Fred Horgan FIBA Instructor It is a great pleasure that we inform you of our friend's nomination and FIBA instructor FRED Horgan from Canada as FIBA AMERICAS official rules interpreter. Fred is member of our Technical Commission and also of World FIBA, jointly with Mario Hopenhaym and Hank Nichols. Recently it has been named to write on the new text of the Official Rules.      More >>

7/17/2005	troy paul - ESTADOS UNIDOS
	Question: What is the rulling on: If a shooter takes a shot that does not hit anything (airball) and catches the ball himself, is this traveling or what is the call? Thanks, Answer: It is perfectly legal for the shooter to retrieve the ball. The key here is that the official is satisfied that a shot for a goal took place.

 

7/12/2005

slm - UNITED KINGDOM

Question: Nearing the 5th second in a free-throw situation before the shooter has released the ball, ALL players from both teams suddenly rush into the paint (a result of nerves in a tight game). The free-throw shooter panics and lowers the ball instead of shooting it. Is it correct to call a 5 second violation on the free-throw shooter in this situation? What is the correct call procedure for this situation? Answer: The hypothetical situation you describe would be be handled simply administering the free throws again. This would be more covered by the spirit of the rule than by the letter of the rule.

 

7/12/2005

Belgharek Sami - TUNISIA

Question: 3. During the last two (2) minutes of the fourth (4th) period or any extra-period, if a time out is granted: - to the non scoring team after the valid basket, - to the team that has been awarded the possession of the ball in its back court, The throw-in following the time-out shall be administrated at the centre-court line opposite at the scorer's table. The player taking the throw-in may pass the ball into the front or back court. This one of the rule changes approved in the last cenral board of FIBA.Can i understand the reason of this change? Thank you! Answer: This enables the team receiving the ball to move the ball into the front court sooner, thus making the game potentially more exciting. If that team chooses not to do so, it is entitled to pass the ball to the back court if it wishes.

 

7/11/2005

Ho Shuet Mei - SINGAPORE

Question: I wish to clarify on the article on 'Closely Guarded Player'. A tall player (2m in height) has a live ball on the court is closely guarded when an opponent (1.6m in height) is in an actively guarding position with a distance of no more than one metre (1m). The tall player is holding the ball above his head that the opponent can't reach the ball. Shall we call a 5-sec violation? Answer: Yes. It is not necessary that the guarding player be trying to gain the ball. Agressive guarding is sufficient

 

7/10/2005	john - UNITED KINGDOM
	Question: will a team with just four players like for example fouled out be allowed to continue playing or defaulted in the game? Answer: Although a game cannot begin unless a team has five players on the court, a team can continue to play (after the game has begun) with as few as two players. Once that team has "fewer than two", however, the game is lost by default.

 

7/6/2005

jb - PHILIPPINES

Question: A watch in the competition here. They used 3-man officiating crew. In case of free throws, the trail referee is in the opposite side and the center referee is in the table side. Is there new mechanics in 3 man officiating? In the fiba.com website in case of free throws, the trail referee is in the table side. could you please crarify... where could I download is new mechanics for 3-man mechanics? thanks in advance Answer: The trail official will always be on the same side as the lead official. The 3-person mechanics can be downloaded from the FIBA website

 

6/19/2005

Peter Strikwerda - NETHERLANDS

Question: At start of 3rd quarter the player has his feets straddling the mid court line. The player throuws in the ball but, without touching anybody or the court it crosses the side line at the other side of the court. Where and how are we going to continue the intake of the ball ? Answer: Obviously the thrower-in has committed a violation. The opponents will be awarded a throw-in. In order that the opponents not be placed at a disadvantage by the violation, it would seem appropriate that the resulting throw-in be administered on team B's backcourt side of the centre line extended, at the point of the original throw-in.

 

6/16/2005

Soesman Gilbert - SURINAME

Question: When team-CLD is given 2 freethrows and while the CLD-player is at de line to take the first freethrow a bottle is throw on the court. This bottles is thrown at the player or at the court and reaches the court and flew through the bucket (box) after the free-trhow has left the players hand. This action is done by the opponent crowd-Dorenas, to distract the CLD-player so that he can miss the freethrow. What should the refree do if the freethrow is missed by the player of teamCLD. This action took place at the men semifinals in suriname this week (9 and 14 june 2005) Answer: Since the ball had left the free thrower's, no disconcertion could have occurred. Leave it up to the organizing authorities and the security team to handle the fan. Do not give a technical foul or any such thing to the fan; that would be not only an incorrect application of a rule but also could be a total disaster.)

 

6/12/2005	David H Dice - ESTADOS UNIDOS
	Question: I would like the lay out diagram of a basketball court.I have not been able to fine the measurements so I can lay out a court for the kids. Thank you Dave Answer: The diagram that you are looking for in contained in the Official Basketball Rules, page 8. These rules are available as a free download at either the FIBA website (www.fiba.com) or the FIBA Americas site.

 

6/11/2005	bong fuentes - PHILIPPINES
	Question: when thwe officials calls a travel violation to the player, when the lifted pivot raise and be touch to the floor or when the ball has release to the hands of the player? Answer: The violation is called when the lifted pivot foot again returns to the floor.

 

6/10/2005

Luis W. - CHINA

Question: Dear Sir, In three-person mechanics, it was mentioned that the responsible official should give the two-point field goal, is it right that when in Lead's responsible area, a two-point succeeded, he should sign it? And i was wondering that after the only or the last successful free-throw, shall the new Trail give the Time-in after it'll be a live ball? (No matter in two-person or three-person) Thank You very much~! Answer: Yes, with the signal to be mirrored by the trail. And i was wondering that after the only or the last successful free-throw, shall the new Trail give the Time-in after it'll be a live ball? (Answer) Yes.(No matter in two-person or three-person) Thank You very much~!

 

6/10/2005

Ho Shuet Mei - SINGAPORE

Question: I wish to seek clarification on Art 26 – 3-seconds Rule. Shall a 3-seconds violation be called if: - a)The player has been in the restricted area for more than 3 seconds while his team is in control of the ball in the front court but the ball is not in his hands. b)Same as (a) and he just received a pass from his team-mate. c)Same as (a) but the player is doing a screening for his team-mate dribbling toward the basket. Answer: The wording of the original press release was incorrect. It has now been changed. In effect, the answer to your question is that the substitution or time-out will be granted following the last free throw, provided that free throw is successful. See the revised press release for the proper wording. (3)If timeout or substitution is granted when the ONLY free throw is successful, why can’t the same apply to the last successful free throw (second or third) since both scenarios are identical? (Answer) The corrected wording refers to the last or only free throw.

 

6/10/2005

Peteris Mors - LATVIA

Question: Team A has the next throw-in after the time out, it is 10 seconds left and the score is A90 – B91. When the time out is over, the teams come to the court and team A has 6 (six) players. (Assuming that the officials and table officials are doing their job correctly, one player must have entered or remained on the court illegally). The time clock starts and Team A makes 3 point attempt and the foul is called on the player, who made a shot, the basket is made. There is no time left (the game is over). So, what should the referee do? The basket counts (3 points and additional 1 free throw). How to finish the game? Thank you! peter Answer: To begin with, it is clear the floor officials as well as the scorer were not doing their jobs correctly. Otherwise there would not have been eleven players on the court. This would be especially crucial because of the closeness of the game and the limited period of time remaining to be played. The officials involved should find another job. In terms of how to finish the game, the score would now be team A 93 - team B 91. Award the fouled player one free throw and if it is successful, it would be impossible for team B to win. If it is not successful, assess a technical foul to team A for having had too many players on the court. If both free throws are successful, an extra period will be necessary. I STRESS, HOWEVER, THAT THIS RIDICULOUS SITUATION WILL NEVER HAPPEN IF THE OFFICIALS, THE FLOOR OFFICIALS AND TABLE OFFICIALS, ARE PAYING ATTENTION TO WHAT THEY SHOULD BE DOING.

