Basketball is one if not the most rule governed sport. It can be challenging for someone who has never played or even watched a basketball game to learn and understand the rules. By knowing the rules of basketball you will have a better understanding when watching a game and could lead to a future passion or hobby.
Out of Bounds
The court is marked in the shape of a rectangle. Players in possession of the ball must stay inbounds with their whole body. If a player steps out of bounds with the ball, possession is given to the other team.
Walking
The basic premise of basketball relies on this rule. Players are not allowed to move unless dribbling the basketball. If they are not dribbling they must keep one foot established in the same spot (called a pivot foot). The only exception to walking occurs when a player is moving toward the basket, in which case a player may take two steps without dribbling. The player must then shoot or pass the ball. If not he will be called for a walk.
Double Dribble
Double dribbling occurs one of two ways. A player may only dribble the ball using one hand at a time (can alternate hands). If a player uses two hands before the ball bounces once, it is called a double dribble. Once a player begins dribbling and stops he may not resume dribbling until passing the ball to another player or the defender deflects the ball. If he begins dribbling again it is also called double dribbling.
5 Second Inbounds
A team has 5 seconds to inbound the ball. The inbound player will have to keep his feet set if from a dead ball but can move his feet if the player is inbounding after an opposing team's made basket. If a player is unable to inbound the ball in 5 seconds, a violation is called and possession is given to the opponent. A team can call a timeout if having trouble getting the ball in, but must do so prior to the 5-second count.
Goaltending
Goaltending can occur both on an offensive and defensive player. Players are unable to touch the basketball while it is within the cylinder of the basket. Players are also unable to put their hand through the cylinder at any time. Goaltending is also called if a defensive player impedes (blocks) the ball on its downward motion toward the basket or after the ball has touched the backboard. If an offensive player is called for goaltending, the basket (if made) is disallowed and possession is given to the opponent. If a defensive player is called, the basket will count regardless.
Backcourt
Once a team crosses the midcourt line, they may not proceed back across it unless retrieving a ball deflected by an opponent.
Fouls
There are many fouls that can be called. Typical defensive fouls include reaching, blocking, pushing, illegal contact and over the back. Some offensive fouls include charging, moving screen and pushing off a defender. In some leagues fouls are limited for both teams and players. Players over the foul limit will be unable to continue playing (typically five fouls). Teams over the foul limit will allow their opponent to shoot free throws. Shooting fouls may also occur if a defensive player fouls an offensive player in the act of shooting the ball. This will also result in shooting free throws.
Technical Fouls
In most leagues, technical fouls are used to monitor the integrity and sportsmanship of the game. Technical fouls can be called on either team's players, coaches, bench (substitute players) and even the fans. Technical fouls can be called at the referees' discretion but are usually called for unsportsmanlike play, foul language, throwing objects or fighting. They will result in free throws and possession for the opposing team.
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