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  • Writer's pictureSarge

You Make The Call Ref: Back Court or Not?


The NFHS (National Federation of State High School Associations) basketball rules dictate that a backcourt violation occurs when a team that has possession of the basketball in the frontcourt moves the ball to the backcourt and then re-establishes possession in the frontcourt. Here are the key points related to backcourt violations in NFHS basketball:


Initial Possession: A team gains possession when the ball is in the control of a player (dribbling or holding) in the frontcourt.


Crossing the Midcourt Line: Once a team has possession in the frontcourt, they can pass or dribble the ball across the midcourt line (half-court line) without penalty.


Backcourt Violation: If a player or the ball moves from the frontcourt to the backcourt (crosses the midcourt line) and then the team re-establishes possession in the backcourt, it's considered a backcourt violation. This results in a turnover, and the opposing team gains possession.


Exceptions: There are exceptions to this rule. For example, if the ball is deflected or tipped by the defense into the backcourt, the offense can legally recover it without a violation. Additionally, if there's a change of possession (e.g., a steal by the defense) and the ball is in the backcourt, there's no violation.


Shot Clock Reset: In high school basketball, some states use a shot clock, and if a backcourt violation occurs, the shot clock is reset to a specified time (typically 20 or 30 seconds) if the offensive team retains possession.


Remember that specific interpretations of NFHS rules can vary slightly depending on the state and its local rules committees, so it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the rules used in your area.


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