 

6/1/2005

Gens V.Varghese - ESTADOS UNIDOS

Question: In the initial jump ball to start the 1st period A4 taps the ball in to opponent's basket.Referee awards 3 points to A team.Team B took end line throw-in as after normal basket.For whom will be the Alternating position Arrow's direction? Thanking you. Warm Regards Gens V V Answer: The A.P. arrow will be set for team A because team B was the first team to gain contro; of the ball following the legal tap.

 

6/1/2005

Alessio - ITALY

Question: I've read the summary of the new rule changes for the 2005-2006, but I couldn't find the "real" text. Where is it possible to find it? Thank you in advance Answer: The rules text that came into effect following Athens is available as a free download on the FIBA website (www.fiba.com) . If you are referring to the changes which will take place in October, 2005, they can be found in the "press release" section (a subsection of FIBA News), also on the website.

 

5/28/2005

EL Dabbagh Ossama - EGYPT

Question: Team A which is mentioned first in the score late than the begining of the game 10 min , and they gave the refree an acceptable reasone , so he will start the game , shall this team have the right to choose the bench on the left of score table and there own basket , or it is dropped according to there lateness thank u for reply Answer: Team A shall sit at its assigned bench, to the left of the scoere's table as stipulated by rule. The home team (or the first on the score sheet) no longer has the choice of at which basket they will shoot or at which bench they will sit (Art. 9)

 

5/26/2005

Austin - CAMBODIA

Question: If a player receive a pass on a continuous motion/movement and drive to the basket taking two steps without driblling that was not a travellin, My question is, If a player receive a pass outside the restricted area, with both feets on the floor and without driblling or establishing a pivot leg, takes two steps to the basket, is that a travelling violation? Answer: You have simplified the dribbling rule too much. In you first situation, "two steps" would only be possible if the player had neither foot on the floor when the ball was received and then landed on one foot, jumped off that foot and then landed on both feet simultaneously (a "jump stop"). In this case, the player would not be permitted to pivot before releasing the ball on the shot for a goal. In your second situation where the player receives the ball while both feet are on the floor, a pivot foot would be determined as soon as the player lifted either foot (at which time the other foot would become the pivot). This would account for "one step". To lift the pivot foot and then return it to the floor before releasing the ball on the shot would be a treveling violation.

 

5/25/2005

Rishi - ESTADOS UNIDOS

Question: Thanks for answering my question. If a player shoots the ball, misses the shot, does NOT hit the rim, but does hit the backboard, can he get his own rebound, come down with the basketball, and then go back up with the shot or does he have to hit the rim to rebound his shot and come down with the basketball? Thanks a lot! Answer: Provided the official is satisfied that a legitimate shot for a goal has taken place, the action that you have described is legal. The 24-second clock will continue to run, however

 

5/24/2005

SATO - JAPAN

Question: ‡@ #4(Team A) took a jump shot,but the ball missed the ring and backboard. #4(Team A) took a rebound by the first touch. It is no travelling and no double dribble. Is it true? ‡A Team A controled a ball. #5(Team A) committed a technical foul, after #6(Team B) committed a technical foul. No free throws penalised and Team A got a throw-in. Is it true? ‡B Team A controled a ball. #6(Team A) committed a technical foul. #7(Team B) committed a technical foul, after lead official gave a ball to free throw shooter. Team A and Team B gets 2 free throws. And Team A gets a throw-in from the line where #6(Team A) committed a technical foul. Is it true? Answer: 1. This is legal. Team A shall have only whatever time is remaining in the 24-second period. 2. Yes. Team A shall have only whatever time was remaining in the 24-second period. 3.The penalties for the two technical fouls cancel each other. Play resumes as in the previous question.

 

5/18/2005

Tomek Trawicki - POLAND

Question: In the rules we have:"A time-out is granted against a team whose coach first made a request unless the time-out is granted following a field goal scored by the opponents and without a foul being called" Does it mean that when we have a violation during a shot for a field goal and the goal is count the time-out shall be granted for the team who lost the goal or for the team who first requests the time-out? Answer: The only violation that could occur during a shot for a goal with the goal being counted would be defensive interference or defensive goal tending. If this happens other than during the final two minutes of play for the last period or an extra period, then the time-out shall be granted to the team that first requested it; this would be the same as after any violation. If, however, the situation took place during the final two minutes of the last (or extra) period, the time-out would be assigned to the team that was scored upon.

 

5/17/2005

ahmed El-Falaki - EGYPT

Question: Good Morning and Thank You for Answering My Question This is My Case: In Tha Final Minute of the Game Team A was Leading By Two Points, Team B was in Control of the Ball Trying to Take The Lead once Again. Player B1 was Trying to Penetrate to the Zone Area; with a Correct Defensive Status (as the Judgement of the REFEREE) Player A1 Took Control with a good Chance of a Fast Break. Player B1 who Thought has a Right of a Foul against Team A Said Bad Words to the Referee. At The Same Moment The Ball was Passed to Player A2 Near The Opponents Basket with only One Defender B2 Under The Team B Basket Who Makes a Flagrant Unsportsmalike Foul. Shall The Refree Call a Technical Foul against B1 in Addition to an Unsportsmanlike Foul Against B2 or this May Lead to a Disaster in the Game.....!!!!! Answer: It is up to the official whether or not the language by the team B player merited a technical foul. The official must take into consideration that blowing the whistle would take away the team A opportunity to score a goal. In any case, whether the technical foul is called or not, the unsportsmanlike foul must be called provided the signal to end the game has not yet sounded. If the signal has sounded, the foul must be recorded onn the back of the scoresheet and directed to league or tournament organizers. By the way you describe the situation, it would seem that "disaster" is unavoidable anyway!

 

5/16/2005

Gens V.Varghese - INDIA

Question: 1, Art 31.3.2 - (Mechanics) After an interference/goal tending violation by the defense, does the referee check the ball, or allow the play to continue uninterrupted, after showing the "basket count signal", as after a normal field goal? If the ball is checked, are both teams entitled for substitutions/time outs? 2, Correctable Errors. (Art. 44.2.5) - When the error constitutes awarding unmerited free throws OR the wrong player attempting the free throws, the rule stipulates only about cancellation of the free throws and re-starting the game. In the case of a wrong player attempting the free throws, does this mean that after canceling the attempted free throws, the correct player will not be given the free throws which are rightfully his? [The text is silent on this, though further steps for re-starting the game are explained in minute detail.] Regards Gens V V Answer: 1.The referee signals that the goal counts but does not handle the ball. 2.No replacement free throws are given. Play resumes with a throw-in for that player's team.

 

5/15/2005

R.MURALI - INDIA

Question: As per article 45.6 Referees uniform shall consist of Officials shirt,long black trousers,etc.Does this mean that the Grey T-shirt hitherto worn by referees is replaced.If so what are the permissible range of colours for the referees shirt and should it be a single solid color.Kindly enlighten me. Murali-India Answer: For official FIBA competitions, this is the proper uniform. For national or domestic competitions, the official uniform shall be approved by the National Federation of that country or the Local Organizing Committee.

 

5/14/2005

Luis W. - CHINA

Question: Dear Sir, Do the FIBA officials have to signal the two-point successful shot after a successful two-point attampt(No matter in 2-person or 3-person)? And without the alternating possession in the past, I want to know how should the officials stand when the jumpball happens near the two free-throw circles(Both in 2-person and 3-person)? Your answers would be appreciated. Answer: Yes. The officials should position themselves as with any throw-in situation as covered in the Mechanics Manuals.

 

5/14/2005

Steven - AUSTRALIA

Question: As a referee I would appreciate it if you could clear up a few regularly occuring things for me: 1. Is forcefully pushing a player backwards while boxing him out a foul? 2. If you come to a stop with the ball and have one foot in the front court and one in the backcourt, can a 'ball returned to backcourt' violation be called for leaning backwards over the line? 3. If an offensive player tries to shoulder a defensive player out of the way who is running next to him but not in proper defensive position, what is the correct call? 4. What is the so called "no call zone" under the basket? 5. Is the hand part of the ball? Thank you very much for helping me. Answer: 1. Yes. 2. "Leaning" is of no consequence. 3. This is a team control foul or could possibly be an unsportsmanlike foul, depending on the situation. 4.There is no such zone in FIBA. 5. The hand is considered a part of the ball when the player is holding the ball other than in the act of shooting.

