travel hand signal in basketball

What Each Basketball Referee Signal Means (with Pictures)

Mike has been involved with basketball for over 30 years as a player, coach, and bettor. He has a degree in Sports Psychology and enjoys following both the NBA and College Basketball on a nightly basis.

If you are new to the game of basketball, you have probably wondered what the deal is with all of the signals from the referees. To a basketball newcomer, it can seem as if the officials have their own unique sign language. This can make for a very confusing experience if you don’t understand the signals.

Ever wonder what the referees are signaling during a basketball game? Read on to learn about a breakdown of each referee signal and what each one means.

Breaking Down Each Referee Signal

Violation signals.

Traveling (aka Walking)

What It Means: When the ball handler takes too many steps without dribbling the basketball, the referee will blow the whistle and call a traveling violation. This will result in the offensive team losing possession of the ball (turnover). The traveling signal is made by the referee by making a rolling/spinning motion with both of his arms.

Five Second Violation

What It Means: When a team is trying to inbound the basketball, they have five seconds to do so. If the inbounder takes more than five seconds, the referee will blow the whistle. He will then stick out five fingers to signal the five-second violation call .

Double or Illegal Dribble

What It Means: When the ball handler dribbles with both hands at the same time, that is a double dribble and will result in a turnover for the offense. A double dribble also occurs when the ball handler picks up his dribble but then tries to dribble again afterward. The referee’s signal for an illegal dribble is to do a dribbling motion with both of his hands.

Ten Second Violation

What It Means: After a team inbounds the ball, they are given ten seconds to get the ball past half court. If it takes them longer than ten seconds, the referee will blow the play dead and call a ten-second violation. The signal for the ten-second violation is to simply put ten fingers up.

Carrying (or Palming) the Ball

What It Means: This isn’t called much by officials in college basketball or the NBA but it is called quite a bit during young kids’ games. Carrying happens when the ball handler either palms the ball or tries to scoop underneath it instead of dribbling correctly. The penalty for carrying results in a turnover for the offense.

What It Means: When an offensive player kicks the ball on purpose, the play is blown dead and the referee awards possession to the defense by allowing them an out-of-bounds throw-in. To call a kicking violation, the official simply does a kicking motion with one of his feet.

Over and Back (aka Half Court or Backcourt Violation)

What It Means: Once the offensive team crosses the midcourt line, they are not allowed to go back across it. If they do, the referee will blow the whistle and call an over and back violation. This will result in a loss of possession for the offensive team.

over and back half court violation referee signal

Three Second Violation

What It Means: An offensive player can only be in the paint for less than three seconds. If he stays in the paint for a full three seconds, the play is blown dead and the offense must forfeit possession of the ball. To make the signal for a three-second violation, the referee will put three fingers up on both hands and keep one arm high and one arm low.

Foul Signals

What It Means: When a defender limits an offensive player with his hand, a hand check call is made by the official. The signal is an open hand in the air while the other hand grabs the wrist.

What It Means: When the ball handler runs over a defender who has set his feet and has established position, the referee will call a charging foul. This will result in a turnover and will count as a personal foul to the offensive player. It will also count against the number of team fouls and may result in free throws if the team is over the limit. To make the charging call, the official simply puts his hand on his hand and sticks out his elbow.

What It Means: A defender cannot hold an offensive player. If he does, a holding call will be made. To signal holding, the ref holds his wrist. This results in a personal foul on the defender.

Intentional Foul

What It Means: If an official deems that a defensive player fouls an offensive player on purpose, an intentional foul is called. This is usually done by a team near the end of the game with the hopes of extending the game by stopping the clock. To make the intentional foul signal, the ref raises both arms over his head and touches his wrists together.

What It Means: When a defensive player stands in the way of the ball handler’s path to the basket without setting his feet, a blocking foul can be called. If a blocking foul is called, the ball handler will get free throws if his team is in the bonus. If the team isn’t in the bonus, the ball will be taken out of bounds from the sideline. To make the blocking call, the official will put both of his hands on his hips.

Technical Foul

What It Means: Technical fouls are usually issued for unsportsmanlike conduct. You may have noticed a referee “Teeing” up a coach who yelled too many curse words at him for a bad call. Technical fouls are also called on players who are fighting on the court. To signal a technical foul, the ref simply makes a T with his hands, similar to a timeout signal. When a technical foul is called, the opposing team gets awarded with one free throw attempt and possession of the ball.

What It Means: Pushing is usually called when a loose ball foul occurs. To gain possession one player may push another player out of the way. This counts as a personal foul and a loss of possession. The referee makes a shoving motion with his arms to signal a pushing foul.

Other Referee Signals

What It Means: When opposing players have their hands on the ball at the same time, a jump ball is called. When a jump ball is called, those two players have to perform the jump ball to decide possession or officials will use the possession arrow to determine who gets the ball. This all depends on what league you are watching. The referee signals a jump ball by giving the two thumbs up sign.

What It Means: When the shooter makes a basket but is fouled, the ref must determine if the foul occurred during the act of shooting. If the shooter wasn’t in the act of shooting, the basket doesn’t count. To signal that the shot doesn’t count, the official waves his arms in a fashion that is similar to the “field goal is no good” sign in football.

30 Second Timeout

What It Means: When a team calls a 30-second timeout, the referee lets the scorer’s table know by both of his hands to his shoulders.

Start Clock

What It Means: When the official is ready to start the clock, he raises one hand up and then lowers it quickly.

What It Means: When the referee wants to stop the clock, he raises one hand and keeps it there.

Three-Point Attempt

What It Means: To let the scorer’s table know that a player has attempted a three-point shot, the official will hold up three fingers.

Three-Point Score

What It Means: When a player hits a three-pointer, the ref will raise both hands to signal that it was a successful three-point shot.

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11 Basketball Referee Signals: What Do They Mean?

Ever wondered what basketball referee signals mean?

You might be one of those who, while playing basketball, notice basketball referees moving their hands, but you have no idea what they mean.

Thinking it’s the official’s sign language, you might get confused, especially if you’re a newbie.

In this blog, we will tackle what these signals mean exactly and why knowing the roles of referees is a must.

Let’s get started.

What is the role of the referee in basketball?

A referee is also called an official in various competitions and sports. It’s their responsibility to enforce the rules of the game and sportsmanship decisions.

Since the sport usually has various rules and decisions, the referee is there to make sure that everyone plays fair and square.

What are basketball referee signals?

Basketball referee signals are what officials use during the game to call out rules or players’ actions that can affect the game’s turnout.

Referees use their hand movements since it’s a convenient option in calling out the players’ and audience’s attention.

11 basketball referee signals and their meaning

There are a lot of basketball referee signals, so here are some of the signals you will often encounter during a game.

1) Traveling

One of the most common basketball referee signals, traveling occurs when the referee makes a roll or spinning motion with both his arms.

It means the ball handler took too many steps without dribbling the basketball.

This results in the offensive team losing possession of the ball, so be mindful.

2) Double dribble

When the referee does a dribble motion with both of his hands, it means the ball handler was dribbling using both hands at the same time.

It is also a double dribble when the ball handler picks up his dribble and right after that, dribbles again.

It results in a turnover for the offense, so being extra mindful in dribbling may be a good idea.

3) 5-second violation

When the referee sticks out five fingers, it means the inbounder took more than five seconds.

You have to remember that the team only has five seconds to inbound the basketball.

4) 10-second violation

When the referee put ten fingers up, it means the team took more than ten seconds to get the ball past half court after inbounding the basketball.

The team only has ten seconds to get the ball past half the court, so all players should be quick in passing the ball.

5) Carrying

It is one of those basketball referee signals that get called out often during young kids’ games.

When the referee does an open palm facing up, it means the ball handler palms the ball or scoops underneath the ball instead of dribbling.

This is not soccer where you can kick the ball however you like.

So, when the referee does a kicking motion with one foot, it means the offensive player kicked the ball on purpose.

It results in the play being blown dead and the possession of the ball transfers to the defense through an out-of-bounds throw-in.

7) Backcourt

For this violation, the referee sways his arm with palm up beyond hip level and palm down the waist.

This is a signal for when the offensive team that crossed the midcourt line went back across it.

Be extra careful when you finally have the ball and where you pass it.

