a violation.
Trail calls foul, remains table side. Lead remains in position. Center remains in position.
20 Personal Fouls
Introduction
It is the purpose of the rules to penalize a player who by reason of an illegal act has placed an opponent at a disadvantage.
Both the offense and defense are capable of committing fouls. Contact that hinders the movement of the opponent from participating in normal offensive or defensive movements should be considered a foul. Illegal Holding The victim that has been unfairly affected use of the hands should receive compensation in the form of possession or free throws when applicable. The transgressor should also be penalized according to the rules with a personal foul. Definitions of Personal Fouls
Hits illegal contact with the ball handler or illegal use of the hand.
Pushing Blocking Hold illegal contact that impedes the lateral or vertical movement of an opposing player.
Push illegal contact by extending of arms which influences the movement of an opponent.
Block illegal personal contact which impedes the progress of an opponent with or without the ball.
Hand Check illegal personal contact by a defensive Player player, which impedes the forward or lateral Hand check Control movement of the ball handler.
Player control common foul committed by a player while they are in control of the ball or by an airborne shooter. 21 Personal Fouls (continued)
Charge illegal personal contact caused by the offense pushing or moving into an opponent’s torso.
Double Foul simultaneous personal fouls of any nature called on a member of each team. Charge
KNOW THIS • Calling a double foul results in alternating possession. • No free throws are awarded for charges as they are player control fouls. • Fouls are not only committed on the ball handlers. Excessive contact away from the ball, in the post for example can result in pushes, holds and double fouls. • It is important to understand the difference between blocks and charges Double and call them when appropriate. Foul • Calling hand checking early in a game can cut down on the amount of contact throughout the remainder of the Definition of a Foul competition. “A player shall not: hold, push, charge, trip; nor impede the progress • A player is disqualified after a fifth of an opponent by extending an arm, shoulder, hop or knee, or by personal foul. bending the body into other than a normal position; nor use any • Bonus: seven team fouls in one half rough tactics. He or she shall not contact an opponent with their one-and-one situation hand unless such contact is only with the opponent’s hand while it • Double Bonus: ten team fouls is on the ball and is incidental to an attempt to play the ball. The use two free throws of hands on an opponent in any way that inhibits the freedom of • Elbows: players in possession of the movement of the opponent or acts as an aid to a player in starting or ball may not swing their elbows in an stopping is not legal. Extending the arms fully or partially other than excessive manner. If there is no contact vertically so that freedom of movement of the opponent is hindered it is a violation, if there is contact it is a when contact with the arms occurs is not legal. These positions technical foul. are employed when rebounding, screening or in various aspects of • “Over the back” is not an official call post play. A player may not use the forearm and hand to prevent an – it is either a pushing or holding foul opponent from attacking the ball during a dribble or when throwing • “Reaching” is not a foul - there must for goal. A player may hold the hands and arms in front of their face be contact or body for protection and to absorb force from an imminent charge by an opponent. It is a form of pushing when the player holding the ball is contacted by a defensive player who approaches from behind. Contact that is caused by the momentum of a player who has thrown for goal is a form of charging.” - 2004 - 2005 NFHS Rulebook
22 The “Blarge”
BLOCKING Introduction illegal personal contact, which Distinguishing between a block and a charge impedes the has been determined to be the “most progress of the difficult call for any basketball official”. opponent
Blocking is illegal personal contact that impedes the progress of an opponent. Charging, a player control foul against the offense, is illegal personal contact caused by pushing into a defensive opponent.
Defensive players must have previously obtained “legal guarding position” to draw a charging call. Otherwise, any contact that occurs is the responsibility of the defensive player. Officials must be aware of the “principle of verticality” which defines what CHARGING a defender may or may not do in a block/ illegal charge situation. personal contact caused by pushing or moving into an opponent’s torso
Ask Yourself 1. Was the defender at the spot first If you answered “yes” to all 3 questions, without illegally contacting an opponent? then the burden is on the player with the 2. Was the defender facing the offensive ball to stop or change direction in order to player? avoid contact. 3. Did the defender have both feet on the floor when obtaining the legal guarding position?
23 The “Blarge” (continued)
Principle Of Verticality
Basic components
A. Legal guarding position must be obtained initially and movement thereafter must Cylinder Principle be legal.
B. The hands and arms of the defender may be raised within their vertical plane while on the floor or in the air.
C. The defender should not be penalized for leaving the floor vertically or having their hands and arms extended within their vertical planes.
D. The offensive player, whether on the floor or airborne, may not “clear out” or cause contact within the defender’s vertical plane.
E. The defender may not “belly up” or use the lower part of the body or arms to cause contact outside their vertical plane, which is a foul.
F. The player with the ball is to be given no more protection or consideration than the defender when judging which player has violated the rules.
G. Just because there is contact does not mean that the defender automatically committed a foul.
H. From this position, the defender may rise or jump vertically and occupy the space within their vertical plane
Principle of Verticality
24 The “Blarge” (continued)
Know This Legal Guarding • For every Block/Charge situation with contact and bodies on the floor, a call Position must be made
Guarding • If the ball goes through the basket before the act of legally placing a body in the or after a player-control foul, the goal shall path of an offensive opponent. There is no not be counted. minimum distance required between the guard and the opponent, but the maximum • The Defense must get to the spot in time is six (6) feet when closely guarded. Every to draw the foul… player is entitled to a spot on the floor IF IT IS UNCLEAR, IT’S A BLOCK provided such player gets there first without illegally contacting an opponent. A player • A player is entitled to a spot on the floor… who extends an arm, shoulder, hip, or provided they get there first without leg into the path of an opponent is not illegally contacting an opponent. considered to have a legal position if contact occurs. • A player who is moving with the ball is required to stop or change direction to OBTAIN avoid contact if a defensive player has To OBTAIN an initial legal guarding obtained a legal guarding position in their position…the guard must do 3 things: path. 1. Legally get to the spot FIRST 2. BOTH feet must be on the floor. • To officiate and rule properly on the act 3. The front of the guard’s body must be of GUARDING…you must know that the FACING the opponent. defender must first OBTAIN an initial legal guarding position. Then…the defender MAINTAIN must MAINTAIN a legal guarding position. • The guard may be moving! (The guard cannot play defense without moving their • The only way to know if the defender has feet) met these requirements is to REFEREE THE • This movement can be in any direction… DEFENSE!!! except toward the offensive player when contact occurs • A player who extends an arm, shoulder, • The guard is not required to have a foot hip or leg into the path of an opponent is or feet on the floor while moving to NOT considered to have a legal position if MAINTAIN the legal guarding position. contact occurs. This means the guard could actually be in the air, and be legal. • The player with the ball may not push the • The guard may raise hands or jump within torso of the guard to gain an advantage to their own vertical plane (principle of pass, shoot, or dribble. verticality) • The guard does not even have to continue • Be aware of players that may “flop” to facing the offensive player. draw a call. • The guard is allowed to turn or duck to absorb the shock of contact.