 

5/10/2005	Ho Shuet Mei - SINGAPORE
	Question: Wrt to Qns 194, which official (Trail or Center) will signal a successful two-point attempt if 3-man officiating is used? In two-man officiating, it is understood that Trail will signal a field goal. Answer: The official from whose primary area the shot was taken shall be the first to signal the attempt.

 

5/6/2005

Luis W. - CHINA

Question: Dear Sir, Followed by the Q#192, as I'm concerned, more & more FIBA referees are now using the arm-shaving to count the seconds(three, five & eight). I think the purpose is to avoid the additional pressure from the coaches, players & spectators. So does it matter too much? I heard that since now If you're gonna be an FIBA referee, then you must have a height more than 6 ft.? Is it right? Or how tall? The last question is my basketball teacher told me that when an offensive player dribbles in the restricted area, no three seconds would be counted & called? What I'm wondering is if an offensive player gets the ball when he's in the restricted area for nearly 3 seconds then he dribbles, and stop dribbling, from then on, how will go on as an official's judgement? Answer: 1 (Answer) Yes. Only authorized signals are permitted, Otherwisr, officials all over the world would be experimenting. 2(Answer) This is totally false. 3(Answer) This is also incorrect, If, however, an player has been in the restricted area for fewer than 3 seconds and then receives the ball, that player is permitted to make a direct move to the basket in an attempt to score. This move may include a brief dribble. If that player then aborts the try for a goal, 3 seconds is called immediately.

 

5/6/2005

Ho Shuet Mei - SINGAPORE

Question: In two-persons officiating, it is clear that the TRAIL offical will signal both successful two-point and three-point attempt. In three-persons mechanic and for three-point coverage, the covering official will indicate a three-point attempt. Once the attempt is successful, the covering official will signal a success three-point attempt and the TRAIL/CENTER Official must mirror the signal. For two-point attempt in three-person officiating, what will be the procedure? The three-man manual did not cover this area. Appreciate you can enlighten us. Thank you. Answer: In 2-person mechanics, only the trail official signals that a goal counts.

 

5/5/2005

Ho Shuet Mei - ESTADOS UNIDOS

Question: Dear Sir, With respect to Qns 185 & 191, where specifically in the two-persons manual are the situtations where the 'start clock' (a.k.a. Time-in) signal is required? I managed to locate the following sections in two-persons manual where the 'start clock' signal is needed:- 1. Section 3.2 Open Toss 2. Section 5.2 Throw-in, point 6 (covers out of bounds situation 3. Administration of Time-out except for the 'throw-in after successful free throw'. Hope you can enlighten us. Thank you. Answer: There is no such listing within the 2-Person manual. The "start clock" signal is to be given whenever a stopped clock is to be re-started. This would include on the opening tap as well as all throw-ins (which would include a throw-in that follows an alternating possession, a time-out or a successful final free throw). The exception to this procedure is following the stopping of the clock after a field goal during the final two minutes of play. It is the responsibility of the timer to know that the clock is to be re-started when the throw-in touches a player on the court.

 

5/5/2005

Luis W. - CHINA

Question: Sir, in the two officials' manual, if an official calls a defensive foul when there need to be resumed by free-throw(s), is it correct that this official(the new trail official who called the defensive foul) should always stand out of the restricted area(the free-throw line extended out of the three-point line) and the other official will administer the free-throw(s) in the restricted area? And the other question is how about this situation in the three officials' manual? Your answers will be appreciated. Answer: In 2-person officiating, the mechanic that you have described is correct. In 3-person, the official who calls the foul will move to the side opposite the table. The new "lead" will always administer the free throws from the opposite side (3-person manual, pages 25-26).

 

5/5/2005

Luis Wang - CHINA

Question: I'm wondering that shall FIBA referees use the "start the clock" signal when there is especially in throw-in situation like the NBA referees(they don't use the straight arm "stop the clock/do not start the clock" signal in any situation, and when they start the clock, some referees' palms become like clenched fists). But more & more referees are now using the arm-shaving to count the seconds. Another question is when start the clock, shall FIBA referees' straight arms do like clenching fist to start clock? Answer: The official signals to be used by FIBA for starting or stopping the clock are illustrated in the "Official Basketball Rules 2004", page 57. These signals, not the NBA signals or non-signals, are to be used in FIBA competition. FIBA does not use the "arm shaving" signal. Officials who use this signal in FIBA competition are using an unauthorized signal. As for stopping the clock, there are three possible signals in FIBA, depending on why the clock is being stopped: the open palm signal, following a violation; the clinched fist signal, following a foul; the jump ball situation signal which will be immediately followed by pointing toward the appropriate direction for an alternating possession throw-in.

 

5/4/2005	Ho Shuet Mei - ESTADOS UNIDOS
	Question: With respect to Qns 185. Does the reply apply to the throw-in at the endline after the last and only free throw is successfully made? Meaning the 'start' clock signal is not required in this instance except for the initial jumpball and throw-in after violation and non-shooting fouls. Answer: No. The "start clock" signal is used in these situations.

 

5/4/2005

jojoc - PHILIPPINES

Question: This is with regards question 186 when team A called three timeouts during the 1st half. This actually happened during a game with me as coach. I deliberately called 3 timeouts to see if I could get away with this infraction. After the buzzer sounded for the resumption of play, the referee approached me and said that he was going to whistle a bench technical for the infraction. I told the referee that I had asked the table officials if I could still call a timeout and they said yes. I asked the referee why he should penalize me when it was the fault of the table officials in granting me the timeout. The referee never issued a technical foul on me. I feel that he should have. Basketball is a game of progression. Let's say that I miss a layup shot during the first minute of the 1st quarter and we subsequently lose the game by 1 point. So do I now tell myself that had I converted that layup shot during the first quarter then we could have won the game? No. Much in the same way is the excess timeout called. The momentum could have shifted for the other team and the complexion of the game would have changed. What are your comments? Answer: FIBA rules does not provide for a technical foul if an additional time-out is requested. It is the responsibility of the scorer as well as the floor officials to know if a team has no time-outs remaining. If that team then requests a time-out, it is refused. As for a technical foul, a technical can be given at any time for unsportsmanlike conduct by the coach. If the coach argues the refusal to grant an additional time-out, that in itself could merit a technical foul depending on the coach's conduct.

 

5/4/2005

Ho Shuet Mei - ESTADOS UNIDOS

Question: With reference to Art 19.4.2. In the last two mins of fourth or extra period(s), two players from scoring team and 1 player from non-scoring team are waiting at the scorer's table to enter the game as substitution. When the scoring team successfully made a field goal, the official signal the players to proceed. Can both players from scoring team enter the game together? Do I assume 'A substitution' stated in the statement to mean an opportunity for substitution regardless of the number of scoring team players (2) is more than the non-scoring team player (1)? Answer: Your assumption is correct. Once the scoring team has made a substitution, then the opponents may also substitute and there is no limit to the number of players who may enter the game

 

5/2/2005

ramon fuentes - PHILIPPINES

Question: Remaining time in the 4th period is 0:10 seconds. Running Scores 123-122 in favors Team A. When player of Team B attempt field goal is successful, player Team A get the ball in-bound in the endline. When the ball at the disposal of player A3,B4 foul A2 while the ball is in the control of the in-bound player, shall the referee calls a foul to B4 while the ball is the control of the A3? Answer: It is at the discretion of the officials whether or not contact should be judged a foul. The official shall apply the same principles to the above situation as he/she would to contact at any time during the game. In simple terms, a foul should be called if it is the judgment of the official that the fouled team has been placed at a disadvantage by the contact, or if the official judges that the contact must be penalized to avoid additional rough play.