Make sure all your team are on the same side of the court and won’t go back to the other court once you’re at your home court.

8) Jumpball

Don’t confuse this signal as something good. When the referee gave two thumbs up, it means two opposing players have their hands on the ball at the same time.

To resolve the matter, the two opposing players will have to do a jump ball to decide who can possess the ball.

As a player, being careful where you put your hands would be a great move.

When the referee holds his wrist, it means the defender was holding the offensive player.

It is one of the basketball foul signals that you should be mindful of. It results in a personal foul on the defender.

10) Blocking

Another one of the basketball foul signals that you will often encounter on the court would be blocking.

When the referee puts both his hands on his hips, it means the defensive player was blocking the ball handler to the basket without setting his/her feet.

It results in the ball handler getting free throws if their team is on the bonus or if they are not on the bonus, the ball will be out of bounds.

11) Pushing

This means that you should be aware of your strength or be careful where you put your force on.

When the referee’s arms do a shoving motion, it means a player pushed another player out of the way.

It results in a personal foul and loss of ball possession.

How does a referee signal a goal?

It is one of the referee’s responsibilities to signal a goal to know that it counts for the score.

Players would also like to know if their shoots count while playing.

So, when a player shoots a two-point, the referee will point two fingers while extending one arm parallel to the floor.

On the other hand, when a player scores three points, the referee will extend both arms upwards with their fingers pointing.

Why do basketball refs wave their arms?

You will know if your shot does not count when the referee waves their arms.

When they wave their arms, it means the shooting is foul and the referee needs to check if the foul happened during the act of shooting .

In any case, if it did not, the shot doesn’t count.

Learning the basketball referee signals is one of the basics that basketball players should know.

It can always help them, especially you, to make a decision and gain observations when in court.

It also helps in feeling or being safe in court, plus the assurance of fair play.

These basketball referee hand signals would your life as a basketball player easy but also might be your source of confusion during a game.

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Basketball Referee Signals And Meanings

Clyde JacksonIII

Updated on: December 1, 2023

Basketball is a complex sport with many rules and regulations. One important part of the game is the referees and their signals . Each signal has a specific meaning and purpose . Knowing what each signal means is essential for players, coaches, and fans to understand the game.

Here are some of the most common signals referees use and what they mean.

Table of Contents

Basketball Violation Hand Signals

The traveling rule states that players cannot take more than two steps without dribbling the ball. There are three ways to signal a travel violation.

The most common signal is to hold both hands up in the air with the palms facing out. This signal indicates to the players and spectators that a travel violation has occurred.
Hold one hand up in the air with the palm facing out and the other hand down at your side. This signal is known as the one-hand travel signal .
Hold both hands up with your fingers pointing upward .

Carrying Or Palming:

The signal for this violation is holding your arm out straight with your palm open . The other way is by holding your arm straight and making a fist with your hand .

Double Dribble:

When you see a referee in a basketball game raise both hands above their head with their palms facing out , it’s a signal for a double dribble.

Three Seconds:

The referee holds both hands up in the air with their palms facing out . This signal means that the player has committed a three-second violation.

Five Seconds:

The referee can signal this violation by holding both hands above their head , with their palms facing out, and then bringing them down in a chopping motion after five seconds have passed.

Ten Seconds:

One of the important signals is the “ten seconds” signal , which indicates that the offensive team has ten seconds to advance the ball past half-court when the referee raises both hands above their head and points at the shot clock with both index fingers.

Basketball Foul Signals

Player control foul (charge):.

This type of foul occurs when a player uses their body to block another player trying to dribble or shoot the ball .

When a player control foul is called, the referee will signal with their hands by making a T shape. This signal indicates that the fouled player will receive one free throw attempt.

Hand Check:

The ref will signal a hand-check foul by holding their fist in front of them with their palm facing out.

The most common way of blocking signals is to signal with both hands held up in front of the chest .

The referee will signal a holding foul by extending one arm to the side and making a fist with the hand.

The referee will signal a pushing foul by holding one arm out to the side and making a fist with the other hand.

Intentional Foul:

When a player commits an intentional foul, the referee will signal with both hands held at shoulder level and palms facing out . The signal for an intentional foul is unique among all the other basketball referee signals.

Technical Foul:

A referee signals for a technical foul by holding up two fingers or using an imaginary T with both hands, which stands for “technical.”

Double Foul:

The referee will signal for a double foul by holding up both hands and extending both index fingers.

Illegal Hand Use:

An illegal hand-use foul is when a player uses their hand or arm to gain an advantage while playing illegally. The most common signal used by Referees for this violation is by holding up their arms with their palm open and fingers extended .

Hand signal Indicators

Two point basket scored:.

The referee will signal this with both hands when two points are scored in basketball. The first hand will be held up with two fingers extended , and the other hand will be held up with one finger. This signal is known as the “two-point basket” signal.

Three Point Basket Scored:

To signal that a three-point basket has been scored, the referee will hold up both hands above their head , with their palms facing out, and extend all fingers .

One hand signal that is used is counting. When a referee counts, they indicate how many fouls have been committed by a player or team.

Basket Counts:

To signal a basket count, the referee will hold up both hands, palms facing out, and then extend their fingers to form a “V.” The number of fingers extended corresponds to the number of points that have been scored. For example, the referee will extend two fingers if two points have been scored. If three points have been scored, the referee will extend three fingers, and so on.

The basket Does Not Count:

The referee signals that the basket does not count by holding both hands above their head, palms facing out, and waving them back and forth.

Bonus Free Throws

The referee signals for a bonus free throw by holding up both hands with the palms facing out .

Lane Violation

The referee’s signal for a lane violation is holding one arm out straight to the side and waving the other arm back and forth across the body.

Kicking the Ball

When the referee raises one foot in front of them with the ball held in front of them. This signal indicates that the player who last touched the ball committed a foul.

Time Management Signals

When the referee holds up their arm with their fist clenched . That’s called the stop clock signal, which indicates that the clock should be stopped.

Start Clock

When the referee blows their whistle and points to their watch , that’s the signal for the “start clock.” This means that the 24-second shot clock will start running.

Full Timeout

A full timeout in basketball is signaled by the referee holding both hands above their head, fingers extended , and then crossing them at the wrists . This signal indicates that the game has been stopped, and all players must go to their respective benches.

Thirty Second Timeout

To signal for a thirty-second timeout, the ref will extend both arms to their sides and bring them together in front of their chest, crossing their wrists.

The jump ball signal is when both referees raise their arms above their heads and clap their hands together. This signals that a jump ball is about to take place.

Substitution-Referee Signal:

The substitution-referee signal indicates that a substitute is replacing a player. The signal is made by holding one arm to the side and waving the other arm in a circular motion.

Conclusion:

Understanding basketball referee signals and their meanings are important for all. With a little practice, anyone can become familiar with the most common signals and their meanings. After all, an informed fan is a better fan!

Clyde Jackson III is a basketball coach and the founder of GCBC Basketball, a basketball-related learning and informational website that focuses on helping young players develop their skills on and off the court. With over 15 years of coaching experience, Clyde has worked with players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to professionals.

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Last Updated on December 1, 2023 by Clyde JacksonIII

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4 Types of Basketball Referee Hand Signals

Following a basketball game is simple during regular play, but it gets a bit trickier when a foul gets called or the game stops. There is a wide range of unique events in basketball, and they all come with their own hand signals .

Knowing those signs makes watching the contest much easier. If you’re curious about them, or if you want to know what they mean, the following paragraphs break them down in great detail.

1. Time Management Signals

Stop Clock/Start Clock: To signal to the table that the clock needs to stop, a referee will raise their hand straight into the air over their head with the palm facing out. To resume the clock, they hold the same position and simply drop the raised hand to the floor.

Timeout (Full and Thirty Second): If a team, or the official, needs a full timeout, the ref will signal it by putting both arms fully out to the sides and creating a large “T” shape. If the call is for a thirty second timeout, the official places both of his hands on top of his shoulders.

Jump Ball: In the event of a jump ball, which happens when two players from opposite teams hold onto the ball at the same time, a ref will extend his arms and point both of his thumbs up.

Substitution: When a team calls for a substitution the ref will raise one hand to the time keeper in a “stop” motion and then use his other hand to wave the new player into the game.

