Citi Journalist

It can be hard to follow a basketball game when you have no idea why the referees are blowing the whistle. A foul is usually why the referee stops the game. A basketball game can be stopped for the following reasons: breaking a rule, illegal contact between two players or unsportsmanlike conduct by a player.

Illegal contact between two players is considered to be a foul. Here are the different types of fouls that can be seen in a typical game of basketball:

Offensive

As the name implies, an offensive foul is one that is committed by a player on offense (a player from the team that has possession of the ball). This type of foul usually happens when a player that is dribbling the ball purposely runs into a defensive player and stops them from player proper defense. The game is stopped when an offensive foul occurs and the ball is given to the team on defense.

Defensive

The opposite of an offensive foul, a defensive foul is one committed by a person on defense. This can be committed by illegal use of the arm or body. These type are common when players are jockeying for position under the basket in hopes to get their hands on a rebound.

Shooting

This type of foul occurs when a defensive player alters the outcome of a shot by an offensive player. If the shot is made and a shooting foul is called the basket is still counted but the player gets one free throw opportunity. When a shot is missed when a foul is called then the shooter is given two free throw opportunities. If a player is fouled when shooting a 3-point shot three free throw opportunities are given.

Intentional

The purpose of this type of foul is solely to stop the clock. This usually happens when the end of the game is coming soon. The fouled player will receive two free throw opportunities. Regardless of the outcome of the free throws, the team will also get control of the ball after the free throws.

Technical

These can be called for a variety of reasons, including bad sportsmanship, trash talking and arguing with the referees. Free throw opportunities are given to the other team when one of these is committed~If this has been committed, free throw shots are given to the other team as a result}.

There are also many violations that happen in a basketball in addition to all of the different types of fouls. Common violations of basketball include traveling, goaltending and shot clock violations. Traveling is when a player has picked up their dribble and moves their “pivot foot.” Goaltending is when a shot has broken the plane of the rim and is taken out by a defensive player. Shot clock violations vary among leagues and rules. A violation occurs when the allotted time to score has expired. The ball is then given to the other team.

Hopefully this short run down on the rules and violations that occur in the game of basketball will make your next game a bit more enjoyable.