 

5/2/2005

R.MURALI - INDIA

Question: DURING THE STARTING JUMPBALL,TEAM-A DRIBLLES TO THE WRONG BASKET AND SCORES WHICH GOES UNNOTICED BY ALL CONCERNED( REF/TABLE/TEAMS,ETC).TEAM-B THEN USING THE ENDLINE THROW CONTINUES THE GAME AND WHEN THEY CROSS THE BACK COURT LINE,THE REFEREE THEN UNDERSTANDS THE SITUATION AND CALLS A BACK COURT VIOLATION.WHAT IS THE RULING AND THE FATE OF THE BASKET ERRONOUSLY SCORED BY TEAM-A. REGARDS MURALI - INDIA Answer: When the error of playing in the wrong direction is discovered, the referee shall interrupt play and change directions so as to have each team attacking the proper goal. Play shall then resume (in the proper direction) from that point. All points scored shall count for the team that scored them. In the specific instance given, it would be unfair and contrary to the spirit of the rules to charge a team with illegally returning the ball to the backcourt.

 

5/1/2005	jojo c - PHILIPPINES
	Question: What is the rule on calling time outs when there are none left? Team A called for its 3rd timeout in the 1st half. What should be the penalty? Answer: There is no "penalty". The time-out is simply not awarded.

 

5/1/2005

Ho Shuet Mei - SINGAPORE

Question: In the last two mins of the fourth and/or extra period(s), each field goal made will cause the game clock to stop. Is the official required to give the time-in signal during the throw-in? I noticed the two-persons officiating manual did not specially mention whether the official need to give the time-in signal during the last two mins of the fourth and/or extra period(s). Answer: Neither a "stop clock" or a "start clock" signal is required following a field goal during the final two minutes of play in a period.

 

4/26/2005

ramon fuentes - PHILIPPINES

Question: Question re: 3 second rule If a player A5 shot for a field goal and the ball does not hit the ring,while player A3 is in the restricted area for more than 3 seconds, player A3 rebounds get the ball a)dribble the ball within the restricted area and attempt for a shot b)attempt the ball for a shot. Shall the player A3 commits 3-seconds violation? Answer: The 3-second count ends when the ball is released on the attempt for the field goal because team control ends at this point (art. 26.1.1) . It begins again if a team A player gains control of the ball while that player or a teammate is in the restricted area.

 

4/24/2005

Marco Cordova - ESTADOS UNIDOS

Question: 1. How many players can be in the court at least per team? 2.if there is a player that has been fault out,can a team still play with four or three players? 3.please send me the fiba rules, the whole set. Answer: 1. Although a team may have as many as 12 members, only a maximum of five may participaye at a given time. 2. If there is a player that has been fault out,can a team still play with four or three players? (Answer) A team may continue to play with as few as two players. 3.Information on how to get a FIBA rule book may be obtained by contacting FIBA Americas at copaba@fibaamerica.com .

 

4/22/2005	jb - PHILIPPINES
	Question: the ball hits the ring after an attempt and bounces from the ring and is within the cylinder of the ring. can the player(offense and defense) touch the ball in that point?thanks in advance... Answer: In games played under FIBA rules, the answer is "Yes".

 

4/20/2005

jonathan perpeña - PHILIPPINES

Question: is there a new rule about jump ball? here in the philippines once a jump ball occurs, two rules are being used. i don't know which is right, the ball goes to the defensive team or it stays with the offensive team? hope you can enlighten me about this. Answer: The only jump ball is the one that begins the game. After that, all subsequent jump ball situations will result in a throw-in, called an "alternating possession throw-in". The first alternating possession throw-in will be awarded to the team that did not gain control of the ball following the jump ball that began the game. After that, teams will alternate receiving the ball in subsequent jump ball situations. This would include the throw-ins that begin all periods after the first period.

 

4/19/2005	SATO - JAPAN
	Question: If #5(team A) occured a technical foul after #6(team A) occured a personal foul(5 team fouls),team B gets 4 free throws and throw-in from center line. Is it true? Answer: Yes, provided the technical foul was the last foul to be committed.

 

4/18/2005

ramon fuentes - PHILIPPINES

Question: In the last two (2) minutes of 4th period or extra period. How many substitution is allowable to substitute from the non-scoring team, if in the case the other team may sustitute also and how many player is allowable? If the non-scoring team may substitute 4 players, how many players the other team can substitute? Answer: In substitution situations other than following a free throw(s), either team may substitute as many players as they wish.

 

4/14/2005	donna russo - ESTADOS UNIDOS
	Question: WHAT ARE THE RULES TO Cyprus basketball Answer: Basketball in Cyprus is played under FIBA rules. The federation's email address is bbfed.cy@cytanet.com.cy, or write to The Cyprus Basketball Federation, 9 Zenonos Kitieos Engomi, P.O.Box 22448, 1521 Nicosia.

 

4/11/2005

bong fuentes - PHILIPPINES

Question: Clarification re: Art. 8 in line with the interval of play during playing time. If there is a situation or infraction occurs during the interval of play, what specific penalty be awarded? Question: If a foul or technical foul occurs during the interval of play that team cause to the opposing team,what penalty shall be undertake? Answer: If a technical foul occurs during an interval of play other than before the 1st period, the following period will begin with two shots for the fouled team and possession of the ball for a throwin at the centre line extended opposite the scorer's table. The team entitled to the alternating posssession throw-in that would normally begin that period continues to be entitled to the next A.P. throw-in.

 

4/10/2005

hesham elhariri - EGYPT

Question: As result of good defense by team B the 24 second signal sounds while the ball in the air during a pass between team A players, team B catch the ball and control it immediately to have fast break. is it 24 violation and the referee shall stop the game to give team B the ball for throw in from out of bounds or give team B his advantage as result of his good defense. Answer: The proper procedure would be to allow play to continue without interruption. Players should respond to the officials' whistle, not the 24-second clock' s signal. If, however, the official judges that a team has been placed at a disadvantage by permitting the play to continue, that official has the power to interrupt the game and award a throw-in to the proper team.

 

4/9/2005

Johnny Mah - SINGAPORE

Question: Thank you for your answer at #173 with regard to the situation raised at #163. Please enlighten me with the same senario at #163, could the referee apply the power of Art 46.12 to revert the playing time whereby we have an existing rule Art 18 - Charge Time-out to solve the problem. Regards. Answer: As I suggested in the answer to # 163, it would not be fair to the officials involved if I were to suggest a definitive answer. The key rests in two principles of officiating. First, an official may never arbitrarily "set aside" a rule; second, the referee has the power to make a decision on any situation that is not covered by rule. In the latter instance, that referee's decision must be governed by the principle of fairness, with a view to not unfairly disadvantaging a team by the decision taken.

 

4/6/2005	jb - PHILIPPINES
	Question: Sir,good day to you. team A is in control of the ball in the backcourt. there is a defensive foul called. The shot clock will be reset. Question, is if the 8 sec count will be reset too? thank you very much and more power. Answer: Whenever the 24-second clock is re-set, a new 8-second count would also apply.

 

3/30/2005

Johnny Mah - SINGAPORE

Question: I am referring to Q#163 last paragraph, it appeared to me that the referee after consulting the technical commission reverted the playing time to when the 'so called' first time out was called. Question: Is there any Art in the FIBA Rules give the technical commission or the referee power to revert the playing time?? Is the decision made by them legal?? Is it correct to cancel off the subsequent foul and free throw just pretend nothing happen since the playing time been reverted?? Answer: There are precedents for all of these. The key is that the decision as to how to proceed rests with the referee. The referee can consult with the other official(s) and/or the commissioner, but the fact remains that it is the referee's decision to make. Obviously, the referee may not set aside or contravene another rule in the process. Fairness is the key.

 

3/30/2005

Brent Thielges - ESTADOS UNIDOS

Question: at the end of a game suppose a player throws a full court shot. As the ball is in the air time expires. If the ball bounces on the court and into the hoop does the basket count or is it a dead ball when the ball hits the floor? Answer: The ball becomes dead when it is clear to an official that the shot for a goal will not be successful. In your situation, once the ball falls below the level of the ring this would be the case.

