Basket Interference

Basket Interference Explained

Basket interference occurs when a player illegally touches the ball or the basket itself while the ball is on or within the basket. This rule is designed to protect a potential scoring opportunity once the ball is in the cylinder or touching the rim.

What constitutes basket interference?

• Touching the ball while it is sitting on the rim.
• Touching the ball while it is within the cylinder above the rim.
• Touching the basket while the ball is on the rim or within the cylinder.

Why it matters: Basket interference protects scoring opportunities. It prevents players from preventing easy scores. It encourages players to play fairly around the basket.

How coaches can use it: Coaches should teach players to avoid reaching for the ball when it is on the rim or inside the basket. Emphasize proper rebounding technique, focusing on securing the ball cleanly without interfering with the basket. Understanding the timing of when the ball is no longer protected is very important to teach players. Emphasize contesting shots using verticality to reduce these calls.