25 The “Blarge” (continued) Examples of Charging Fouls
Charge by a landing airborne shooter Contact where players hit the floor must be called
The defense may move laterally or vertically Jumping into the guard in a previous legal position
Airborne guard being charged On player control fouls, the basket never gets counted
26 Hand Checking
Introduction
Hand checking often occurs around the perimeter, on drives to the basket, and in the back-court during press situations. There is an acknowledged gray area between good defense and illegal contact. Hand checking is most successfully dealt with early in the game through verbal warnings or by establishing the foul call. Definitions
HAND CHECKING illegal personal contact by a defensive player, which impedes the forward and/or lateral Hand checking movement of the offensive player.
CALL HAND CHECKING WHEN … • A defender leaves his hand on an opponent • A defender continually places a hand(s) on an opponent • A defender places two hands on an opponent • A defender continually jabs an opponent Hand checking • An illegal arm bar is used by the defender which dislodges, impedes or restricts movement
IN THE POST KNOW THIS A forearm may be used when defending the Players will do what the officials allow them post as long as it is not excessive, and does to. Stop hand checking early by calling not dislodge or restrict the offense. the foul and your problems will diminish as the game continues. Incidental contact with the hand(s) that does not impede the progress of an opponent is Warn the players ONCE and then call the NOT illegal. foul!
Preventive Officiating Verbal warnings to defensive players early in the game will allow the players an opportunity to adjust to the desired level and type of contact you and your crew wish to allow. However, verbal warnings should not continue throughout the entire game.
27 Double Foul
Introduction
An official will call a double foul when the contact between two opponents is dangerous, excessive and illegal. This call is often a good way to clean up post play without causing a disadvantage to either team. Double Foul Definition
Double Foul a situation in which two opponents commit personal fouls against each other at approximately the same time. Rulings for Double Fouls The Penalty: no free throws are awarded and the ball is put into play by the SITUATION A alternating possession team. Each violator is Players 1 and 2 foul each other at approximately the same time. issued a personal foul, which counts towards The contact occurs during: (a) a live-ball situation; or (b) a dead-ball the team total. situation.
KNOW THIS RULING: In (a), it is a double personal foul and in (b), it is a double • Verbal warnings and preventive officiating technical foul. No free throws are awarded in (a) or (b) and play should be used first to avoid calling a resumes with possession at the point of interruption by throw-in. double foul. • Holds, pushes and hand checks by SITUATION B opponents against each other in the post Players 1 and 2 are engaged in extremely rough play in the low post are usually the only double fouls called. area and the covering official calls a double personal foul. After the • A double technical foul results in two free whistle, Players 1 and 2 use profanity directed at each other and the throws awarded to each team and the ball covering official calls a double technical foul. is put into play by alternating possession. • “False Double Foul” – is when a second ruling: The double personal foul during the live ball results in no foul is committed after the 1st is called. free throws. The dead-ball profanity results in a double technical foul, • “Simultaneous Foul” – is when a foul by again with no free throws. Players 1 and 2 have each accumulated each team is committed but not involving two fouls toward their five for disqualification. Play is resumed with the same players. possession by throw-in at the point of interruption. • “Multiple Foul” – is when two or more teammates commit personal fouls simultaneously against the same opponent.
28 Intentional Foul
Introduction
An intentional foul is merited when there is no attempt to play the ball. If the physicality of the act is deemed excessive, a flagrant foul and ejection maybe warranted.
Intentional fouls usually occur in only two situations, fast break lay-up attempts and when a losing team begins fouling in an attempt to stop the clock. Severity is not a factor in assessing the foul. Definition
Intentional Foul a personal or technical foul designed to stop or keep the clock from starting, to neutralize an opponent’s obvious advantageous position, contact when away from the ball or when not playing the ball.
The Penalty: Two free throws are awarded to the offended player, and the offended Know This team receives a throw-in from the spot • The first indicator that it is an intentional foul is that closest to where the foul occurred after the there was no attempt made to play the ball. free throw attempts. • A common example is grabbing a player’s jersey in order to prevent progress or scoring after a turn-over • Fouling to stop the clock is not an intentional foul as long as the foul could be interpreted as an attempt to play the ball. • Fouling a player away from the ball to stop the clock is always intentional – same as if the ball has not been inbounded. • Pushing or shoving a player from behind during a lay-up is always intentional and may be deemed flagrant. • Decide whether or not the intentional foul was flagrant, if yes, it is an automatic ejection, two free throws, and throw-in at the spot closest to the foul. • When a team starts fouling to stop the clock – verbally remind them to make attempts at the ball to avoid being assessed this penalty.
Intentional Foul
29 Flagrant Fouls
Introduction
A flagrant foul is called on a player that has introduced violence into the game. Actions made with no regard to an opponent’s safety or the rules of acceptable conduct result in a flagrant foul. A player committing a flagrant foul is always immediately ejected from the game. The standard for this foul is whether the player’s action was “violent and savage”.
Intentional fouls may be deemed flagrant if the play was such that it meets this requirement.
Flagrant fouls have no place in the game of basketball and players committing such violations deserve no place on a basketball court.
