Basketball Defense Rules

The adage "Defense wins championships," isn't just a trite phrase. It is difficult to have a successful basketball team if you do not have a team that is willing to work hard on defense. However, in addition to having a desire to play defense, players must also have the knowledge of the rules of defense to be effective players.

  1. Foul

    • A foul is the most frequently called defensive infraction. A defensive foul occurs when a defensive player hits, trips, slaps or holds a defensive player in an attempt to steal or block the ball. A foul resets the shot clock and in many instances allows the team that was fouled the opportunity to inbound the ball. If one team fouls too many times or if a defensive player fouls an offensive player while he is attempting a shot, the offensive team gets to attempt one or more foul shots. If an offensive player makes the shot while he is being fouled, he gets one foul shot. If he is fouled while taking a two-point shot, he gets two foul shots. If a defensive player fouls an offensive player while attempting a three-point shot, the offensive player receives three foul shots.

      If an offensive player runs into a stationary defensive player, the defensive player is not at fault and an offensive foul is called. The defensive team is awarded the ball.

    Flagrant and Intentional Fouls

    • A flagrant foul occurs when the defensive player fouls the opposing player with excessive force or animosity. A flagrant foul often involves hitting, kicking or tripping. The difference between a normal foul and a flagrant foul is determined by the referee. Often a flagrant foul includes an injury or an extra level of physicality that isn't seen on normal fouls.

      An intentional foul is somewhat similar to a flagrant foul, however it does not necessarily need to be excessively physical. A defensive player commits an intentional foul when he fouls another player without making an attempt to block or steal the ball. In the case of a flagrant foul or an intentional foul, the offensive team is awarded a technical shot and will inbound the ball.

    Over the Back

    • A defensive player is allowed to initiate some contact on an offensive player when there is a rebound up for grabs. Legally, a defensive player can back himself into the body of a defensive player to keep the offensive player from getting around him to grab a rebound. However, if the defensive player finds himself boxed out by an offensive player when a rebound is up for grabs, the defensive player cannot attempt to go over the back of the offensive player. If he does this, he will be called for an over-the-back violation. Even if he gets the rebound, the opposing team will be awarded the ball.