 

3/28/2005

David - ESTADOS UNIDOS

Question: This is an supplemental question to Question #134 (rebounding your own missed attewmpt). What constututes a legitimate attempt at a try? How does a referee judge that a legitimate try has occurred? Does the ball need to be within a certain distance from the goal? Does the ball have to be above the shooter's head to be consider legitimate? What are the guidelines that referees are taught on this subject? Thank you, Answer: The guidelines are basically determined by common sense and rest totally on the judgement of the official. If the official judges that the ball was released in an attempt to score a field goal, then it is a shot for a goal. It continues to be a shot for a goal until, in the judgement of the official, the ball no longer has a chance of being successful.

 

3/27/2005	robert boldt - ESTADOS UNIDOS
	Question: Regarding equipment, has the radius of the basketball rim been changed in the last 50 years in men's basketball? Answer: The width and height of the basket has remained unchanged, certainly for the last fifty years. FIBA took the lead from the equipment being used in the United States when it adopted the 18 inch basket, ten feet above the floor, in its inaugural rules (1932, Geneva).

 

3/24/2005

Ho Shuet Mei - SINGAPORE

Question: Team A has control of the ball. The ball is above the ring other than on a shot for field goal. Meaning A4 passes to A5 and happens the ring is below the flight of the pass near the end line. B4 contact the ball by reaching thru the basketball. A violation is called under Art 13.2.2. Team A is awarded a throw-in. Shall the 24-sec shot clock be reset? Does this situation fall under Art 50.2, Bullet 4? If answer to either or both questions is 'Yes', why? I can only recall situations where the 24-sec shot clock is reset when the ball is deliberately kick or block with any part of the leg. Does it cover striking the ball with a fist? If the answer is 'Yes', does it imply striking with fist and touching the ball in the above situation face the same penalty? Which is to reset the 24-sec shot clock? Answer: FIBA has made no statement or official interpretation regarding this situation. Therefore, what I am about to provide in an unofficial interpretation only. If a breach of article 13.2.1 occurs, there will be a reset of the 24-second clock (and the 8-second clock, if applicable). This is justified by pointing out that the ball did not become dead as the result of one of the situations listed in articles 28.2.2 and 50.4. A breach of article 13.2.2, though far less likely than a kicking or punching of the ball, would also cause the ball to become dead immediately for a reason not listed in 50.4. Therefore it would also seem consistent to reset the 24-second clock in this situation.

 

3/24/2005

Ho Shuet Mei - SINGAPORE

Question: I wish to seek clarification on a situation in relation to status of the ball (Art 10). A3 releases a shot for field goal. The ball is within the basket when A1 contacts the ball. Shall we consider the shot made is good since it is within the basket (Art 16.1.1) and awards two/three points (Art 16.2.1) to Team A depending where A3 released the ball? Shall the ball becomes dead since a field goal is made (Art 10.3, Bullet 1) as described above? Does it mean Art 31.2.4 does not apply since the ball is within the basket? Argument is one cannot commit an interference when the ball is dead. Answer: Yes. The offensive team cannot commit interference after the ball has entered the basket. Shall the ball becomes dead since a field goal is made (Art 10.3, Bullet 1) as described above? (Answer) Yes Does it mean Art 31.2.4 does not apply since the ball is within the basket? Answer) Article 31.2.4, third bullet, applies only to a defensive player. A team A player's touching the ball doesn't cause the ball to become dead in this situation. If a team B player were to touch it, however, this would cause the ball to become dead immediately and interference would occur. Argument is one cannot commit an interference when the ball is dead.

 

3/23/2005

bong fuentes - PHILIPPINES

Question: What are the New Changes in Mechanics of referees manual 2004. I have some question raises about the positioning or switching of Trail & Lead official. 1. B5 commits a foul to A4 while is in the act of shooting the attempt is successful & awarded two free throws to A4. The Trail calls a foul to B5 & after administer the successful field goal, player foul & one free throw awarded to A4. The Trail who calls a foul shall be the new Lead official & responsible to administer the awarded free throw & the Lead who is at the endline shall be the new Trail official. It is correct to exchange their position? 2. In the area of responsibility of Lead offcial zone 5. There is a foul committed by B2 to A2. Lead offcial blows his whistle to call a foul after administer the player foul to scorers table. The Lead who calls a foul will remain his position & administer a throw-into team A & also the Trail remains his position. It is correct to remain in their respective positions? If team B is in the penalty situation who will be administer the two free throw awarde to A2? Shall the Trail become the new Lead & administer two free throw & the Lead become the new Trail official? 3. B5 is in the act of shooting & fouoled by A5, the ball does not hit the ring. The Trail who made a call that the foul happens in his area of responsibility zine 6. After administer to the scorers table the player foul & free throw awarde to B5. The Lead who is at the endline will exchange position to trail official. It is correct mechanics of the oficials? The trail official who become the new Lead offcial will be responsible for the administion of two free throw? 4. A5 while dribbling the ball commits an offensive foul to B4. The trail official blows his whistle that the offensive foul happens in his area of responsibilty zone 3. After administer the player foul to the scorers table, The Lead offcial who is at the endline wil be the new trail official & administer a throw-in to team B where the nearest foul occurs? Answer: All of these questions can be answered with one simple mechanic: the official who calls the foul will become (or continue to be) the trail official when play resumes, whether for a free throw or for a throw-in.

 

3/22/2005

Tom Paddick - ESTADOS UNIDOS

Question: Player from team A and player from team B are both going for a loose ball. Player A has complete control of the ball before he is going out of bounds and throws the ball at or to player from team B. Player from team B is standing completely out of bounds, with both feet when the ball either hits him in the leg (or he catches it). Im not sure that makes a difference, if he catches it or it hits him. The key point is: one player is totally in bounds and throws the ball to or off of the opponent who is completely out of bounds. Who does the ball go to: Player A who was in bounds and threw it at player B. Player B who was hit/or caught the ball from player A while standing completely out of bounds. Your assistance is appreciated. Can you site the rule? Answer: A throw-in is awarded to team A. If the ball goes out-of-bounds as the result of touching a player (in this case, the team B player) who is touching the out-of-bounds, than that player is deemed to have caused it to go out-of-bounds.

 

3/22/2005

Oscar - ESTADOS UNIDOS

Question: A team lead only one point but a personal foul was called after the match .it is too loudy that both referees can not hear the ring.The table officals insist that the time left 0.3 second although the reply show that the foul-call was after the match clearly.How is the judge? PS:if the foul-called was sure,B team would get 2 free-throws and B team had the chance to win the game. Answer: The referee will determine whether the foul occurred before the game ended. If the referee chooses, he/she may consult with the scorekeeper, timer commissioner or other table officials but it is the referee who will make the final decision. (Article 46.11)

 

3/21/2005

Ho Shuet Mei - SINGAPORE

Question: I referred to Qn .157. The official who calls a foul shall become the new trail official. The answer to question asked before Art 7.6 should be 'Yes' instead of 'No. Is it correct? For easy reference, the question extracted from Qn. 157: - b) If a defensive foul is called by the Lead official. Shall the Lead & Trail official exchange (switch) their position? If the defensive foul is called by the Trail Official, he will remain as Trail official based on the second statement made in first para above. Answer: Yes. This mechanic applies to all foul situations, not just those where free throws are involved.

 

3/21/2005

Alvin - SINGAPORE

Question: In a close fight match with less than 15 seconds remaining in the fourth period, a personal foul was called on a defending player. Both teams are in foul trouble. Defending team (Team B) is leading by one point. Another defending player on the court signaled to his coach to ask for a time-out quickly. The umpire signaled two free throws to be taken and bounced the ball to the free throw shooter. The coach of the defending team (Team B) requested for a time-out after the first free throw was taken. Both free throws were successful. The new defending team (Team A) is leading by one point. The game resumed with a throw-in at the end line by the new attacking team (Team B) after the successful free throws. Team A intercepted the ball in their backcourt to start a fast break. During the transition, Team B committed a personal foul with 3.5 seconds remaining. Team B coach questioned why his request for time-out not granted and maintained his request was made before the ball was handled to the free throw shooter as described at the top. The referee consulted Technical Commissioner and Team B appealed successfully. Table officials were faulted for not granting the time-out to Team B. The remaining game clock was reverted to the time where the first personal foul was called. The two free throw made was canceled. Team A refused to play on as they felt that they are placed in a disadvantage position with that decision made. What is the ruling? Answer: The rule is very clear. In order for the time out to be granted, it must have been requested before the ball was placed at the disposal of the free throw shooter for the first free throw. After that, a time-out could not be awarded until after the clock had again started and subsequently been stopped (unless a foul occurred during the free throws or a violation occurred on the final free throw). The coach ideally should have communicated his/her objection (and the decision should ideally have been made) before the game clock again started; that was the first error. At the same time, team A's refusal to play was in itself an error in judgement. The proper thing to do would have been to complete the game and then, if team A wished to do so, protest the outcome and leave the decision to the proper authorities as per Protest Procedure, Appendix C, Official Basketball Rules.