Definition
Flagrant Foul conduct of a violent or savage nature, or a technical non-contact foul which displays unacceptable conduct. This involves but is not limited to violent actions, contact during a dead ball or behavior at anytime which is extreme, persistent, vulgar or abusive. Know This The Penalty: The player is ejected from the • Striking, kicking, and kneeing an game and the offended player is awarded opponent are all examples of flagrant two free throws. fouls • The attempt of any of these acts is a The free throws are attempted with the lanes flagrant, contact is not necessary. cleared and possession will be granted at the • Under-cutting an airborne shooter would spot closest to the foul. be a non-contact flagrant foul • An Intentional foul may be deemed flagrant depending on the circumstances • A flagrant foul need not be premeditated • Remember the “violent and savage” standard – this is the determining factor
30 Technical Fouls
Examples of Unsportsmanlike Introduction Technicals include • Acts of Deception Technical fouls are given to a player who has • Disconcerting a free thrower violated the spirit of the game, committed • Taunting or Baiting an opponent an unsportsmanlike act, or attempted to • Verbal abuse or questioning of an subvert the rules in some manner. official
Flagrant Fouls and Intentional Fouls Swearing Definition are also considered unsportsmanlike technical fouls. Technical Foul a foul by a non-player, a non-contact foul by a player, an intentional or flagrant foul while the ball is dead. Administrative Technicals
Unsportsmanlike Administrative technical fouls are Taunting issued when a team has violated a set Technicals rule of procedure.
A player that has endangered an opponent, These technicals are issued to verbally abused an official, or acted in a the violating team. Examples of general unsportsmanlike manner should be Administrative Technicals include: assessed a technical foul. • Too many players on the court at one time Depending on the context a player may • Failure to sub for a injured or be ejected from the game for any of these disqualified player Act of Deception infractions. • Requesting an excessive time out • A 2nd Delay of Game warning
The Penalty: two free throws awarded, and possession is granted at the division line. All technical fouls count as team fouls.
If two technical fouls are assessed to the same player, it results in an automatic ejection. Disconcerting a Foul KNOW THIS Shooter The rules provide officials with the use of the technical foul to regulate unnecessary and unsportsmanlike activities. Officials must be able to control a game at all times – the technical foul is one tool that an official Technical Foul has.
31 Acts of Deception
Introduction Know this Face Guarding Face Guarding, Flopping, and Deceptive • Don’t penalize good defense – a hand in the face of a shooter. Attacks are all infractions of the rules that • This foul resembles taunting & baiting and may be accompanied must be handled by the officials. Each of by it. these acts is penalized by a technical foul.
Preventive officiating can reduce the Flopping instances of these acts and remove the • The “actor” wants to create the false impression that they have possibility of further escalating unsporting been fouled behavior. A verbal warning is advisable – but • Occurs during blocks, charges and screens must be followed by a technical foul if the • The “actor” falls to the court as though knocked down by the warning is ignored. force of the contact. • “Flopping” encourages more acting by both teams, especially if The rules do not intend for good defense to the initial act gets the desired call. be penalized. Challenging a shooter with a • “Flopping” also incites players and spectators. “hand in the face” or getting into position to take a charge are examples of acceptable Deceptive Acts actions. • A defender will attempt to throw off a shooters concentration by lowering their body and going towards the shooters mid-section or The rule and point of emphasis is designed groin. to penalize actions that are clearly not • Occurs during jump shots, often 3-point attempts. related to playing the game of basketball • It is not necessary for contact to occur. If contact on such a properly and safely. dangerous violation occurs – consider it a flagrant foul. Definitions
Face Guarding purposely obstructing and restricting an opponent’s vision by waving or placing a hand near or over an opponent’s eyes.
Flopping when a defensive player or screener acts as though they have been charged by an opponent, when in fact little or no contact occurred.
Deceptive Acts use of hands inconsistent with guarding the ball in a dangerous or unsportsmanlike manner. i.e. taking a “swipe” at a player during a shot
Face guarding is illegal
32 Rebounding Coverage
Introduction Shots taken from the Center official’s primary The Center will cover the shooter, the 3pt line and the weak side The Trail, Center and Lead officials must rebounds. The Lead will work rebounds on the strong side and the be aware of their particular responsibilities Trail will look for perimeter rebounds and interference calls. during a rebounding situation. These responsibilities will shift depending on the location of a shot and the position of the players. Officiating Rebounds
Ideally, if the officials are positioned correctly there should be two officials - Lead and Trail - ball side when a shot is taken. This positioning is referred to as “strong side,” the Center official will be on the “weak side”.
Shots taken from the Lead official’s primary For all shots below the foul line extended and inside the 3-point arc, the Lead will Right side rebound Left side have the shooter and will cover strong side coverage rebounding. rebound coverage
The Center will officiate weak side rebounding and look for goaltending and basket interference. The Trail will handle rebounds that make it to the perimeter.
Shots taken from the Trail official’s primary The Lead will cover rebounds on the strong KNOW THIS side in the paint. The Center official will • These areas of coverage are flexible in rebounding situations. officiate weak side rebounding and look for Officials should call any foul they clearly see regardless of whether basket interference. The Trail will have the or not it is in their primary area of coverage. shooter, the 3-point line and then perimeter • However, rebounding situations tend to lead to lots of off ball rebounding coverage. contact. Make sure not to ball watch or let excessive off-ball contact occur. This same coverage will be used for shots • The incidental contact that occurs during attempts for rebounds from the foul line and for shots taken from must not get excessive or dangerous under any circumstances. the dual coverage area of the Lead and Trail officials.
33 “Over the Back”
Introduction Officiating There is no such thing as an “Over the Back” “Over the Back” foul – illegal contact while rebounding is either a pushing or holding foul. Incidental contact that causes a player to lose possession must be called. Rebounding situations often give rise to large amounts of physicality. As an official Hold the whistle a fraction of a second on you must be able to distinguish between incidental contact off the board when the incidental contact and illegal maneuvers. defensive player secures the ball. If there is other contact that merits the play being Definitions stopped, call the foul. When officiating rebounding in your primary Rebounding area of responsibility, concentrate on the an attempt by any player to secure actions of the second player away from the possession of the ball during and following a basket. This is the player who will push or try for goal. hold in most situations.