Basketball Referee Penalties and Signals – How to Officiate Basketball – Bob Scofield

2. Foul Signals

Charge: If an offensive player runs over a defensive player who’s in position, it’s a charging foul. When that happens, the ref will call it by placing one hand on the back of their head and pointing in the opposite direction of the play.

Hand Check : If a player reaches and hand checks their opponent, a referee will extend one arm in front of their chest and then grab their wrist with their other hand.

Blocking: A blocking foul is committed when a defensive player moves into, or literally blocks, another player. This is signaled by moving both hands, balled into fists, down against the hips.

Holding/Pushing: A holding signal is made when a ref extends one arm upwards in front of his face and grabs their wrist with their other hand. To signal a push, the ref will extend both hands straight in front of them with their palms facing outward.

Intentional Foul: An international foul happens when a player purposely tries to foul someone else. In this instance, a referee will raise both arms above his head and cross them.

Technical Foul : To signal a technical foul a referee places both of his hands in front of him and places them together to form a “T” shape.

Double Foul: If two players commit fouls at the same time, the official will ball his hands into fists and then extend them out to the sides.

Illegal Hand Use: If a referee calls a player for illegal use of hands, they will put both hands in front of them at waist level and grab one of his wrists with the other hand.

3. Violation Signals

Traveling : To call a travel, a referee will ball their hands into fists and then rotate them in a circle pattern in front of their body.

Carrying /Palming: If a player palms the ball, a referee will put one hand in front of their body with the palm up and flip it face down.

Double Dribble: A double dribble violation is called by the ref placing both hands in front of himself with the palms down. From there, he alternates them up and down in a dribbling motion.

Three Seconds / Five Seconds /Ten Seconds: If a player violates a timing regulation , a referee will raise a certain number of fingers on their hand and wave them back and forth. Three fingers for three seconds, five for five, and ten for ten.

Kick Ball : Sometimes, a player will kick the ball with their leg or foot. If that happens, the ref will raise one foot up in a slight kicking motion.

4. Hand Signal Indicators

Two Pointer/Three Pointer: If a player makes a two point shot, the ref will extend their arm parallel to the floor and point with two fingers. If a three gets made, they will extend both arms into the air with their fingers pointed upwards.

Basket Counts/Doesn’t Count: When an official wants to signal a made basket after a foul they will ball up their hand and punch downwards. If they want to signal that the shot doesn’t count, they will “wave off” the shot by crossing their hands in the air.

Lane Violation: In the unlikely event that a player goes over the lane during a free throw, a ref will signal it by raising one of his arms out to the side and holding it there until the free throw finishes.

Final Whistle: The Many Gestures of Basketball

Everyone gives referees a hard time, but they have a lot to do and memorize during a game. It’s easy to know one or two signs, but having everything ready to go at all times isn’t easy. That can be even trickier for a casual fan or spectator.

The above paragraphs give a comprehensive look at just about every hand signal you’ll see in a regular game. Being able to immediately recognize them teaches you more about the sport, and makes it much easier to follow what’s going on during the action.

How Much Does a High School Basketball Referee Make?

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By: James Patterson

Published: 16 November, 2018

Common Referee Hands Signals for Basketball
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Basketball Rules & Hand Signs

A basketball official’s job is not only to make judgment calls on what happens during the course of the game but also to make sure players, coaches and the scorekeepers understand what those calls are. That’s why basketball referees use hand signals to indicate certain fouls or violations. Understanding these hand signals can also help spectators understand what’s going on during the course of the game.

A violation is an infraction of the rules that results in the ball being awarded to the opposing team. The basketball official signals that a violation has occurred by blowing the whistle and holding one arm up in the air, with the palm open, followed by the sign for the specific violation.

Traveling is one of the more commonly called violations in basketball. Once a player establishes a pivot foot, he cannot lift that pivot foot and return it to the floor before releasing the ball on a pass or a shot. The official signals a travel by blowing the whistle and forming a fist with each hand, then rolling both fists around each other.

Three Seconds

Offensive players cannot stand in the lane area for more than 3 seconds while the ball is in their team’s front court. To signal a three-second violation, the referee holds out three fingers and waves his hand down by his side several times.

Personal Foul

Personal fouls involve illegal contact between players on opposite teams. To indicate a foul has occurred, the official blows the whistle and holds a fist straight up in the air toward the ceiling, followed by the specific foul signal.

Pushing involves using the hands, arms or both to dislodge a player from his path or a stationary position. To indicate a push, the official makes a pushing motion outward with both hands.

Blocking involves a defensive player using her body to move a player out of her intended path. A block is indicated by an official by placing both hands palm down on the hips.

Technical Foul

A technical foul is an infraction of the rules more serious than just a personal contact foul. A technical foul can be for unsportsmanlike conduct -- such as taunting or baiting an official or member of the other team -- or for administrative purposes like failing to supply a roster to the scorekeeper prior to the game. The referee signals a technical foul by forming a “T” with both hands perpendicular to each other.

"Basketball Rules Book," National Federation of State High School Associations, 2009
NCAA: Basketball Rules

James Patterson specializes in health and wellness topics, having written and produced material for the National Institutes of Health, the President's Cancer Panel and an Inc. 500 Hall of Fame company. He is also a former sportswriter with writing experience in basketball, baseball, softball, golf and other popular sports.

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15+ basketball referee signals with pictures.

By Salim Prajapati / 25 December 2023 12:55 PM

In the intricate dance of basketball, referees play a pivotal role, ensuring fair play and maintaining order on the court.

From the shrill of the whistle to the pointed direction of a finger, each gesture carries a specific meaning, a silent conversation between official and player that shapes the narrative of the match.

Understanding the language of their signals is crucial for players, coaches, and fans alike. These signals are the silent orchestrators of the game, conveying decisions with precision and authority.

In this guide, we will unravel the mystique behind some basketball referee signals, shedding light on the nuanced gestures that dictate the ebb and flow of the game.

1. Traveling

When a player illegally moves one or both of their feet without dribbling the ball, they commit a traveling violation.

This means that the player has taken steps without properly establishing a pivot foot, leading to an unfair advantage. The referee will indicate this infraction by crossing both arms in front of their face and making a circular motion with them, signaling to all participants that the traveling violation has occurred.

A shuffle of the feet prompts the referee's "traveling" signal, highlighting a player's illegal movement without dribbling.

2. Illegal or double dribble

When a player dribbles the ball, stops, and then resumes dribbling, it constitutes a double dribble, a violation of the game's fundamental rules.

Referees convey this infraction by placing both hands, one atop the other, and rotating their wrists in a rolling motion.

This signal reinforces the importance of continuous and controlled ball handling, discouraging players from gaining an unfair advantage by restarting their dribble after coming to a stop.

3. Carrying Violation

The carrying violation, also known as palming, occurs when a player momentarily cradles or scoops the ball while dribbling.

To signal this infraction, referees use an unmistakable motion, extending one hand with the palm facing down and moving it in a horizontal scooping motion across their body.

This visual cue communicates to players, coaches, and spectators that the player in possession of the ball has violated the rules by failing to maintain proper dribbling technique.

4. Three-Second Violation

In basketball, offensive players are prohibited from remaining in the key or paint area for more than three seconds at a time.

Referees signal this infraction by raising one hand with three fingers extended, making it clear that an offensive player has overstayed their welcome in the key.

This violation aims to prevent teams from gaining an unfair advantage by clogging the paint, reinforcing the importance of player movement and fair play. The three-second violation signal serves as a reminder to maintain the dynamic nature of the game.

5. 5-Second Violation

Spotting a 5-second violation in basketball relies on two key referee signals: the "five-finger fist" and the "countdown."

When an offensive player receives the ball and is closely guarded below the free throw line, the ref raises a closed fist with five fingers extended. As the player holds the ball, the ref starts counting down by folding fingers, starting with the thumb.

If all five fingers disappear before the player passes, shoots, or dribbles toward the basket, the ref blows the whistle and signals the violation with a "five-finger fan" gesture, awarding the ball to the defense.

6. 8-Second Violation

When an offensive team stalls in their backcourt, the ref whips out their arms for the 8-second violation signal.

