Rules and Regulations

How to Call a Foul & Report to the Scorekeeper

How to Administer a Free Throw

Inbounding Guidelines for Fouls

How to Administer a Throw In

The Bump & Run Technique

Recognizing and Beckoning Substitutes

Most Misunderstood Rules

Tips For Being a Successful Official

How to call a foul

1. See the Foul

• Anticipate what might happen. See the illegal contact. Was an advantage gained?
• Take a “mental picture.” Who was fouled? Was it in the act? Don’t guess!

2. Blow Your Whistle

• Blow your whistle - Arm up with a fist (2-3 seconds).
• Verbalize and hand signal to partner (”SHOOTING” or “on the floor”).
• This must be done quickly - don’t make your partner wait!

3. Report the Foul to the Scorer

• Move toward the scorer - get a line of site.
• Always say the color first and then the number of the person who committed the foul.
• Keep your hand away from your face and body. Use only one hand for the number. If the number (digit) is higher than a five, cross hands (5+2=7). If no number, use an identifier.
• If you call a jump-ball (alternate/possession), let the scorekeeper know (ask him).
• If a ball went in say, “count it” at the spot, then again to the scorer. Do not blow your whistle a second time.
• Ask “How many team fouls?” when you report a non-shooting foul. Tell your partner.
• Do not carry the ball when reporting numbers. Toss the ball to your partner.
• Lead and Trail switch if the foul will involve free throws. If it’s a non-shooting foul, stay the same.

4. The Other Ref

• The referee who didn’t make the call should get the ball and line the players up for free throws.
• Keep your eyes on the players for problems/anger/words.

IMPORTANT: Do not argue or explain your judgment calls!

Reporting to the scorekeeper

Remember to use good hand signals and be slow and deliberate. Get some sort of validation (a nod).

1. Verbalize It

• Always say the color first and then the number of the person who committed the foul.
• If a ball went in, tell the scorekeeper to “COUNT IT” before anything else.

2. Show It

• Keep your hand away from your face and body.
• Use only one hand for the number. If the number (digit) is higher than a five, cross hands (5+2=7).
• If no number, use an identifier.

3. Jump Ball

• If you call a jump-ball (alternate/possession), let the scorekeeper know (ask him).