The Special Olympics are an opportunity for individuals with disabilities to compete in competitive activities like basketball. Due to players' limitations, some basketball rules may be adapted and changed at the discretion of the manager overseeing the competition. If you're a Special Olympics coach, player or volunteer, learning the rules of basketball can help you better understand the game.
Court And Equipment Rules
The Special Olympics uses adapted equipment to accommodate the different playing abilities of participants. For example, a smaller ball -- measuring 28.5 inches in circumference and weighing 18-20 oz. -- may be used for women's and junior divisions. While a regular basketball goal stands 10 feet off the ground, the goal may be lowered to 8 feet according to the discretion of the competition manager.
Game Play Rules
A normal high school basketball game lasts four quarters of eight minutes each, while a college game consists of two 20-minute halves. The length of a Special Olympics basketball game is up to the competition manager, depending on the skill level of players involved. Players may not double dribble the basketball.
Traveling
Players are allowed to take two steps beyond the normal travel, except when doing so creates a significant advantage, such as escaping the defense or scoring a basket. A violation shall be called immediately when such an advantage happens. FIBA rules are used to govern all other game play rules for regular Special Olympics competition basketball.
Half-Court Basketball
To help accommodate players with lower skill levels and help allow more teams to compete, the Special Olympics allows players to compete in a half-court game consisting of two teams of three players each. The half-court game is played for 20 minutes or until one team scores 20 points. Teams change possession on a made basket. If a player is fouled in the act of shooting, the team is credited with the basket and also receives the ball for another possession. No free throws are used during the game.
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