 

3/20/2005

Ho Shuet Mei - ESTADOS UNIDOS

Question: During a match, both officials blown their whistles simultaneously for action happening in zone 5 after the free-throw line. The trail official called for travelling violation while the lead official called for a personal foul. With reference to 2-man officiating (mechanic) manual under section 4.1 (Officiating Techniques), the one who is nearest to the play will normally take the call. However, it is quite difficult to determine who is nearest to the play as both officials penetrated when the ball moved into the paint. Questions:- a) Both officials made different calls (one is travelling violation and the other is foul). Can we ignore the personal foul and accept the travelling violation since trail official has the best angle of vision if we follow section 4.3 and with understand of the primary duties of the trail official (after diagram 43)? And the trail official indicated his whistle sounded slightly ahead of lead official. b) If the lead official maintained that his whistle is slightly earlier than the trail official, shall the personal foul overwrite the travelling violation disregarding the fact that the trail official generally has the best angle of vision in calling travelling violation? c) If we read section 4.5 and understanding the primary role of lead official, he will watch for any action in the restricted area including any drive to the basket. Does it mean the personal foul can't be ignored since he is watching the play directly around the ball? d) If we put both (a) and (c) together, there is a contention who is to take the call as both can blow their whistle for items listed under their primary duties. How may we resolve this complication? Answer: The official toward whom the play is coming will normally make the call. If there is a disagreement, the officials shall immediately confer. This should be a major part of the pre-game conference. What usually will happen is that the "off" official will not insist on a different judgement unless he/she is certain the responsible official failed to see something because he/she was straight-lined. If this does happen, the responsible official should yield to the "off" official immediately. The important thing is that the pre-game conference establish between the two officials exactly how to handle the situation if it arises. b) If the lead official maintained that his whistle is slightly earlier than the trail official, shall the personal foul overwrite the travelling violation disregarding the fact that the trail official generally has the best angle of vision in calling travelling violation? c) If we read section 4.5 and understanding the primary role of lead official, he will watch for any action in the restricted area including any drive to the basket. Does it mean the personal foul can't be ignored since he is watching the play directly around the ball? (Answer) The procedure outlined in the answer to (a) applies. d) If we put both (a) and (c) together, there is a contention who is to take the call as both can blow their whistle for items listed under their primary duties. How may we resolve this complication? (Answer) Again, the answer to (a) applies.

 

3/20/2005

bong fuentes - PHILIPPINES

Question: Clarification re: Ref's Manual 2-Person Officiating 1. An offensive is called by a Trail Official. Shall the Trail Official administer the throw-in for opposing Team? 2. Trail Official calls a foul in the act of shooting of A3 & field goal is successful. Shall the Trail Official administer one free-throw awarded to A3? 3. Lead Official calls afoul of B2 to A2 in Area 4. Shall the Lead Official administer a throw-in to Team A at the endline? 4. Trail Official calls a foul in the act of shooting of B2 & field goal is not successful. Shall the Trail Official administer two free-throw awarded to B2? Answer: 1. The official who called the foul will become (or continue to be) the trail official when play resumes. If the throw-in is at a place where the trail is responsible for administration, the answer is "yes". 2. Trail Official calls a foul in the act of shooting of A3 & field goal is successful. Shall the Trail Official administer one free-throw awarded to A3? (Answer) Yes. 3. Lead Official calls afoul of B2 to A2 in Area. Shall the Lead Official administer a throw-in to Team A at the endline? (Answer) Yes. 4. Trail Official calls a foul in the act of shooting of B2 & field goal is not successful. Shall the Trail Official administer two free-throw awarded to B2? (Answer) Yes.

 

3/17/2005

bong fuentes - PHILIPPINES

Question: Team A is in the alternating possession throw-in. During the alternating possession throw-in of A5 to A6, B1 intercepts and gain control of the ball. Shall the alternating possession arrow reverse to Team B considering the about situation? Answer: This situation is covered by the alternating possession rule. The arrow is changed when the ball touches a player in the court on the throw-in, regardless of which player it touches (12.4.5).

 

3/16/2005

Teresa Rose - ESTADOS UNIDOS

Question: In a recent game this situation occured. My player was defending a side out.The offensive player passed the ball in,my defender tipped the ball and it went back to the offensive player coming in from out of bounds on the court and he caught the ball in bounds. The referee allowed the play to stand.Was the ruling correct? Answer: Provided the player who made the throw-in had re-established himself/herself in-bounds before receiving the ball, the action is legal.

 

3/15/2005	Belgharek Sami - TUNISIA
	Question: What is the best way for referees to count the 5 or 8 seconds:Finger by finger or with the all opening hand. Answer: Use the open hand in a "wrist flick" motion at waist level.

 

3/14/2005

bong fuentes - PHILIPPINES

Question: In the ref's manual 2-person officiating. which regards to 7.4 Switching after a fouls. May question is; a)If an offensive foul is called by the trail official. Shall the Lead & Trail official exchange (switch) their position? b)If a defensive foul is called by the Lead official. Shall the Lead & Trail official exchange (switch) their position? 7.6 Foul & successful field goal. May question is;a)If a Trail official calls a foul & basket count. Shall the Trail & Lead official exchange their (switch) position? 7.8 Positioning of Officials after a foul. May question is;a)If a Lead official calls a foul by a defensive player in his area. Shall the Lead official remains his position? b) If a Trail official calls a foul by a defensive player on an opponent in the act of shooting. The attempt is not successful. Shall the Trail official remains his position? Answer: Yes. The official who calls the foul shall become the new trail official when play resumes. b)If a defensive foul is called by the Lead official. Shall the Lead & Trail official exchange (switch) their position? (Answer) No. 7.6 Foul & successful field goal. May question is;a)If a Trail official calls a foul & basket count. Shall the Trail & Lead official exchange their (switch) position? (Answer) This will depend on who committed the foul: the offense or the defense. If the foul was committed by the defense, the answer is "No" because the ball will return to the offensive team for a throw-in and the play will continue in the same direction. If the foul was committed by the offense, the answer is "Yes". The principle remains consistent: the official who calls the foul becomes (or continues to be) the trail official when play resumes. 7.8 Positioning of Officials after a foul. May question is;a)If a Lead official calls a foul by a defensive player in his area. Shall the Lead official remains his position? (Answer) No. The lead official will become the trail when play resumes. b) If a Trail official calls a foul by a defensive player on an opponent in the act of shooting. The attempt is not successful. Shall the Trail official remains his position? (Answer) Yes.

 

3/6/2005	Gary Westman - ESTADOS UNIDOS
	Question: My question is when shooting a free throw, after the shooter is handed the ball by referee can a lane violation be called on the shooter before they release the ball? Answer: A violation could be called against the shooter for taking too long before releasing the free throw, for faking a free throw or for leaving the semi-circle in attempting the free throw.

