How to Call a Three Second Violation in the NBA

The NBA rarely calls three second violations and therefore most people are not familiar with what this ruling is all about or how to recognize it. The three second violation applies to offensive and defensive players and is important in keeping play running smoothly. Whether you want a better understanding for watching games or if you referee part time, this is how you can call a three second violation.

Instructions

    • 1

      Identify whether the player is offensive or defensive. Defensive players have much more leeway when it comes to the three second violation. As long as the player is actively guarding another offensive player, he is not in violation. An offensive player cannot be in the lane area or within four feet of the line for longer than three seconds unless they are passing the ball or attempting a shot.

    • 2

      Time how long the player has been stationary in the lane area. Offensive players who are in continuous motion towards the basket attempting a shot can take advantage of the full three seconds without calling a violation. The timer starts when the offensive team is in control of the ball in the front court.

    • 3

      Call the three second violation by using the official NBA referee hand signal. The signal for this infraction looks like three fingers held up, with thumb and pinkie fingers touching in the palm, fingers close together and sideward from the body.

    • 4

      Award the proper penalty for the three second violation. For offensive players, this means loss of possession to the opposing team by inbounding the ball at the sideline closest to the free throw line. If it is a defensive three second violation, a technical foul results in the offensive team retaining the ball at the sideline closest to the free throw line. The shot clock will remain set to whenever the violation occurred or reset to 14 seconds, whichever gives the offense more time.