Section 5: Rules of Play
Game Structure
- Two 20-minute halves (distinguishes NCAA M's from FIBA quarters and NCAA W's quarters)
- 15-minute halftime intermission
- 5-minute overtime periods, unlimited until a winner is determined
Shot Clock
- 30-second shot clock (reduced from 35 in 2015-16 season)
- Resets to 30 on change of possession; resets to 20 on offensive rebound (since 2018-19)
- The team in possession must attempt a shot that contacts the rim before the shot clock expires; failure is a shot-clock violation
Starting Play
The game begins with a jump ball at the center circle. Subsequent jump-ball situations are resolved by the alternating-possession rule — the arrow indicates which team gets possession.
Movement of the Ball
- Dribble (single-hand bouncing), pass, or shoot
- Player in possession may not run with the ball without dribbling
- Closely-guarded 5-second rule when a defender is within 6 feet
- Backcourt 10-second rule: ball must be advanced past midcourt within 10 seconds of inbound
- 3-second rule: offensive player may not remain in the lane for more than 3 consecutive seconds
Bonus Free Throws
- 1-and-1 bonus: starts at the team's 7th team foul per half — the offended team shoots one free throw and, if successful, a second
- Double bonus: starts at the team's 10th team foul per half — the offended team shoots two free throws automatically