Imagine scissors crossed at the wrists, palms facing outwards. Each second, the ref lowers one hand, reaching palm down at the eight-second mark.

If the ball doesn't cross half court by then, it's a turnover! Watch for the countdown and a firm whistle, followed by the ref pointing the ball to the opposing team at the midcourt line for the inbound.

7. 24-Second Shot Clock Violation

The shot clock plays a vital role in contemporary basketball, introducing a sense of urgency to offensive strategies.

If a team does not take a shot within the designated 24 seconds, the referee indicates a shot clock violation by raising one hand and tapping the corresponding wrist with the other.

This straightforward signal informs players, coaches, and onlookers that the offensive team has surpassed the time limit, leading to a turnover.

8. Backcourt Violation (Over-and-Back)

The Over-and-Back violation, signaled by a referee raising both arms with fists clenched above their head, occurs when a player with the ball in their hands travels beyond the half-court line and then back into the frontcourt without dribbling the ball.

Imagine an hourglass shape with the half-court line as the middle horizontal line. Crossing that line and re-entering the same half without a dribble is like sand slipping through the bottom half, resulting in this violation.

This signal, clear and distinct, ensures both players and spectators recognize the infringement, keeping the game flowing smoothly.

9. Jump Ball

A jump ball is a method of restarting play in basketball when the ball is held by two opposing players at the same time, or when a violation occurs that does not warrant awarding the ball to either team.

The umpire will signal a jump ball by raising both hands above their head, with the palms facing each other. They will then form a fist with each hand and slam them together, once for each team that is entitled to a player in the jump ball.

The jump ball is held at the center of the court, where the two players involved in the violation stand facing each other. The referee throws the ball straight up in the air, between the two players.

10. Substitution

To signal a substitution, a basketball referee makes an "X" with their arms crossed high across their chest. This universally understood symbol tells both teams and the scorer's table that a player is coming out and another is entering the game.

The substitution can only take place during a dead ball, meaning the clock is stopped and the ball is not in play.

Once the referee signals the substitution, the outgoing player must report to the scorer's table and the incoming player must check in at the same table before entering the court.

11. Timeout

A timeout in basketball is a brief pause in the game, typically requested by a coach to strategize with their team or make substitutions.

There are two main types of timeouts: team timeouts and charged timeouts. Each team is allotted seven team timeouts per game, which can be used at any time during the game.

The referee calls Charged timeouts when a team commits a foul with less than one minute remaining in the game or overtime.

To signal for a timeout, the coach or player will raise their arms in a "T" shape and call for a timeout. The referee will then acknowledge the timeout by raising their own arms in a "T" shape and pointing to the scorer's table. The clock will be stopped and the game will be paused.

12. Kicking

When a player intentionally kicks the ball in basketball, the referee blows their whistle and makes a clear signal to indicate the violation.

This involves simply raising one foot off the ground, and pointing it towards the offending player. It is a straightforward gesture that instantly informs everyone on the court and spectators of the infraction.

This kicking signal is distinct from other hand signals used for fouls or violations, ensuring clarity and efficient communication during the fast-paced game. Remember, kicking is a violation, not a foul, so no free throws are awarded. The ball is simply awarded to the other team out of bounds.

13. Hand Check Foul

Detecting a hand check violation demands a discerning eye, as the official communicates subtly through gestures.

Be vigilant for any prolonged contact of the palm with the offensive player, particularly in the vicinity of the torso or arms. The referee signals the infraction with a raised index finger directed at the defender, often accompanied by a swift downward motion, mimicking the prohibited hand placement.

If the foul significantly hinders the player's movement or momentum, anticipate a more pronounced whistle and possibly an outstretched arm pointing towards the free-throw line, denoting shooting fouls.

It is crucial to recognize sustained, illicit hand contact that restricts the offensive player's freedom on the court.

14. Charging Foul

A charging foul in basketball occurs when an offensive player initiates contact with a stationary defensive player who has already established a legal guarding position in the restricted area.

It is essentially an offensive foul where the attacker runs into the defender, not the other way around.

To indicate a charging violation, the referee will form a fist with one hand and then strike the open palm of the other hand in a punching motion.

This hand signal indicates that the offensive player was the one responsible for the illegal contact.

15. Blocking Foul

A blocking foul in basketball occurs when a defensive player illegally hinders an offensive player's progress with their body, preventing a shot or layup attempt.

To indicate this, the official will make a gesture with both hands clenched into fists, placed firmly on their hips with elbows tucked in tight.

This visual signal lets players and spectators know that the offensive player was unfairly impeded, and free throws or other penalties may be awarded.

Remember, a blocking foul differs from a charging foul, where the offensive player initiates contact with a legally positioned defender.

16. Technical foul

When a basketball player is charged with a technical foul, the referee extends their arms to create a giant T shape with their palms turned outward.

This widely understood signal indicates unsportsmanlike behavior, such as disputing calls with referees, teasing opponents, or causing unnecessary delays in the game.

The consequence of this infraction is a single free throw for the opposing team and possession of the ball. Technical fouls contribute to a player's overall foul count and, if accumulated excessively, may result in disqualification.

Therefore, it is crucial to maintain composure on the court to avoid encountering the ominous T gesture.

17. No Basket

The "No Basket" signal in basketball is a swift, decisive gesture used by referees to indicate a shot attempt unsuccessfully reaching the net.

The official will signal that the shot does not count by waving their arms and then crossing them out in front of them, indicating a clear indication to the players and spectators.

Depending on the situation, the referee might also point to the offending team or explain the reason for the call, like an offensive foul or a ball going out of bounds.

18. Start clock

In basketball, numerous instances occur when the game pauses and the clock ceases to run. Resumption only happens when a player on the court comes into contact with the ball.

Rather than relying on the timekeeper's discretion to halt the clock, the process involves waiting for a referee signal to initiate the clock. The referee keeps their hand raised until the appropriate moment, at which point they lower their arm, signaling the resumption of time.

19. Three point score

In basketball, a three-point score is signaled by the referee using distinct hand signals to communicate with players, coaches, and spectators.

When a player successfully makes a shot from beyond the three-point arc, the referee raises one arm straight up, forming an "L" shape with the forearm and upper arm.

The raised arm serves as a visual cue to indicate that the basket is worth three points. This signal helps everyone on the court and in the audience quickly recognize the scoring action and understand the point value assigned to the shot.

20. Holding Foul

In basketball, it is prohibited to seize an opponent by their jersey or any body part.

If such an action occurs, it results in a holding foul being called. The referee indicates a holding foul by forming a fist with one hand, extending that arm, and mimicking a "grabbing" motion with their other hand on the wrist.

Basketball Referee Signals: Learn What Each Hand Call Means

“There are Fouls and there are Violations.” Fouls occur by cause of prohibited physical contact (holding, pushing, etc) OR impermissible actions (mainly FAKING the actions such as hitting, smacking, colliding with an opponent) OR banned verbal slang (cussing, abusing, yelling).

Whereas, Violations occur subsequently by breaking the defined basketball rules such as Jump Ball, double dribble, walking, etc.

Both fouls and violations come with penalties. The calls for these penalties are given using “Hand signals” by the referees. Apart from penalties, numerous events occur in the basketball game and thence, a unique individual “hand sign” is defined and associated with each event and a penalty occurs, given by referees when needed.

Recommended to read: How to Become a NBA Referee

Why Are Hand Signals Used in Basketball? Purpose of Hand Signals

Hand Signals are the sole communication means of Referees to the Players on the court during the game. The non-verbal conveyance by the referees of the ‘foul or violation calls’ or ‘penalties’ is achieved by gestures of Hand-Signals.

The basketball court environment may get rowdy from fans cheering and music playing at times. Besides, the loud background due to the constant announcements by the game commentators may make challenging for the referees to speak and connect to the players. Thence, Hand signals are been considered and used for years to help make communication easier.

Further, hand signals benefit the team coaches by delivering their instructions to the players during the play such as to run the types of offense or defense, position them, play a specific move, etc. It’s also adapted by the players to communicate with each other as well.

