How to Define Traveling in the NBA

NBA basketball is one of the fastest moving and energetic sports in the world. The action goes up and down the court at an intense pace. It is often hard for the fan to follow the actions and rules, such as traveling.

Instructions

    • 1

      Realize that an NBA player, when not dribbling the basketball, cannot take more than two steps without either shooting or passing the basketball. If the player does not dribble and takes more than two steps a referee will call a traveling violation.

    • 2

      Understand that NBA referees have a liberal interpretation of the traveling rule at times. There are times when a player does take more than two steps and the referee will not call traveling. This is partially due to the athleticism of the players and the fast-paced nature of the game. The referees are human and make mistakes.

    • 3

      Recognize the right of NBA players to use the pivot foot during the game. An NBA player may use one stationary foot as the pivot foot. As long as the pivot foot does not move, a player may rotate and move the other foot.

    • 4

      Know that an NBA player that attempts a shot that does not touch the backboard, rim or another player, may not be the first player to touch that ball. If a player does touch such a shot the referee will call traveling.

    • 5

      Appreciate that a player who falls on the court while in possession of the basketball cannot slide forward or the referee will call traveling. In addition, a player who receives a pass or stops his dribble may not slide or traveling will be called.