Legal Rebounding Position It is not a foul if the second player away Every player is entitled to a spot on the floor, from the basket out jumps the first player. provided such player gets there first without If the second player jumps onto the back or illegally contacting an opponent. pushes off the back of the first person then you must call a foul. To obtain or maintain legal rebounding position, a player may NOT: KNOW THIS A. Displace, charge or push an opponent. • In a rebounding situation there is no B. Extend their shoulders, hips, knees or player or team control. extend their arms or elbows fully or • There is no such thing as ‘over the back.’ It partially in a position other than vertical is either a pushing foul or a holding foul. so that the freedom of movement of an • Don’t penalize players who are more opponent is hindered. athletic than their opponents. C. Bend their body in an abnormal position • There must be contact for the foul to be to hold or displace an opponent. called. D. Violate the “Principle of Verticality”. • Lead officials often need to “widen out” their position on the baseline to properly view the action. • Advantage/Disadvantage should be applied if either team secures the ball. • Watch for elbowing violations once the ball is controlled – also watch for illegal use of the hands by the defending team. • Being able to “clean up” the rebounding during a game is essential to maintaining order. Call “Over the Back” fouls early in the game to limit the amount of illegal contact.
34 Screens
Introduction Officiating Screens
Screens are used by offensive players to free Watch for the legs and arms being stuck out by either the offensive up other players on their team. Screens can or defensive players, this contact is illegal. be for the ball handler or other offensive players looking to get away from their When screening a stationary opponent within their field of vision the defenders. screener may be anywhere short of contact.
When a screener causes slight contact with When screening a stationary opponent from behind, the screener the defensive player, it usually takes the must allow the opponent one normal step backward without defense out of the play. Minimal contact contact. of this nature should be ruled incidental. However, the official must be ready to call a When screening a moving opponent, the screener must allow the foul if the contact is excessive or causes one opponent time and distance to avoid contact. The distance need not opponent to gain an unfair advantage. to be more than two strides.
Officials must be looking off the ball as When screening an opponent who is moving in the same direction, screens are being set. Unless the entire play as the screener is moving, the opponent is responsible for contact if is seen it will be impossible to determine the screener slows up or stops. who is responsible for the illegal contact. A player screened from behind is given additional protection by the rules. When Definition a stationary player is screened from Screen behind, the screened player must be able legal action by a player who, without to take a normal step causing contact, delays or prevents an backward without opponent from reaching a desired position. contacting the screener. To establish a legal screening position: 1. The screener may face any direction 2. Time and distance are relevant KNOW THIS 3. The screener must be stationary, except • A legal screener must be stationary prior to contact with their when both are moving in the same path hands and arms close to their body. and the same direction • There is no violation for moving screens – if a screener is moving and contact occurs – it is either a pushing or blocking foul. • A player who is aware of a screen is responsible to avoid the contact. • The defender may not push or force their way through the screen, that would be a foul on the defense. • If defense does not see the screen there will be contact -this is considered incidental. • “Illegal Screens” (blocking or pushing fouls) are not player control fouls - free throws will be shot when applicable. When setting the screen from the front or side (within the visual field) of a stationary opponent, a screener may be as close as he or she desires, provided that the screener does not make contact
35 Post Play
Correctly officiating the post can reduce the amount of “There is going to be contact in the game of unnecessary or dangerous physicality in a basketball game. basketball. One of the major responsibilities An official must know what type of contact is permitted as of a basketball official is to make rulings as incidental and what should be called a foul. to whether or not the contact is within the spirit and intent of the rules. A basketball Officiating the Post official must develop the skill of knowing when the fine line that separates incidental Most of the post and the players in it will be the primary and illegal (rough) contact has been responsibility of the Lead official. The Center will be crossed. Officials should use the advantage/ responsible for contact on the weak side and may assist the disadvantage criteria for making these calls. Lead when necessary. The rules penalize a player that has placed an opponent at a disadvantage due to illegal Officials must be aware of low-post hand checks and arm contact. bars, pushes by the offense and defense, double fouls, and excessive contact during off-ball screens. Primarily holds In addition to the disadvantage aspect, an are called in the post as one player will attempt to prevent equally important purpose of the rules is another from establishing position. keep players from committing acts that might lead to roughness. Quite frequently When a player pushes a leg or knee into the back of an we see action - especially off ball - that may opponent it is a foul. Neither an offensive or defensive player appear to have no affect on the immediate is allowed to displace an opponent. play, but lead to further roughness if not addressed. KNOW THIS • 3-second Lane Violations are primarily of the responsibility Quite frequently the cause for “rising of the Lead official. temperatures” in a game is due to undue • Players are not allowed to “stiff arm” the competition in physical contact in the low post area. We any situation. need to recognize deteriorating conditions • Double Fouls should be called when opponents have and jump on them immediately. The rules do entered a “tug of war” under the basket. not want this area to be one in which “only • Verbal warnings should be used to keep the contact from the strongest shall survive”. escalating. However, players should be warned once and only once before fouls are called. Some of us have adopted an “anything goes” attitude during rebounding situations as well. As a result much more illegal contact is permitted. Granted when there are five or six big, strong bodies in close proximity to one another there is going to be contact. However, with the “anything goes” philosophy players are now “moving” opponents out of legally obtained positions near the basket in anticipation of securing a rebound. Players from behind are using the “knee wedge” to push an opponent under the basket. Players on the inside are dislodging opponents behind them by leaning into them and then pushing them backwards to get them away from the basket. These actions are all illegal.” - Jeff Kearney
36 Elbows
Introduction
It is the responsibility of the officials to regulate and penalize all forms of dangerous play. A player that swings their arms and elbows carelessly about is placing their opponent’s in danger. The official must be able to identify this violation and Excessive Swinging of the Elbows be prepared to penalize the offending player. Definition
Elbows a player shall not excessively swing their arms or elbows, even without making contact. This occurs when: 1. Arms and elbows are swung about while using the shoulders as pivots, and the speed of the extended arms and elbows is in excess of the rest of the body as it rotates on the If no contact is made, a violation is called hips or on the pivot foot. 2. The speed and vigor with which the arms and elbows are swung are such that injury could result if another player were contacted. Using this description as a basis, an official will promptly and unhesitatingly call such action with arms and elbows as a technical foul.
General Rule Practice proactive officiating…call the violation before contact is made.