Basketball Hand Signals: Breaking Down Each Referee Signal

The kinds and usage of hand signals fall into one of 4 categories, that are:

1. Foul Signals

2. Violation Signals

3. Time Management Signals

4. Hand Signal Indicators

Referee Foul Signals:

1. Player Control Foul / Charging Foul (Charge)

Occur: As a cause of excessive physical contact by the offender to redirect the defensive player in order to create space for himself to gain position or by hitting the defender using his elbow. Further, when an offensive player runs (into/over) the defensive player while he has already set his feet and established his position, the player control foul is said to be committed.

Consequence: Declare as a personal foul and will lead to a turnover. May also be outcomes in the free throws if the team finds accountability encountering exceeding the limit.

Hand Signal: The referee simply calls it by placing one hand on the back of their head and pointing in the opposite direction of the play.

2. Hand Check Foul

Occur: When a defensive player limits the movement/play of an offender by his hand in unallowed ways, the hand checked is called.

Hand Signal: Signaled by extending one arm in the air in front of the chest, opening the hand with fingers up, and the other hand grabbing the wrist of that arm.

3. Holding Foul

Occur : By virtue of illegal and forceful grabbing, holding, or pulling of an offensive by a defensive player. No matter be it an on-ball or an off-ball offender.

Hand Signal: The signal of holding foul is given by the referee by extending one arm upward in the upward direction with the palm closed and grabbed by another hand.

4. Pushing Foul

Occur: In the state an offensive player is being pushed by the defender. Pushes are usually made to hinder offense movement, steal passes and restrict the direction. The defender usually tries to bump into the body of the offense to achieve pushing.

Consequence: The pushes made in order to gain possession of the ball are considered Personal foul and result in the turnover of the ball.

Hand Signal: The referee extends both hands with palm facing outwardly, in a shoving motion.

5. Illegal Hand Use Foul

Occur: When a defensive player illicitly uses his hands to slap, smack or beat an offensive player usually with the ball.

Hand Signal: This type of foul is signaled by extending both arms in front of the waist in a V shape with elbows being outward and one hand grabbing the wrist of another arm by the referee.

6. Blocking Foul

Occur: Due to the un-allowed act by the defender of blocking the way of an offensive player in a wrongful manner. Blocking the path by setting illegal screens, running into the way of the offender, making excessive physical contact, hindering the offender’s path to the basket without setting the feet, and so on may lead to a blocking foul.

Consequence: If the ball handler’s team is in bonus, they get a free throw. If not, the ball is taken out-of-bounds from the sideline.

Hand Signal: The signal used to show a blocking foul has been made when the referee moves both hands, balled into fists, down against the hips.

7. Intentional Foul

Occur: An intentional foul is a purposely made foul usually played by the players while the game is ending to extend the game time by stopping the clock. Or there may be an intentional act of prohibited rules by either player of offense or defense.

Hand Signal: The upward arms above the head with crossed wrists is a sign of Intentional foul.

8. Technical Foul

Occur: Due to verbal violence by either coaches or the players. Abusing, cursing, and bad-screaming by coaches/players may sometimes encounter as a reason for a bad call by the referee. Moreover, the fight between the players on the court was also called a technical foul.

Consequence: When observed, the opposing team is awarded possession of the ball and one-free throw.

Hand Signal: “T” sign by the referee indicates a technical foul has been committed.

9. Double Foul

Occur: When two players come upon the foul at the same time, be it any kind of foul.

Hand Signal: The referee balls his hands into fists and extends horizontally in the outward direction on either side.

Referee Violation Signals:

1. Traveling (Walking/ Walk) Violation

Occur: In either case, that is, If the ball dribbler stops dribbling and takes too many steps/moves his pivot foot, Or the on-ball player redundantly takes steps while dribbling. Both outcomes in a violation call of Traveling or Walking.

Consequence: Turnover, The opponent team will get possession of the ball on the referee call.

Hand Signal: The referee balls ball both their hands into fists and rotate them in the circular/rolling motion upside down, bringing them in front of their waist.

2. Double Dribble (Illegal Dribble) Violation

Occur: When the on-ball player dribbles, pauses and then dribbles again. Another cause of violation involves the on-ball handler holding or dribbling the ball using both his hands.

Consequence: A turnover for the offense.

Hand Signal: Referring to the double dribble, the referee imitates the exact act by placing his both hands right in front of his waist with palms down and performing up and down motion exhibiting dribbling.

3. Backcourt Violation (Over and Back)

Occur: Once the offense passes the mid-court line and still dribbles or goes back over to the half-court line, the backcourt violation is said to be made.

Consequence: Possession of the ball the offense and gain by the opposing team.

Hand Signal: Over and Back signs will be made by the referee as a violation call.

4. Inbound Pass Violation (5-Second Violation)

Occur: When the player has to make an inbound. There is always a time restriction defined by the referee that the ball has to pass into the play, by the player, within the allotted 5 seconds. If the player fails to do so the violation whistle is blown by the referee.

Consequence: A Turnover.

Hand Signal: The sign, with all 5 fingers raised is made by the referee.

5. 10 Second Violation

Occur: In a situation, when the opponent successfully made an inbound and the other team has now 10 seconds to get the ball past half-court. If the team fails to get the ball in play and takes the time longer than defined, the team is called out for a 10-second violation commit.

Consequence: The referee will blow a play dead and the ball is awarded to the other team.

Hand Signal: Both hands up, with all 10 fingers raised.

6. 3 Second Violation

Occur: When an offensive player violates the rule by staying or being present in the Paint area for more than 3 seconds knowing it’s prohibited as per basketball rules.

Consequence: If the player is observed committing a 3-second violation the play is “blown dead” and possession of the ball is gained by another team.

Hand Signal: Signaled by the referee, by keeping one arm up with 3 fingers raised, 2 bent, and another arm straightly low.

7. Closely Guarded Violation (Does Not Apply to 1ST/2ND Grades)

Occur: When the offensive player has possession of the ball while being closely guarded by the defender the player is not allowed to hold the ball for more than 5 seconds. If the on-ball handler is observed holding/dribbling the ball for/more than 5 seconds, the call of violation will be made.

Consequence: Ball being awarded to another team.

Hand Signal: The referee motioned his one arm from the horizontal up to the vertical down position, back and forth.

8. Carrying or Palming The Ball Violation

Occur: Simply when the player tries to carry/hold the ball in the palm or scoop underneath it instead of dribbling correctly. The carrying violation is called.

Consequence: Turnover for the offense.

Hand Signal: Carrying is signaled when the referee flipped over from palm up to palm down.

9. Kickball (Kicking) Violation

Occur: As a result of the kick(usually intentional) by the offender either with his foot or leg.

Consequence: The defense gets a chance for an out-of-bounds throw-in by being awarded the ball by the referee. and you can read the basketball defense guide to know more about defense techniques and rules.

Hand Signal: The signal for a kicking violation is the same as the kicking act. That is, the referee raises one leg slightly up and performs the kicking motion.

10. Out of Bounds Violation

Occur: When during the gameplay, the ball or the player with possession of the ball goes out-of-bounds (i.e the sidelines/boundary lines).

Hand Signal: The referee simply points at the exact out-of-bound location/spot with the index finger.

Time Management Signals

1. jump ball (also called tie up or held ball).

Occur: In a situation when the two players from either team have handed over the ball at the same time. In such conditions, the referee uses the possession arrow to determine who gets the ball or the two exact players play the jump ball in order to decide who will be awarded the ball possession. The decision of the ball awarding however depends from league to league rules.

Hand Signal: The two thumps up of the referee indicate the call that the jump ball has occurred.

2. Timeout (Full and Thirty Second)

Occur: When either of the team requests a call for timeout which can be either 30 seconds or another, named full timeout.

Hand Signal: The signal designated for 30 seconds timeout is the referee posturing by putting both his hands over his shoulder, while the sign of “T” full timeout.

3. Start Clock/Stop Clock

Occur: On the official’s call that he’s ready to start the clock(hence start clock executes). While the clock has to be stopped on the referee’s call when he instructs(thence stop call executes).

Hand Signal: For starting the clock, the official raises one hand up and brings it down quickly. Further, For stopping the clock, the referee raises one arm up with their palm outwardly and stands immobile.

4. Substitution

Occur: Simply when an outside player needs to enter the game in the substitution of another player.

