The basic idea of basketball is simple: score more points than the other team by shooting the ball through the hoop. The details vary between leagues, so this guide covers the core rules and the main differences between the NBA, international (FIBA) and US college (NCAA) basketball.
Scoring
- a field goal inside the three-point line is worth 2 points;
- a shot from behind the arc is worth 3 points;
- a free throw is worth 1 point.
The three-point line is 23 feet 9 inches from the basket in the NBA (22 feet in the corners) and 6.75 meters (about 22 feet 2 inches) in FIBA play and NCAA basketball.
Game length and shot clock
NBA games have four 12-minute quarters; FIBA and WNBA games have four 10-minute quarters; NCAA men’s games have two 20-minute halves. The shot clock is 24 seconds in the NBA, WNBA and FIBA, and 30 seconds in NCAA basketball.
Common violations
- Traveling: moving the pivot foot or taking too many steps without dribbling. Players get two steps after gathering the ball.
- Double dribble: dribbling with both hands at once, or dribbling again after stopping.
- Three seconds: an offensive player may not stay in the painted lane for more than three seconds.
- Backcourt: once the ball has crossed half-court, the offense cannot take it back. The team must cross half-court within 8 seconds in the NBA and FIBA, and 10 seconds in NCAA men’s play.
- Goaltending: touching a shot on its way down toward the basket.
Fouls
Personal fouls involve illegal contact: pushing, holding, hitting the shooter’s arm, blocking a player’s path while moving. A player fouls out after six personal fouls in the NBA and WNBA and five in FIBA and NCAA play. Technical fouls punish unsportsmanlike behavior, such as arguing with referees. Once a team commits a certain number of fouls in a period, the opponent shoots free throws on further fouls (the bonus).
How to avoid fouls
- move your feet instead of reaching;
- contest shots with vertical arms;
- establish position early when taking a charge;
- avoid hand-checking the dribbler.
Defensive technique is covered in becoming a better defender. Official rulebooks are published by each league and by FIBA. If you coach young players, see tips for youth coaches.