 

3/3/2005

bong fuentes - PHILIPPINES

Question: Q#1.I would like to reiterate your answer in my question #121 de 123. If a Team violates the possession of the ball & the other violates Team control foul. Then a jumpball situation occurs. Why it is the Alternating Possession Arrow shall not apply considering the about situation? Q#2.There is a double whistle bet the trail & lead officials. The trail calls a foul & lead calls a 3-second violation.Ruling? Answer: This is not a jump ball situation (Article 12.3, 6th bullet) because a team was in control of the ball or entitled to control before the first foul or violation. Therefore, the rule that is used in returning the ball to play is 42.2.7, second bullet. Q#2.There is a double whistle bet the trail & lead officials. The trail calls a foul & lead calls a 3-second violation.Ruling?(Answers) This is the type of situation that should always be discussed the the pre-game conference. Normally the official who is closest to the play (or the official toward whom the play is coming) will take the call. If necessary, the two officials can immediately confer but unless the official farthest from the play (or from whom the play is moving ) is certain he/she has seen something that the other official could not see, he/she should yield to his/her partner's judgement.

 

3/2/2005	cranston - BAHAMAS
	Question: should a time out garnted to a team that just turn over the ball?(game clock is stop). Answer: If the ball has been "turned over", then a foul or a violation must have occurred. Either team may request and be granted a time-out.

 

3/2/2005

HSU - TAIWAN

Question: We all know when "ball return to the backcourt" occured, the referee shall award a throw-in to the other team in its front-court; besides that team shouldn't throw the ball to its back-court. However; if the violation took place on the center line, how shall the offiaial deal with it? Shall the throw-in be taken in non-violation team's back-court? The center line doesn't belong to either team's front-court, but their back-court. Answer: The centre line is part of the back court. Therefore the resulting throw-in shall take place in the throwing-in team's front court, near the centre line.

 

3/2/2005

bong fuetnes - PHILIPPINES

Question: 1. It is allowable that the coach and assistant coach are both remain standing during the progress of the game? 2. The 1st Team named in the programmed is team A. Team A own's basket is in the leftside of the Scorer's table. In what basket that the team A begin their pre-game or warm-ups? Own basket or Opponent basket? Answer: 1. No. 2. The 1st Team named in the programmed is team A. Team A own's basket is in the leftside of the Scorer's table. In what basket that the team A begin their pre-game or warm-ups? Own basket or Opponent basket? (Answer) They will attack the opponents' basket during the first half and therefore will warm up at that basket.

 

2/28/2005

LJ - ESTADOS UNIDOS

Question: At the end of a game, the score is tied. After the time expires a coach gets a technical foul. Does the other team get to shoot two and if made the game is over, or do you shoot two and then tip off and start the overtime period with a 2 point lead? Answer: The technical foul has occurred during an interval of play. The free throws and possession resulting from the technical foul shall be awarded to begin the overtime period and the overtime shall be played. The team entitled to the next alternating possession shall continue to be so entitled when play begins.

 

2/27/2005

Ho Shuet Mei - SINGAPORE

Question: Dear Sir, Appreciate if you can enlighten us on this case. With reference to the Example 1 for Statement 1 for Art 42 (Special Situation) in Interpretation Paper 2004. A4 attempts a jump shot for a field goal. While the ball is in the air, the 24-sec shot signal sounds. After that signal sounded, B4 committed an unsportmanlike foul on A4 while he is still in the air. The ball missed the ring. The unsportmanlike foul cannot be ignored. Based on Art 42.2.4, The right to possession of the ball as part of the last penalty still to be administrated shall cancel any prior rights to possession of the ball. My query: 1) Shouldn't the unsportmanlike foul come after the 24-sec shot clock violation since the 24-sec device signal sounded before the foul is called though its end result is after the foul is committed? Based on the sequence of events, the throw-in for 24-sec violation is over-ruled by the throw-in for the unsportmanlike foul. Team A will then have the throw-in since it is the last penalty to be administrated. Is this correct? 2) If the unsportmanlike foul occurred just before the 24-sec device signal (almost the same timing), am I right to say the call will cause a dead ball situation. Therefore the 24-sec shot clock violation is disregarded since the ball is dead. Team A is awarded two or three free throws and the throw-in from the centre extension line opposite the scorer table. Answer: The 24-second violation does not occur until the ball misses the ring on the shot for a goal. If the ball were to touch the ring, then no violation would occur. Therefore, in the situation cited the foul occurs before the 24-second violation. When penalties are then administered, the foul penalty will precede the violation penalty. The possibility of the violation occurring before the foul, though unlikely, would mean that the order of the penalty would be reversed and the possession penalty (the first penalty to then be administered) would be canceled.

 

2/25/2005

Walter - ESTADOS UNIDOS

Question: A1 take a shot to the basket and ball lodges on the basket support, the arrow is pointing possesion for team A. Does the throw in should be make from the end line and a new 24 seconds? Answer: Neither team was in control of the ball at the time the ball lodges between the basket ring and backboard. Also, the 24-second count would have ended when the ball touched the ring on the shot. Team A shall be awarded a throw-in on the endline with a new 24-second period.

 

2/24/2005

HSU - TAIWAN

Question: I have a question about screening. In the rule 33.3 (Legal guard position), the defensive player must face his opponent, and has both feet on the floor. Does the player who sets legal screen have to face his opponent? Are rule 33.5(guarding aplayer who does not control the ball) and rule 33.7(screening) different or the same? Answer: A player who screens will normally set the screen while facing the player being screened but this is not required under article 33.7. The screening rule indeed has much in common with the "guarding a player without the ball" rule. More important in judging responsibility for the foul, however, are the restrictions covered under article 33.7, "legal" amd "illegal "screening.

 

2/22/2005

Ricardo B. Lumasag - SAUDI ARABIA

Question: - Inbound throw in situation - A4 inbound to A5, on this situation it was tap by B4 causing the ball goes out of bound and directly hit A4 who is still in out of bounce my question is; Who will be the last touch in this situation. Thanks and God Bless you Ric B. Lumasag Bupa Middle East Basketball Referee's Group Jeddah (BRG) Answer: A violation has been committed by A4 because the ball has gone out-of-bounds as a result of having touched him/her.

 

2/21/2005

bong fuentes - PHILIPPINES

Question: 1. I would like to reiterate your answer to my question #121. as you have said that A2 voilation is possession of the ball for Team B & B4 foul as Team control foul. This creates a jumpball situation. Why it is resulting for a throw-in for Team A? Shall the alternating possession arrow will not apply considering that both Teams violates possesion of the ball? 2. There is a double whistle called by the trail & lead officials. The trail call for a foul committed by B9 & lead call for a 3-second violation by A6. Ruling? 3. A7 pass a ball to his teammates and B4 touch the ball as a result ball goes out-of-bounds. The offcial award the direction of play to Team B, suddenly, the official realize awarded in wrong direction of play then he correct his mistake & award the throw-in for team A. Ruling? 4. In What situation shall the trail & lead official exchange their position? How many situation do they have? Answer: (Answer) This is not a jump ball situation. See article 12.3, bullet 6.Why it is resulting for a throw-in for Team A? Shall the alternating possession arrow will not apply considering that both Teams violates possesion of the ball? 2. There is a double whistle called by the trail & lead officials. The trail call for a foul committed by B9 & lead call for a 3-second violation by A6. Ruling? (Answer) The nearest official to the play (or the official toward whom the play is coming) will take the call. The other official will yield to his/her partner unless he/she is sure the partner was unable to see something because of being blocked out. 3. A7 pass a ball to his teammates and B4 touch the ball as a result ball goes out-of-bounds. The offcial award the direction of play to Team B, suddenly, the official realize awarded in wrong direction of play then he correct his mistake & award the throw-in for team A. Ruling? (Answer) Once the clock has started following the error, that error cannot be corrected. This is a clear case of the official not paying any attention to what he/she is doing. 4. In What situation shall the trail & lead official exchange their position? How many situation do they have? (Answer) The easiest answer is this: whenever a foul is called, the official who calls the foul shall become (or continue to be) the trail official when play resumes.

 

2/21/2005	richard leahey - FRANCE
	Question: could u email me the differences in european basketball rules and usa basketball rules needed for a culture class at cazenovia college central new york state. Rules and court dimentions would really be appreciated thanks richard leahey Answer: Try going to the following: www.members.shaw.ca/jazzace/ace/hoop/ask_ace.html .