Hand Signal: The referee will raise one hand to the timekeeper in a “stop” motion and wave the other hand to the player to be substituted to enter the court for the play.

Hand Signal Indicators: Personal Foul Penalties

1. shooting foul (2 point shot).

Occur: In the scenario when the player gets ‘free throws to shoot’ as a cause of getting “fouled” while shooting. In the case, that the shot is already made by the player, he gets to shoot 1 free throw, on contrary, if the shot hasn’t been made yet and a foul is called, the player gets to shoot 2 free throws.

Hand Signals: The referee extends one arm parallel to the floor and points with two fingers.

2. Shooting Foul (3 Point Shot)

Occur: When the player gets “fouled” during a 3-point shot. If it’s after a shot is made, the player is awarded 1 free throw otherwise the player gets 3 free throws to shoot.

Hand Signal: The referee holds up three fingers in the air to give a signal for the 3-point shot.

3. Basket Counts/Doesn’t Count

Occur: When a successful basket is made(usually after a foul), the basket is counted. Else wise the shot doesn’t count as an outcome of the failed basket.

Hand Signal: For the basket being counted, the signal of balling up the hand and then punching downwards is made. In an uncounted bucket, the referees “wave off” the shot by placing one arm over the other in the air, elbow being outward, and hands out directly towards the side.

Though these hand signals are difficult to remember at times because of being numerous in numbers but being the constant player or viewer of the basketball, they are eventually memorized. However, can be trickier for a casual fan or spectator.

Basketball Traveling Rules

Traveling is a violation in basketball that occurs when a player takes too many steps without dribbling the ball. The usual rule of thumb is that a player may only take two steps without dribbling; three or more steps is a travel. However, in reality, this rule is much more complicated.

Traveling rules, traveling rules summary.

Traveling can be called whenever a player takes multiple steps without dribbling the ball. This can happen when a player receives the ball (while moving or stationary) or when a player starts dribbling. When a player stops dribbling, they must establish a pivot foot. A pivot foot may be turned side to side so that the player can move or find better angles, and it does not count as a travel as long as the chosen pivot foot is not lifted until the ball leaves the player’s hands.

A player may not pick up the ball, stop their dribble, and then resume dribbling. Once the ball is picked up, their options are to pass, shoot, or pivot. A pivot foot is the foot that must remain in the same spot on the floor. The other foot is allowed to move in any direction any number of times as long as the pivot foot remains put. If the pivot foot leaves the ground, it will result in a travel.

The pivot foot may move when passing or shooting, but the ball must be released before the pivot foot touches the ground again. A player can also move their pivot foot when dribbling, but the ball must be released before moving the pivot foot to avoid a traveling violation.

If a player receives the ball with two feet on the ground, either foot may be used as a pivot foot. If a player receives the ball in the air, whichever foot touches the ground first is the pivot foot. If a player receives the ball in the air and both feet hit the ground at the same time, either foot may be used as the pivot. This is known as a jump stop.

If a player is on the run and receives a pass mid-stride, they can come to a jump stop upon receiving the ball. After they stop, they must either pivot with one foot or start to dribble. A jump stop counts as one step. A player is allowed to use a pivot after a jump stop unless there was a step used to gather the ball before the jump stop occurred.

According to recent changes in the NBA rulebook, traveling rules and violations must account for steps taken while the player gathers the ball. This means that players are allowed a “gather step” to control the ball before the step count for a traveling violation can occur. The gather is defined as the point where a player puts two hands on the ball, causes the ball to pause or rest, or gains enough control of the ball to hold it, pass it, shoot it, or cradle it against their body .

Without dribbling, the first step to count towards a potential travel is the one taken immediately after the ball has been gathered. Anything past two steps after the ball has been gathered is considered traveling.

There are numerous situations in basketball that are considered traveling violations. Below is a list of examples that result in a travel:

A player holding the ball starts walking without dribbling.
A player receives a pass while running and takes three (or more) steps before dribbling .
A player lifts their pivot foot or drags it on the floor without passing, shooting, or dribbling first.
A player in possession of the ball falls to the ground.
A player on the ground, holding the ball, stands up without dribbling.
A player stops dribbling to shoot a layup, but they accidentally take a third step before releasing the ball.
A player takes a step and performs a jump stop incorrectly, with their feet hitting the ground at different times, resulting in two extra steps and a travel.
A player takes three steps after gathering the basketball .
A player airballs a shot and catches the ball without it touching the hoop or another player.
A player stops dribbling and passes the ball to themselves.
A player picks up their dribble, then resumes dribbling.

basketball referee hand signal traveling

The penalty for a traveling violation is a turnover to the other team. The other team will receive the ball at the out-of-bounds point closest to the spot where the travel occurred. The referee signals a traveling violation by rotating two fists around one another in front of their body. You may see fans, players, and coaches mimic this motion when they believe their opponent has committed a traveling violation.

Traveling occurs when a player takes more than two steps after dribbling
When a player stops dribbling, they have to establish a pivot foot
A travel occurs when the pivot foot is lifted
The first foot to land when a player performs a jump stop is the pivot foot
If both feet land at the same time, either foot can become a pivot foot
Taking any steps before dribbling the ball will result in a travel
A travel results in a turnover

What is traveling in basketball?

Traveling is a violation in basketball that happens when a player takes more than two steps without dribbling the ball. Only players in possession of the ball can be called for traveling. When the referee calls a travel, it results in a turnover and the ball being given to the opposing team. Traveling can occur in other unique situations, all regarding illegally moving with the ball without dribbling.

Is three steps a travel in basketball?

In basketball, a traveling violation will be called when a player takes three or more steps without stopping, dribbling, shooting, or passing the basketball. When driving to the basket or picking up the dribble while moving, the player will have two steps to complete one of these actions after gathering the ball. If a player takes a third step, they will be called for a travel, resulting in a turnover.

Is a jump stop a travel in basketball?

If done properly, a jump stop is not a travel in basketball. A jump stop is when an offensive player, either with possession of the ball or after receiving the ball, lands on both feet simultaneously. If a player is on the run and receives a pass mid-stride, they can come to a jump stop upon receiving the ball. After they stop, they can pivot with either foot or start to dribble.

Can you pivot after dribbling?

Yes, you are allowed to pivot after dribbling. When a player stops dribbling, they will typically keep one foot in place as a “pivot foot,” which they will not lift off the ground again until they no longer have possession of the ball. This allows them to pivot from side to side using that foot, either to take a shot or to find an open teammate to pass the ball to. As long as the pivot foot remains stationary, traveling will not be called.

Pages Related to Basketball Traveling Rules

Basketball Walking
Basketball Throw Ins
Double Dribble In Basketball
Basketball Substitutions
Basketball Timeouts
College Basketball Vs. NBA Rule Differences

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The Complete List of Basketball Hand Signals

At every basketball game, there will be one lead referee, along with one or two assistant referees. These officials ensure all rules of the game are enforced, and order is kept on the basketball court. Before the game, referees must confirm the starting line up as well as inspect all equipment and players’ uniforms.

Referees use hand signals during a basketball game to inform players, coaches, other officials, and the crowd of their decisions. When a call is made, the referee will blow the whistle and then use his/her arms and hands to signal a call. There are numerous referee signals that you should know.

Types of Referee Hand Signals

Referee signals for starting and stopping the clock.

There are five referee signals that are used for stopping and starting the clock. Players, coaches and the official timekeeper must keep a close eye out for these signals and understand them completely.

Starting the Clock Signal

The official raises his/her right hand and drops it to his/her side to signal the clock should be started. The referee will not blow a whistle for this signal.

Stopping the Clock Signal

When a referee lifts his/her right hand directly up and blows the whistle, the timekeeper should stop the clock. There are several reasons that the clock is stopped during a game including calling a foul, the basketball going out of bounds, calling time-outs, and free throws.

Jump Balls and Held Balls Signal

The referee will place both hands directly in front of himself/herself at chest level with both thumbs pointing upward. Then, the referee will raise both hands together and blow his/her whistle to signal that the clock should be stopped for a jump ball.

Foul Signals

A referee will signal a foul by lifting his/her right arm, forming a fist, and blowing the whistle.

Optional Bird Dog Signal for Fouls

The official blows the whistle, raises the right fist above his/her head, and extends the left hand horizontally to indicate a foul.