KNOW THIS • A player may chin the ball after a rebound.
• If a player swings or throws his elbows If contact is made, a technical foul must be issued to clear out space, it’s a violation • If a player makes contact a technical foul must be issued. • If a player’s elbows come into play while legitimately throwing a pass it should be ruled incidental contact.
37 Basic Signals & Mechanics
Introduction
There are some situations and calls that are repeated many times throughout a basketball game. Signaling the clock to start, granting or waiving off a basket, and the various count mechanics must be mastered by the official at an early stage. Visible Counts Counting Mechanics
Visible Count This count should be from the chest outward parallel to the floor.
Developing a crisp and consistent count will add to an official’s presentation and authority.
It should not start lower on the body and move skyward nor should it start higher than the chest and move downward toward the floor. Lane violation
Used for back-court violations (10), closely guarded (5), and throw-in violations (5).
Fist Pump Slow and discrete with hand opposite the baseline. Keep below the waist as to not distract the shooter. 3 Second Lane Violation to demonstrate this count, extend three This count is also sometimes referred to as fingers and swing your arm through to the “wrist flick” around waist level.
Used only by the Center official during free The Lead should use the arm closest to the throw attempts (10). key area. This is a patient count and should be accompanied by verbal warnings to avoid the forcing the violation.
Should only be called by Lead or Center officials.
38 Basic Signals & Mechanics (continued)
Starting The Clock Waving Off or Counting A Initially the official should have one arm Basket fully extended above their head with their fingers extended to stop the clock. As the No Basket ball becomes live the official should “chop” wave off a basket or attempt by crossing your arms emphatically in the clock. several times at waist level, this should be accompanied by verbal acknowledgement of the call. “Chopping in the clock” From the stop clock position the official will Shots attempted after a violation or after time has expired must be sharply lower their raised hand to their waist disallowed. The official must emphatically wave off the shot to signal line. This indicates to the timer that the ball to both the players, the scorers and the other official that the points is live and that the clock should be started. are not to be counted.
Start the clock when the ball is touched by a The context of a situation will determine which official has the player on the court. authority or responsibility to wave off a basket.
Continue to use this signal even in leagues and situations that have a running clock.
No goal Goal counts
Counting a Basket To signal that a basket is to be counted quickly but deliberately Stop clock lower your right hand to around waist level, this signal should be accompanied by verbal confirmation that the basket counts.
Give this mechanic when a shooter’s attempt is successful despite being fouled. Or if an attempt is successfully released and made as time expired.
Selling Calls These calls must be “sold”: • Be loud • Use emphatic signals • Show no indecision • Don’t hesitate
Start clock
39 Violations
Calling a Violation
When a violation is observed by any official, a specific procedure and mechanic must be displayed: 1. Give a sharp blast of the whistle 2. Simultaneously raise one arm above the head with the fingers extended Kicking 3. Stop and signal the violation 4. Point toward the basket of the team which will have possession 5. Simultaneously verbalize their shirt color 6. Indicate the throw-in spot and move into position for a throw-in.
Kicking intentionally striking the ball with the foot, knee or any part of the leg below the knee. • accidentally striking the ball with the foot and leg is not a violation. • Striking the ball with the fist is also a violation and results in loss of possession Illegal Dribble Double Dribble players cannot start a dribble after their first dribble has ended or put two hands on the ball while dribbling.
It is not a violation if the player has lost control because of: • A try for a goal • A ball that is batted away by an opponent • A pass or fumble which has then touched, or been touched by, another player.
Carry/Palming when a player rolls his wrist over the ball in Carry/Palming an attempt to gain an advantage controlling the ball while dribbling. • For a carry make sure you distinguish between a person’s normal dribble and an attempt to gain an advantage. Most people “carry” when they dribble. • A carry is a specific form of traveling
40 Violations (continued)
Over and Back Once the ball is established in the front- court, the offense may not cause it to re- enter the back-court. • A player is not considered to be in the front-court until they have established 2 Over and Back out of 3 “points” in the front-court. • A player that jumps from front-court without the ball, catches the ball in the air, and lands in back-court is legal because they never established possession in the front-court. • The “Points” for a back-court violation are both feet and the ball. • It’s never a violation on a throw-in. The ball can be thrown anywhere.
Lane Violation (3 second) an offensive player may not be in the key area for more than 3 seconds at a time. • The count resets on a shot or loss of possession. • Use verbal warnings and preventive officiating to avoid making this call.
Back Court (10 second) after securing possession of the ball in Lane Violation the back-court, the offensive team has 10 seconds to establish the position of the ball in the front-court.
Back Court (10 Second)
Stop clock for violation
41 Closely Guarded
Introduction KNOW THIS: • A closely guarded count shall not be The closely guarded rule prevents an started during an interrupted dribble. offensive player from running down the • A closely guarded count shall be clock by maintaining possession without terminated by an interrupted dribble. attempting to score. This violation rewards • There is no closely guarded in the back- good defense and deters the offense from court. excessive delays. • The initial defensive player may switch with another defender and the count will This violation will only be called by the Trail remain as long the six foot radius is not and Center officials. When a closely guarded broken. count is began by the Center or Trail it must • Six feet (6 ft) is the magic distance. be continued by that official, even if the ball • Five seconds (5) is the magic count. leaves their primary, until the violation is called or the count is broken.
The official will maintain a visible count for the duration of the closely guarded period.
The Center or Trail official, who has a five- Helpful hints for 6 ft. distance second closely guarded count in the front- court, must step onto the court and go with the dribbler even toward the other side official’s area of responsibility, showing that he still has the initial count and the offensive player is still closely guarded. Definition
Closely guarded is when a player in control of the ball in the front court, is continuously guarded by an opponent who is within 6 feet of the player with possession. A player shall not hold the ball for 5 seconds or dribble the ball for five seconds while closely guarded. Trail will begin 5 second count
The count will continue as long as any member of the defense is within 6 feet. It does not have to be the same defensive player.
42 Closely Guarded (continued)
Officiating Closely Guarded
Beginning the Count For a closely guarded count to begin an offensive player must have possession of the ball in their front-court, the player may be dribbling or holding the ball. A player may hold the ball for 4.5 seconds, dribble the The defensive player must be within six feet, ball for 4.5 seconds, and hold the ball again without being facing the ball handler and be between the called for closely guarded. ball handler and the basket.
