What are NBA players not allowed to do?

NBA players are prohibited from engaging in a wide array of actions, both during gameplay and in their personal conduct, to ensure fair competition, player safety, and uphold the league's integrity. These restrictions cover everything from how they interact with the ball and the basket to their behavior off the court.

On-Court Prohibitions and Violations

During a game, players must adhere to specific rules governing their movements, interactions, and attempts to score. Violations typically result in a turnover, while fouls lead to free throws or possession for the opposing team.

Ball Handling and Movement Restrictions

Players must maintain strict control and form when handling the basketball:

• Traveling: A player is not allowed to take too many steps without dribbling the ball. Once a player picks up their dribble, they cannot move their pivot foot.
• Double Dribble: Dribbling the ball with both hands simultaneously or stopping a dribble and then resuming it are both illegal.
• Carrying/Palming: Illegally holding the ball in one's hand while dribbling, allowing too much control.

Time-Related Violations

The game is played against various time constraints to maintain a dynamic pace:

• 3-Second Violation: An offensive player cannot remain in the opponent's free-throw lane (the "paint") for more than three consecutive seconds while their team is in possession of the ball.
• 8-Second Violation: The offensive team must advance the ball from their backcourt (defensive half) to the frontcourt (offensive half) within eight seconds of gaining possession.
• 24-Second Shot Clock Violation: A shot must be attempted and hit the rim or enter the basket within 24 seconds of a team gaining possession.
• 5-Second Violations: These can include holding the ball for five seconds while closely guarded without passing, shooting, or dribbling, or failing to inbound the ball within five seconds.

Scoring and Basket Interference Rules

Strict rules are in place around the basket to ensure fair scoring opportunities:

• Goaltending: Interfering with a shot while it is on its downward flight toward the basket, or while it is above the rim and has a chance to go in.
• Basket Interference: Touching the rim, net, or ball while the ball is on or within the basket, or while the ball is entering the basket.
• Assisting Self or Teammate to Score: A player may not assist himself in an attempt to score by using any part of the rim, net, backboard or basket support to lift, hold or raise himself. Similarly, a player may not assist a teammate to gain height while attempting to score. This rule prevents players from gaining an unfair advantage by using the basket structure for elevation or support during a scoring attempt.

Fouls and Unsporting Conduct

Contact and behavior are strictly regulated to protect players and maintain order:

• Personal Fouls: Illegal contact with an opponent, such as blocking, charging, holding, pushing, or illegal screens. Excessive personal fouls can lead to disqualification from the game.
• Technical Fouls: Non-contact violations that relate to unsportsmanlike conduct, arguing with officials, disrespect, or other procedural infractions (e.g., hanging on the rim unnecessarily after a dunk, delaying the game).
• Flagrant Fouls: Defined by excessive or unnecessary contact, these fouls can result in immediate ejection from the game and potential suspensions or fines.
• Unsportsmanlike Conduct: Actions like taunting, fighting, or engaging in overly aggressive behavior that detracts from the spirit of the game are strictly prohibited and can result in penalties ranging from technical fouls to suspensions.

Off-Court Conduct and League Policies

NBA players are also subject to rules and policies outside of game play that protect the league's image and integrity.

• Prohibited Substances: Players are not allowed to use illegal drugs or performance-enhancing substances. The NBA has a comprehensive anti-drug program with strict penalties.
• Gambling: Betting on NBA games or activities is strictly forbidden for all players, coaches, and league personnel.
• Misconduct: Actions that bring disrepute to the league, including involvement in criminal activities, public altercations, or inappropriate social media conduct, can lead to disciplinary action.
• Tampering: Players, coaches, or team executives are not allowed to directly or indirectly entice a player or coach who is under contract with another team.

Consequences of Violations

The penalties for violating NBA rules vary significantly depending on the severity and nature of the infraction.