Informational Referee Signals

There are nine informational signals that are used during a basketball game. A referee will not blow the whistle with any of the following signals.

Directional Signal

The referee will extend his/her hand to one side of the court to indicate which team gets the ball if it goes out of bounds.

Spot of Violation Signal

A referee will point using his/her right hand to designate the spot for a throw in or a spot violation.

Move Along End Line on Throw in Signal

The referee will hold the ball in his/her right hand. The left hand will be placed on the right side of the neck and swipe towards the left.

Visible Count Signal

For this signal, the official bends his/her right arm towards the chest and then extends the arm straight out horizontally.

Beckoning Substitutes Signal

When a substitute is waiting to enter the game, the referee will raise his/her hand at a 45 degree angle and motion the player onto the court.

60 Second Time-Outs Signal

A referee indicates a 60 second time-out by folding his/her hands to the center of the chest and then extending the arms out horizontally.

30 Second Time-Outs Signal

A referee will lift his/her arms vertically, extend the elbows horizontally, and touch his/her fingertips to the shoulders.

Shooting/Scoring Referee Signals

There are several signals that referees use during scoring and shooting plays. The referee will not blow the whistle during these signals.

No Score Signal

The referee will cross his/her arms at chest level to signal a no-score play.

Goal Count Signal

The referee signals a goal by raising his/her fist above the shoulder and lowering the fist down to the waist.

Points Scored Signal

A referee will indicate that points are scored by extending both arms horizontally and using his/her fingers to indicate the number of points scored.

Field Goal Attempt

A referee will signal a field goal attempt by extending his/her right hand at an angle and holding up three fingers.

Three Point Field Goal Success Signal

If a field goal is successful, the referee will lift both hands above his/her head with the palms facing inward.

Bonus Free Throw Signal

For a bonus free throw, the referee will hold his/her hand horizontally and then lower the hand. For two bonus free throws, the referee will hold out two fingers, and for three free throws, three fingers will be held out.

Referee Signals for Violations

There are ten different violation signals. The referee blows his/her whistle when any of the following violations occur.

Delayed Lane Violation Signal

The referee will signal a delayed violation by extending a closed fist horizontally at shoulder level.

Traveling Signal

When a player travels without dribbling the ball, the referee will bend his/her elbows toward the chest with the fists closed and move them in a circular motion.

Illegal Dribble Signal

When the ball is dribbled illegally, the referee will hold his/her arms at waist level and lift and lower both hands as if dribbling.

Palming or Carrying the Ball Signal

When this violation occurs, the official will hold his/her right hand outward with the palm facing upward and then turn the hand towards the center of the body with the hand facing downward.

Backcourt Violation Signal

The referee will extend his/her right arm outwards at hip level, palm up, then arc the hand over at the waist with the palm pointing downward.

Three Second Violation Signal

The official will hold three fingers down at his/her side and lift the hand upward to chest level.

Five Second Violation Signal

A five second violation signal involves the referee holding his/her right arm up at chest level with all five fingers showing.

Ten Second Violation Signal

For a ten second violation signal, the referee will bend his/her elbows and hold both hands out, showing all ten fingers.

Excessive Elbow or Arm Swinging Signal

The referee makes a fist and holds it against his/her chest with the elbow pointed outward. Then, the official will swing the elbow and fist out until the fist is facing forward.

Kicking Violation Signal

When a kicking violation occurs, the official will lift his/her foot.

Referee Signals for Fouls

When a foul is committed on the court, the referee will blow his/her whistle and make one of the following ten hand signals.

Illegal Use of Hands

For illegal use of hands calls, the referee will cross his/her arms in front of himself/herself with fists closed and touch the right fist to the top of the left wrist.

A hand check signal is done by holding the right hand out and placing the left hand on the bend of the right elbow.

A holding signal involves bending the right arm with the fist facing upward and grabbing the forearm near the elbow with the left hand.

A blocking signal is done by placing both hands on the referee’s hips with the elbows pointing outward.

Pushing/Charging

For a pushing/charging foul, the referee will extend both hands at shoulder level with the palms outward.

Player Control Foul

A referee will signal a player control foul by touching the back of his/her head with the right hand.

Team Control Foul

A team control foul signal is done by extending the right arm straight out from the shoulder with the fist closed.

Intentional Foul

An intentional foul signal is shown by raising both hands above the head and crossing the fists.

Double Foul

A referee will signal a double foul by extending both arms horizontally at shoulder level with his/her fists closed pointing downward.

Technical Foul

A referee will signal a technical foul by forming a “T” with his/her hands, placing the left hand vertically and the right hand horizontally overtop.

Referees use hand signals and a whistle to let participants, fans, coaches and the officiating staff identify the calls he/she is making during a basketball game. It is vital that all players, along with coaches and assistant coaches, understand each of these hand signals before the team enters the court.

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[1] https://www.nfhs.org/media/1018454/2017-18_basketball_officials_signals.pdf

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5 Common Hand Signals in Basketball

Post by: Hoops Addict
Last updated on: May 4, 2023

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Every athlete on the court, from the first five to the substitution players, communicates efficiently with one another using technical hand signals. It can be hard to decipher the different hand signals and understand their meaning if you are still starting your way through basketball.

You do not need to bring down your hopes; this blog will educate you on the five most common hand signals used in basketball and explain their specific usage. After reading this post, you are expected to understand better what is going on within the court and be able to communicate better with your teammates.

What are Hand Signals in Basketball?

Since basketball is a team sport, players like you must sprint, jump, run, and pass the ball back and forth within the court. You must also communicate effectively with your teammates to play the game well—that is where basketball players come into the picture!

In other words, hand signals play a significant role in basketball since it allows players to quickly create a common ground on what should be the next move to do. If you aim to win a match, familiarize yourself with the tricky yet beneficial signals to be a responsible player on the court and make the right decisions.

In most cases, hand signals in basketball and their meanings are technically utilized or are easily understood by most basketball players as they are standardized. There are hand gestures that everyone generally accepts, so you need to be careful when using them because you might reveal your strategy unintentionally.

In contrast, you can develop your hand signals to divert opponents’ attention and prevent you from disclosing the next move you aim to perform. When a sign is team-centered, you can guarantee more immersive and personalized communication with your teammates on the court.

In general, there are five key hand signals: palm down, palm up, two fingers pointing upwards, one finger pointing downwards, and two fingers extending horizontally. Using these gestures varies based on different cases and situations.

Thus, the meanings and complexity of these signs will be delineated in the following sections, so keep reading!

Why are Hand Signals Important in Basketball?

Playing basketball is much more fun when everyone on the team is on the same page; that is why it is essential to know the common hand signals you will use while playing.

The primal importance of hand signals in basketball is that communication does wonder. Since basketball is strenuous and draining, it effectively communicates effortlessly, like making hand gestures to convey messages faster and easier to digest.

On the other hand, basketball officiating is a demanding and challenging job. One of the essential tools you have at your disposal is the hand signal. Knowing the correct hand signal will help speed up the game and improve your officiating skills. Make sure to study this index frequently to stay ahead of the curve!

Below are some reasons you should do hand signals more often to communicate with your team in your upcoming tournament.

Faster and Easier Communication

Basketball is a sport that utilizes every part of your musical group, hence making you exhausted faster than other physical activities. Since the goal is to score higher than the opponent, efficient communication is crucial in winning a match.

When you communicate well with your teammates, you are guaranteed to have typical dynamics within the court and perhaps increase your chances of winning over the other side of the bench.

Abidance by the Basketball Rules

Conversely, referees use hand signals to convey penalties, timeouts, scores, etc. Understanding the meanings of each hand signal the referee does will be a great advantage because you will surely understand what is happening around you.

Basketball referees hand signals numbers and other gestures to govern the players and ensure that the game is fair, just, and safe. When you understand what the referee is trying to communicate, you will be able to know whether your team deserves the call or not.

Maximize the Game Time

Every second in a basketball game is a holy grail, so hand signals expedite your connection with the members. In other words, the better your relationship with the team, the better your chances of winning the match.

Make sure to practice these signals regularly to look natural on the court. In addition, be vocal and precise when using them to let your teammates know exactly what to do.

