Rules for Basketball Refs

Basketball referees are in charge of controlling a contest. They work in tandem with coaches, scorekeepers and timekeepers to ensure the proper flow to the game. Referees have a thorough understanding of the rulebook and implement that knowledge in calling the game. There are certain guidelines all referees follow in the process of calling a fair basketball game.

  1. Pregame

    • A referee is to inspect all basketballs and other equipment prior to the start of a basketball game. The referee also informs the team of the start of each half three minutes prior to tip off. The referee also tosses the ball up at the start of every game and during every jumpball during the course of the game.

    In Game

    • The referees are responsible for the conduct of the game, and ensure that the rules of play are carried out faithfully. The referee, along with enforcing any regular violations, has the right to eject any player, coach, or spectator that has engaged in flagrant conduct detrimental to the game and its participants. The referee approves the final scores of all games as well, to ensure that the scorekeeper effectively tallied the scoring of both teams.

    Signals

    • It is the responsibility of referees to provide signals in accordance to fouls that transpire during the course of the game. After a foul, the referee is required to signal the timekeeper to stop the clock. The referee also informers the scorekeeper of the individual that committed the foul, as well as the amount of foul shots awarded to the other team, if applicable. The referee also provides signals after the ball is turned out of bounds. The referee will signal the reason for the dead ball, indicate the throw in spot, and the team that will have possession of the ball.