If all the requirements are the official shall begin a visible 5 count. Changes in the “Status” of the Ball Handler A player in a closely guarded situation can hold the ball for 4 ½ Maintaining the Count seconds, then dribble for 4 ½ seconds, then hold the ball for 4 ½ The defense must remain in the 6-foot radius seconds without committing a violation. for the count to continue. The defense must also still be between the basket and the ball The visible 5 count resets every time there is a change in the ball handler. handler’s “status”. The official shall continue their visible count.
Ending the Count The Closely Guarded count will end if: • The ball is shot, passed, or lost by the offensive player. • The ball becomes dead due to a foul or violation • The 5 count is completed and the violation is called. • The defense fails to maintain the 6 foot requirement. • The ball handler gets their head and Not closely guarded shoulders past the defense • The defense is not between the ball handler and the basket. • The ball handler changes their “status” KNOW THIS: If the offense breaks the closely guarded situation – by getting past the defender or breaking the 6-foot barrier – end the count and give the Not Closely Guarded mechanic.
43 Goaltending & Basket Interference
Introduction
Goaltending and Basket Interference are violations that occur when a player unfairly affects the basket, the basketball, the backboard, or the rim. When such a violation is committed by the defense the official shall award the points to the offensive team. This is for foul shots, two point attempts, and three point attempts.
Definitions
BASKET INTERFERENCE A player touches the ball or basket, including the net, when the ball is ON or within the basket. A player may not touch the ball while it is touching the cylinder or reach through the bottom of basket and touch the ball. It is a violation if the player pulls down a moveable rim to affect a shot. Basket interference, when committed by the defence, results in a counted basket GOALTENDING A player touches the ball during a field-goal try or tap while it is in its downward flight. The ball must be entirely above the rim and have, in the official’s opinion a chance to go in.
Know This • Goaltending has FOUR REQUIRED ELEMENTS: 1. Shot 2. Downward flight 3. Entire ball must be above the level of the basket 4. Shot has a chance to go in • If committed by Defense, count the basket (2 or 3 pts) • If committed by the Offense, disallow the points
SLAPPING THE BACKBOARD Goaltending, if committed by the defence (as If a player purposely slaps the backboard to influence a shot it is a shown) results in a counted basket technical foul. The offensive team receives 2 free throws and the ball, and the basket does not count.
Purposely slapping the backboard results in a technical foul
An unintentional slap, however, is legal
44 Traveling
c. After coming to a stop and Introduction establishing a pivot foot: • The pivot foot may be lifted, but not Traveling is moving a foot or feet in any returned to the floor, before the ball direction in excess of prescribed limits while is released on a pass or try for goal. holding the ball. • If a player jumps, neither foot may be returned to the floor before the Traveling may be the most difficult violation ball is released on a pass or try for to call in the game of basketball. Some goal. officials call anything they see that looks • The pivot foot may not be lifted, at all unusual. Some officials don’t call before the ball is released, to start a any traveling at all. Our goal is to penalize dribble. illegal movement that gives the offense 3) A player holding the ball may not touch an advantage, or illegal movement that is the floor with a knee or any other part of forced by the defense. the body other than hand or foot. 4) After gaining possession while on the If you allow the offensive player to change floor and touching with other than hand his pivot foot and travel you take away the or foot, a player holding the ball may not defenders ability to play defense. attempt to roll over, get up or stand. 5) A player who slides across the floor for the ball may continue to slide once the Know The Rule ball has been secured without penalty. 6) At any time, a player may lift one or both The limits on foot movements are as follows: feet in order to pass or shoot, but may 1) A player who catches the ball with both not return either foot to the ground while feet on the floor may pivot using either retaining possession of the ball. foot. When one foot is lifted, the other is 7) After attempting a pass or shot which the pivot foot. is blocked in such a way that the player 2) A player who catches the ball while returns to the ground without losing the moving or dribbling may stop and ball, a jump ball is called. establish a pivot foot as follows: a. If both feet are off the floor and the player lands: • Simultaneously on both feet, either foot may be the pivot. • On one foot followed by the other, the first foot to touch is the pivot. • On one foot, the player may jump off that foot and simultaneously land on both. Neither foot can be a pivot in this case (Jump Stop). b. If one foot is on the floor: • It is the pivot when the other foot touches in a step. • The player may jump off that foot Traveling and simultaneously land on both. Neither foot can be a pivot in this case (Jump Stop).
45 Traveling (continued)
PIVOTING HITTING THE FLOOR and/or SLIDING Identify the player’s pivot foot immediately If a player holding the ball falls to the floor, when they either catches the ball or comes touching with a knee, or any other part of to a legal stop with the ball. the body other than a foot or hand he or she has traveled. Once a pivot foot is established the player may take as many steps with the non-pivot If a player gains control of a ball while on foot as they wish. A player may lift his or the floor on their back and have stopped her pivot foot if they shoot or pass before sliding, they may not roll over. They may sit the pivot foot comes down again. A player up, however. They may pass shoot or start may not pick up his pivot foot before the a dribble or call time out. They can’t get up ball leaves his hand when starting a dribble. with ball except to sit up from one’s back When a player catches the ball with both and they can’t roll from side to side. feet on the floor, either foot may become the pivot foot. When a player catches the KNOW THIS ball in the air and both feet come down • It is not possible for a player to travel while simultaneously either foot may be the pivot dribbling. foot. When a player catches the ball in the • A player may dribble, fumble, dribble, air and one foot comes down before the fumble-dribble into infinity without other, the first foot to touch becomes the traveling. pivot foot. • A player cannot jump with the ball and return to the ground still in possession of The Jump Stop the ball. When a player catches the ball with one foot • If a player rises to shoot or pass and the on the floor, that foot is the pivot foot. The ball is capped by the defense and the player may jump off that pivot foot and land offensive player returns to the floor with on both feet simultaneously. By doing so the ball, it is not traveling but a held ball. however he gives up his right to pivot. This is • A “Carry” is a specific form of traveling a jump stop off a pass or a recovery. when a player rolls his wrist over the ball in an attempt to gain an advantage in If a player ends his or her dribble in controlling the ball the air and then both feet come down simultaneously he or she may thereafter pivot.
