Basketball is often classified as a noncontact sport, but try telling that to anyone who has tried to get a rebound. There is plenty of contact--especially when neither side has possession of the ball. However, if the offensive team is attacking, no player can foul the man with the ball or prevent anyone else from trying to get open. Additionally, there are a number of violations that will give possession to the opponent.
Shooting Fouls
Any player who puts his hand on or bumps the shooter is called for a personal foul. If the shooter makes the shot from the field, he is awarded one free throw. If he missed the shot, he gets two or three free throws (if the shot was a three-pointer). In professional basketball, if a team commits five fouls in one quarter, it puts the other team in the bonus. The team in the bonus situation will shoot free throws on any defensive foul whether the player was shooting or not.
Offensive Fouls
Offensive players may not make contact with a defender to get open or to give themselves a clear path to the basket. If the player dribbling the ball initiates contact with the defender, he will be called for charging and the defending team will get possession of the ball. The player will be charged with a personal foul. An offensive player may screen an opponent by getting in his way and preventing him from defending the shooter. However, the screener must keep his feet set. If he moves his feet and makes contact with the defender, he is charged with a personal foul.
Violations
Players and teams can be called for violations that are not fouls. If the offensive team commits a violation, the defensive team gets the ball. Defensive violations are much rarer, but they do occur. Defensive violations result in the offensive team getting the ball out of bounds with a renewed shot clock. Common violations include traveling, out of bounds, double dribble, kicking the ball, backcourt violation and a three-second lane violation.
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