 

2/20/2005

Alessio - ITALY

Question: I need a little clarification on art. 49.2, second bullet, where it says: "The twenty-four second device signal sounds while a team is in control of the ball". Does it mean that the timekeeper must stop the game clock immediately on the 24 seconds device signal if the ball is being held by a player or passed between teammates? Shouldn't he wait for an official to blow his whistle? Answer: The timekeeper shall stop the clock when the 24-second signal sounds as in 49.2. When the official hears the 24-second device sound, he/she should blow the whistle as well, but it is quite conceivable that neither official will hear the device because of excessive noise. If it should be that the officials do not hear the shot clock signal, the timer will stop the game clock anyway and then do whatever is necessary to get the attention of the officials.

 

2/20/2005

Bruce Le Beau - ESTADOS UNIDOS

Question: The ball is in the front court of the team A. Player A1 throws the ball back to player A2 who is in the air in the back court. The ball passes the center line,player A2 still in the air catches the ball and lands in the front court with both feet. Is this a back court violation? Thanks Answer: Yes. The fact that the ball "passes the centre line" is of no consequence. If A2 jumps from the backcourt and catches the ball while in the air, the violation has occurred. A player who is airborne has the same status (relative to the floor) as when he/she was last touch.hing the floor.

 

2/19/2005

jb - PHILIPPINES

Question: Final period with the score 75-74 in the favor of team A. 4 secs remaining in the period. B1 has possession of the ball clear path to the basket(all alone in the fastbreak situation). when he is about to shot for a lay-up there is a power interuption. how will resume the game?thanks in advance... Answer: Article 46.12 gives the referee the power to make this decision based on what he/she sees as the fairest path to take. In a situation such as this (as unlikely as it is that it might happen), it is impossible to make a decision which will please everyone

 

2/18/2005

Tom - ESTADOS UNIDOS

Question: when a player in bounds a ball after a made field goal or free throw he can move back and forth along the baseline. He also can throw to another player out of bounds along the baseline. Can the 2nd player who receives a pass out of bounds from the 1st player also move freely along the out of bounds baseline? Answer: Yes. The only restriction is that the pass to an inbounds player must be eventually released before a total of five seconds has elapsed.

 

2/17/2005

chen - TAIWAN

Question: Question: When a player make a three point field goal, and the ball is in the air. The other player who jump from two point field goal area touch the ball before it enter the basket. Shall the field goal count two or three point? Answer: Two points are awarded ==== My question is: Which rule applies to this answer ? Answer: Article 11 defines the location of a player relative to the 2-point or 3-point area. Article 16 establishes the value of a goal, depending on whether it (or the shooter or defender) last touched the ball in the 2-point or 3-point area. In the unlikely situation when a shot for a goal from the 3-point area might fall short of the basket and strike the floor before then bouncing into the basket, the goal would count only 2 points because it the ball had last touched the 2-point area. This is exactly what happens if a defender leaps from the 2-point area and touches the ball on a shot that has been released from the 3-point area. Because the defender was last touching the 2-point area before leaving the floor, and because the ball was then touched by that defender, then the status of the shot for a goal changes from a 3-point to a 2-point attempt.

 

2/16/2005

bong fuetnes - PHILIPPINES

Question: I would like 2 enlightened in question #61 Art. 9.4. A teams "own" basket is the basket w/c a Team is defending; Teh "opponents" basket is the basket a Teams attacks. The first Team named in the programme (home team) is let say Team A. At the beginning of the 1st Quarter it is correct application that Team A jumper is facing the opponents basket w/c is in rightside of scorers table facing the playing court? During the progess of the game shall Team A defense their own basket facing their own Team Bench area and attacks the opponents basket facing their opponent Team Bench area? Answer: When facing the court from the direction of the scorer's table, a team's own basket is to the left of the table and the opponents' basket is to the right of the scorer's table. Team A (always the home team in case situations) sits to the left of the scorer's table and during the first half attacks the basket that is to the right of the scorer's table. The reverse is true for the opponents. Teams exchange baskets (not benches) for the second half. If both coaches agree before the game, it is permissible to exchange the assigned benches or the assigned baskets (or both).

 

2/14/2005	hsu - TAIWAN
	Question: In the begging of the first period(jump ball), if a foul occur before the jumpper touch the ball, how the officials to deal with it? And how to resume the game? Answer: The foul is penalized as having happened during an interval of play. Two free throws are awarded, after which the jump ball shall be repeated.

 

2/14/2005	leonilyn perez - PHILIPPINES
	Question: A4 dribbling the ball at his backcourt basket while A5 is at the restricted area in his frontcourt basket and remain more than 3 seconds. shall the lead official calls a 3 seconds violation to A5 while the ball is in the backcourt dribble by A4? Answer: A 3-second violation cannot occur unless a team has control of the ball in its front court.

 

2/11/2005

John Danahy - ESTADOS UNIDOS

Question: Inbounding the ball. You have 5 seconds to get the ball inbounds but must it touch a player or just throw it in. Players will let the ball run for several seconds before oicking it up to conserve the clock. Also is it true you cannot call timeout after the 4th second. Answer: A thrower-in must release the ball on the inbounds pass before 5 seconds has passed. Once the ball has been released, the players on the court can wait as long as they want to touch the ball. The game clock will not start until the ball is touched.

 

2/11/2005

Collyer Cronk - ESTADOS UNIDOS

Question: Junior High 8th grade basketball game ends in regulation (no time left on clock) in a tie. After the clock has expired the referee calls a technical foal on one of the coaches. He sends a player to the free throw line for 2 shots. He makes second of two and calls the game for a one point victory. ISN'T THIS GAME SUPPOSED TO GO INTO THE OVERTIME PERIOD? Answer: Assuming the horn sounded to end the period, the overtime period must be played.

 

2/10/2005

tony lonng - ESTADOS UNIDOS

Question: my friend and i have a friendly bet about a recent rule change in NBA, NCAA,and HIGH school basketball...please help there is a dollar involved. the questions is; what the rule, if an offensive player attempts a layup and misses everything. and gets their own rebound, is the player allowed to attempt another shot, dribble, or is it concidered a travel. thanks for your help. Answer: Provided the officials judge that a legitimate attempt at a shot for a goal has taken place, the player may retrieve the rebound with impunity.

 

2/10/2005

jim raposa - ESTADOS UNIDOS

Question: Offensive player "A" takes a jump shot off the dribble, for all intents and purposes, from a standing position (i.e. not a drive to the basket). Defensive player "B", near player "A", turns and faces the basket in anticipation of a rebound. Player "A" lands at least 2 feet from where he took his shot and complains because player "B" occupies the place where "A" is trying to "land". Is player "B" guilty of a foul? Answer: Player "B" is in a legal position and is entitled to that spot on the floor. Provided he/she has established his/her position before "A" left the floor, "B" is not responsible for the contact.

 

2/10/2005

bong fuentes - PHILIPPINES

Question: Question #1 Player A1 pass the ball to his teammate in Area #3 before A3 receive the ball B6 touch the ball as a result of Ball out-of-bounds in sideline area of Lead Officials and administer the direction of play to Team B without the assistant to Trail Official. Shall the correctible error apply? Question #2 Team A Shot for a field goal,when the ball enter the basket,A3 foul B4 it occurs simultaneuosly.Team A is in penalty situaton. How the game resume? Answer: 1. Awarding a throw-in to the incorrect team is not one of the correctable errors. In the unlikely situation where this happens, it cannot be changed once the throw-in ends. Such a situation would be an excellent example to an official who simply wasn't paying sufficient attention to what he/she was doing. 2. By rule, nothing happens "simultaneously" . The officials must judge what happened first and penalize accordingly. In any case, count the field goal (the foul will not cause the ball to become dead) and penalize the A3 foul.

 

2/9/2005	Alessio - ITALY
	Question: What happens if the 24 second signal sounds just when an official calls a jump ball situation and the arrow is pointing in the direction of the team that was in control of the ball? Answer: The official must judge what happened first: the jump ball situation or the 24-second violation. If the 24-second violation occurred first, then there