Executing a jump stop legally requires both feet to touch the floor simultaneously. They do not have to be parallel.
Remember a player may not pivot after a jump stop. But the player may rise to shoot, pass or may begin a dribble.
If you see a player in the air, about to get a pass or rebound, know which foot comes down first or if they came down simultaneously.
46 Dribbling
Introduction
In order to correctly call violations against a ball handler it is imperative that an official understand what a ball handler can do. Definitions
Dribble ball movement caused by a player in control who intentionally strikes the ball with the hand and pushes, or taps the ball to the floor once or several times.
Fumble Interrupted Dribble Fumble accidental loss of a player’s control of the ball.
Interrupted Dribble when the ball is loose after deflecting off the dribbler
KNOW THIS 1. Interrupted Dribble • Double Dribble - player shall not dribble a 2. Fumble second time after their first dribble ends. • A player cannot travel during a dribble. • During a dribble the ball may be batted into the air provided it is permitted to strike the floor before the ball is touched again The dribble ends when: with a hand. a) The dribbler catches or causes the ball to • The dribble may be started by pushing, come to rest in one or both hands. throwing, tapping, or batting the ball to the b) The dribbler palms/carries the ball by floor. allowing it to come to rest in one or both • There is no player control during an hands. interrupted or fumbled dribble. c) The dribbler simultaneously touches the • A player can always recover their own ball with both hands. fumbled dribble – a fumble is not a dribble d) An opponent bats the ball. and the player cannot travel regardless of e) The ball becomes dead. the number of steps.
47 Alternating Possession for Held Balls & Jump Balls
Introduction Jump and Held Balls
A jump ball is a method of putting the Jump Ball ball into play to start the game and each when the opponents have their hands so extra period by tossing it up between two firmly on the ball that control cannot be opponents in the center restraining circle. obtained without undue roughness. After the initial jump ball possession will • It is a jump ball (alternating possession) alternate between the two teams when the when the ball lodges on or in the basket official calls either a jump or held ball. support. • If the ball lodges on or in the basket The team that gains initial possession on the support, during a throw-in or any free toss is considered having first possession. throw it is a violation. The next jump ball will go to their opponent. All subsequent jump balls will alternate Held Ball between the two teams. when the defense prevents an airborne shooter from releasing the ball on a try or Alternating during a block. Possession
Alternating Possession occurs for… • Jump Balls • Held Balls • Out of bounds off both teams • Official cannot determine correct possession • Ball stuck between backboard and hoop • Double Foul (Double Personal or Double Technical)
KNOW THIS • The two nearest officials should quickly step in to any apparent jump ball situation – this prevents unwanted rough play. • It is the responsibility of the scorer/timer to properly set the Alternating Possession arrow. • Possession shall be alternated at halftime – the ball will be in-bounded at the division line opposite from the scorer’s table.
48 Jumping the Ball
Introduction
The jump ball will be used to put the ball in play at the start of the game and each extra period. In all other jump ball situations the alternating possession procedure will be used.
The jump ball begins when the leaves the referee’s hand and ends when the touched ball contacts a non-jumper, the floor, the basket or the backboard.
Officials must be able to properly administer the jump ball, call any violations during the procedure and know where to take up Official positions for a jump ball to the right position after possession is established.
The jump ball will take place in the center circle. Administering the Jump
The referee shall face the table to administer the jump ball. Before tossing the ball the official will call out the baskets both teams will be scoring at and blow their whistle to signal the beginning of the game.
The toss should be straight up and slightly higher than the players can jump.
Once the ball has left the referee’s hand the official should remain stationary to avoid contact with the jumping players.
Each team will have one jumper inside the Official positions for a jump ball to the left half-court circle, both of the jumpers feet must be nib the circle. All other players will take a position outside of the center circle and must be set at the time of the jump.
The clock shall start once the ball is touched.
49 Jumping the Ball (continued)
Jump Ball Violations Re-Jumping the Ball
The Jumpers may not: The jump is taken if: • Catch the jump ball • There is a bad toss. • Touch the ball more than twice • Both teams commit simultaneous • Leave the center circle before the ball is violations. secured • The ball is simultaneously knocked out of • Control the ball before a non-jumper has bounds. had the opportunity • If the ball touches the floors before either jumper touches it. A tossed ball cannot be touched until it reaches its highest point, but must be In each situation, the clock will be reset and touched before returning to the ground. the game will begin anew.
Non-jumpers may not: KNOW THIS • Have adjacent positions if an opponent • If the toss is poor any of the officials indicates the desire to fill that spot. should blow their whistle, reset the clock, • Enter the circle till the ball is touched by a and have the referee administer a new jump. jumper. • The jumpers are not required to face to a certain direction or even jump for the ball. If one team commits a violation the ball possession is granted to the opposing team. The team committing the violation will receive the possession arrow.
If ball is knocked out of bounds on the jump, the opposing team is granted possession with a throw-in at the spot the ball left play. The possession arrow goes to the team who knocked the ball out of bounds.
Start the game and each extra period shall be started by a jump ball in the center circle. Any two opponents may jump.
50 Timeouts
KNOW THIS Introduction 1. Each team is entitled to two (2) timeouts per game. If in the event of an extra During a live ball, a player’s/coach’s visual or period, each team has only one (1) oral request for a timeout shall be granted timeout, regardless of how many they only when that player’s/coach’s team is in had before the overtime. possession of the ball. A timeout shall be 2. The clock will be stopped during all granted by an official only when a player timeouts. The official may stop play is in obvious control of the ball. A player in because of an injury, timeout, or an bounds who is leaving the floor to save a emergency. ball from going out of bounds may request 3. A player can only call timeout when: a timeout, but he must be in possession of a. Their team has possession of the ball the ball. b. The ball is dead c. An injured or disqualified player has been replaced Granting Time Outs d. It is not during an interrupted dribble 4. After a timeout, the clock shall be started TIME OUTS CAN BE GRANTED WHEN… when the official signals time-in. 1. A team is in possession of the ball (player 5. The team that called a timeout gets the with the ball, or bench personnel) ball at the closest spot to where the 2. Any dead ball situation (either team may timeout was called. request one) 6. If a team calls a timeout and they do not have any, the opposing team will be The granting official will report to the awarded a two (2) shot technical foul and scorer the # and team which asked for possession of the ball. the time out.
In this example, When a player who has possession and is heading out no timeout is of bounds signals for a timeout, the official may grant granted because a timeout. If the player does not have possession, the no team has timeout shall not be granted. control of the ball.
51 Substitutions
Introduction
Legal players may enter the game on any dead ball situation. The official closest to the table, either the Trail or the Center, will beckon on all subs.
Before giving the ball to the free throw Beckon a Substitution shooter or before any throw-in, the administering official should glance at the benches or the scorer’s table to see if any substitutes are ready to enter.
The official should count the players prior to allowing the ball to be put back in play.
Make sure that replaced players are at the bench area prior to allowing the ball to be put in play. Substitutions on a Free Throw KNOW THIS • Substitutes can only enter the game on For a non-shooter a dead ball, after being waved in by an Subs may enter for a non-shooter during official - any violation of this is a team free throws before the administration of the technical foul. final attempt. The Center will beckon the • A substitute is expected to enter promptly player into the game and then the Lead will when beckoned - failure to do so is a administer the final attempt. technical foul. • It is a technical foul if a team fails to For the Shooter replace an injured or disqualified player in If the substitute is coming in for the free 30 seconds when a substitute is available. throw shooter, let the shooter attempt all • Establish eye contact with the other their shots: officials before putting any ball in play • On a missed final free throw attempt do – this will prevent problems. not blow your whistle; the ball is still live. The sub may enter on the next dead ball. • If the shooter makes the last attempt, the official should blow the whistle and raise the right hand above the head with an open fist to call in the substitute.
52 Ruling on a Last Second Shot
Introduction
The official opposite the table, either the Trail or Center official, is primarily responsible for the call on any last-second shot. Each official should be aware of the remaining time in a period and be alert for the timer’s signal. Officiating the Last- Second
No field goal attempt or try may be scored with less than three-tenth of a second on the clock – however a tap may be counted. This When the game clock displays 10th of a second and play is to be resumed by a throw-in does not apply if the clock being used does or free throw when 3/10 of a second or less remains on the game clock, a player may not not display tenths of a second. gain possession of the ball and try for a field goal. The player can only score a field goal by means of a tap of the pass or of a missed free throw. If a try or tap is released before the clock expires the ball will remain live and the period does not conclude until the attempt ends. KNOW THIS • The Referee will make the final decision The Clock in case of disagreement between the officials. The clock will start when the ball touches a • A try or tap does not end when the ball is player on the court during a throw-in. touched by a player. • Lead may need to offer assistance or be On a missed free throw the clock will start responsible if on a fast break. when the ball is touched by a player on the • During the Pre-Game the officials should court. communicate the procedures and mechanics last second attempts. Reaffirm On a made free throw the clock will start the information during timeouts close to when the ball is in bounded and touched by the end of a half. a player on the court. • Do not consult the timers on a last-second attempt or try unless you do not hear the timer’s signal.
Signal Last Shot Responsibility
53 Common Terms
Introduction Player Control a player is in control when they are holding There are certain terms found in the or dribbling a live ball inbounds. There is no basketball rule book that an official should player control during an interrupted dribble. be to understand and define. Team Control a team is in control when a player on the Definitions team is in control, while a live ball is being passed among teammates and during an Airborne Shooter interrupted dribble. Team control ends when a player who has released the ball on a try the ball is in flight for goal, an opponent for a goal and has not returned to the floor. controls the ball, or the ball becomes dead. The airborne shooter is considered to be in Neither team nor player control exists during the act of shooting. a dead ball, throw-in, a jump ball or when the ball is in flight during a tap or a try for a Continuous Motion goal. applies to a try or tap for field goals and free throws, but it has no significance unless DEAD BALL there is a foul by the defense during the when the ball is out of bounds, or signalled interval which begins when the habitual dead by an official due to a foul or violation. throwing movement starts and ends when the ball is clearly in flight.
Shooting the act of shooting begins simultaneously with the start of the try and ends when the ball is clearly in flight (includes the airborne shooter).
Try when a player begins the motion which habitually precedes the release of the ball. The try ends when the attempt is successful or when the ball touches the floor.
Tap/Tip is the contacting of the ball with any part of a player’s hand in an attempt to direct the ball into their basket. A tap shall be An airborne shooter is in player control until they return to the floor. considered the same as a try for goal.
54 Appendix A: Correctable Errors
Introduction 5. If an error is corrected, play shall be resumed from the point at which it was There are five correctable errors that an interrupted to rectify the error, unless it official may change in the course of a game. involves awarding a merited free throw(s) While these occurrences are rare an official and there has been no change of team should be aware of his ability to rectify such possession since the error was made, in mistakes. which case play shall resume as after any free-throw attempt(s). Rule 2 – Section 10 Correctable Errors
1. Officials may correct an error if a rule is inadvertently set aside and results in: a. Failure to award a merited free throw. b. Awarding an unmerited free throw. c. Permitting a wrong player to attempt a free throw. d. Attempting a free throw at the wrong basket. e. Erroneously counting or canceling a score.
2. In order to correct any of the officials’ errors listed in article 1, such error must be recognized by an official during the first dead ball after the clock has properly started.
3. If the error is a free throw by the wrong player or at the wrong basket, or the awarding of an unmerited free throw, the free throw and the activity during it, other than unsportsmanlike, flagrant, intentional, or technical fouls, shall be canceled.
4. Points scored, consumed time and additional activity, which may occur prior to the recognition of an error, shall not be nullified. Errors because of free-throw attempts by the wrong player or at the wrong basket shall be corrected.
55 Appendix B: NU Evaluation
56 Appendix B: NU Evaluation (continued)
57 Appendix C: Pre Game Conference Card
58 Appendix D: Signals
59 Appendix E: Official Scorer/Timer duties
60 Appendix E: Official Scorer/Timer duties (continued)
61