What are the Different Basketball Hand Signals?

As a basketball player, you’ll know that it can be essential to communicate with your teammates to keep the game flowing smoothly. This blog section is about the different basketball hand signals, including a list of commonly used signs on the court.

By understanding and using these signals, you can better communicate with your teammates and help run the ball up the court. So do not miss out and read on to get started.

Blocking Signal

When someone is shooting a ball, and you want your teammate to block it, extend your arms once as if you are demonstrating a blocking someone on your end. In this case, you can alert your teammate if he is unsure whether the opponent is about to pass or shoot.

Shooting Signal

The simplest hand gesture you can do, shooting, is simply pointing the net with your index finger. You are permitting your teammate to make a basket shot. It might be one of the most important signs you need to master, be it standardized or developed by any of your team.

Timeout Hand Signal

A great player is not just great at defending the ball but also a monster regarding offensive moves. However, some instances call for a moment of break. Hence, it would be best if you also mastered hand signals to alert the referee that you are asking for a timeout.

What are the Different Basketball Hand Signals

5 Most Common Hand Signals in Officiating Basketball

Basketball is a game that heavily involves hand-eye coordination, so referees use a variety of hand signals to communicate with players and other officiating officials.

Remember, these signals vary depending on the situation and are critical for refereeing a game correctly and efficiently. Worry no more; here are the top five basketball officials’ hand signals:

Technical Foul

First, players, coaches, or a whole team who demonstrated unsportsmanlike conduct to an official are given technical fouls. Usually, it does not involve physical contact but is not limited to that case. With both hands positioned in a T shape, the referee signals to the player that he has been called for a technical foul.

Some signals are used universally in different cases, depending on the violation or foul you may commit. In the case of traveling hand signals in basketball, the referee clenches both fists and performs a rotating motion in front of their body to charge a player who violated the traveling rules.

Perhaps it is the most simple referee hand signal on this list. By definition, blocking is called when a defensive player makes illegal contact with an offensive opponent while trying to score a shot on the rim. When a blocking foul is charged, the referee will place both hands on his hips.

Personal Foul

To answer your confusion, technical and personal fouls differ. Personal fouls involve illegal physical contact with the opponent, intentional or not. The referee lays his hand close to the other hand with a closed fist to indicate that a player is given a personal foul.

Five Seconds Violation

Basketball involves a lot of guards, especially when you are an offensive player making your way through the ring. One of the significant challenges a basketball player encounters is to keep moving around to prevent them from getting charged with a five-second violation.

The hand signal for five seconds violation is just a piece of cake. First, the referee blows a whistle to alert everyone that a player on the court has committed a violation. Then, he will stick out his five fingers to specify that an offensive player breached the 5-second rule.

Wrapping Things Up: 5 Common Hand Signals in Basketball

If you are a basketball fan, you know all about hand signals and their importance in basketball games. Hand signals play an essential role in basketball because they help players communicate with each other on the court and can also be used for various purposes, like calling for a rebound or giving instructions to the player on the court.

Bad calls have the potential to turn a close game into an upset, which no one wants. As a result, knowing the signals a basketball referee uses to keep the game on track is always important. Since each movement has a distinct meaning, you will be able to understand the referee’s decisions without having to ask for a lot of time.

This blog also included a list of all the tips and expert understanding on the hand signals that you may encounter on the court. Begin learning the most common hand signals in basketball today!

We hope you enjoyed this post! If you did, be sure to check out our other basketball FAQ articles here.

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Hoops Addict

Hoops Addict was created to help basketball fans of all ages learn more about the sport and find the best basketball gear to improve their ability to hoop. He has been a huge basketball fan for decades, watching thousands of basketball games through the years to learn the ins and outs of the game.

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What Is A Travel In Basketball? NBA, NCAA, FIBA

Basketball is a game with so many rules that may vary regarding how competitive the level of competition is. Failure to follow these rules and regulations will prompt a game official or the referee to blow their whistles and penalize the team. One of the most prominent violations that are often called for is the traveling violation.

So, what is traveling in basketball, and how can a player avoid getting called with this violation?

Traveling is a violation called when a player illegally moves one or both feet while holding or dribbling the ball beyond the allowed steps. A typical example of traveling is a player who steps three times after gathering the ball. There are different traveling rules in various leagues today.

Now, let us explore what traveling is and how to avoid it.

Table of Contents

What is Traveling in Basketball?

Traveling, also called walking or simply ‘travel,’ is a violation in basketball. The most basic definition of traveling is taking three steps without dribbling the ball. Another common reason for traveling is lifting or moving the established ‘pivot’ foot without shooting or passing the ball – which we will discuss later.

There are other ways for a referee to call the violation if you’re not careful and depending on which league you are playing. The penalty for a traveling violation is a turnover or changing of the ball possession. For high-level players, it is embarrassing to be called with travel.

The universal hand signal for traveling is that the referee will place his hands one after the other in front of him while rolling or spinning.

Since a subjective referee calls many violations in basketball, there are still times when they will miss the right call for the violation.

Travel Rules in Different Levels of Basketball

While the traveling violation applies to all basketball leagues, there may still be some variations depending on the level of play they’re in. here are some:

The NBA is one of the world’s most prominent professional basketball leagues. However, even at that level, many players still commit traveling violations. According to the NBA Rule Book, here are some considerations and rules for traveling.

If a standing player receives the ball can still pivot.
A moving and dribbling player can take two additional steps to a stop – even without dribbling the ball. He may then choose to shoot or pass the ball.
If a player receives the ball while standing or coming to a legal stop, he must pass or shoot the ball before he can raise his pivot foot.
A player should shoot or pass the ball if he raises his pivot foot. Suppose he loses the ball in the air; he can’t touch the ball first.
If a player holding the ball falls to the ground, he can’t get an advantage by sliding on the floor.
If a player attempting to shoot the ball misses the basketball ring, the backboard, or another player (blocked), he can’t touch the ball first.
A player can’t pass to himself without the ball touching the ring, backboard, or another player (assist) .
A player can’t hop twice.

However, while these are the rules of the NBA, frequently, they are not appropriately enforced, especially for superstar players.

FIBA rules are the official guidelines for international basketball, aside from North America, which commonly follows the NBA, NCAA (college), and NFHS (high school) rules. These are some of the rules per FIBA Official Basketball Rules 2018.

For standing players receiving the ball with both feet on the ground:
The other foot automatically becomes the pivot foot if one foot is lifted.
If a standing player wants to dribble the ball after catching it, he can do so but still can’t lift his pivot foot.
He can pass or shoot the ball, but if he wants to jump with his pivot foot, he should not land again holding the ball.
Players catching the ball while he is moving or dribbling can still take two steps before coming to a complete stop, shooting, or passing the ball.
It is legal for players to fall or slide on the floor while holding the ball or trying to get possession of the ball.
It is illegal for players to roll or attempt to stand up while holding the ball.

NCAA is the governing body for collegiate competitions in the US and Canada. In basketball games, most travel rules are like the professional leagues, but with some variations.

A traveling violation happens if a player moves one or both feet in any direction up to a specific limit.
If a standing player with both feet on the court catches the ball and moves one foot, the other will automatically be the pivot foot.
It is traveling if a player falls to the floor without maintaining a pivot foot while holding the ball.

Common Examples of Traveling

If a player moving toward the basket gathers the ball and takes three steps.
If a player fails to release the ball during a jump shot attempt in fear of his shot getting blocked returns to the ground while still holding the ball.
If a player moves his established pivot foot in an attempt to move away from a defender.

What is the Pivot Foot?

The pivot foot is one of the offensive player’s feet that should always maintain contact with the ground. Since it is named with ‘pivot,’ a player can rotate or turn side to side using his other foot while always maintaining his pivot foot pinned to the ground.

A player can only lift his pivot foot if he is shooting or passing the ball. So, if a player jumps but fails to release the ball and his pivot foot touches the ground again, he will be called a traveling violation.

The best post players can use their pivot foot to their advantage to score near and around the basket. Some players who can best use their pivot foot to score are Hakeem Olajuwon, Michael Jordan, Carmelo Anthony, and Kobe Bryant.

What is a Gather Step in Basketball?

The ‘gather’ step is called the “zero steps,” or a “third step” after a player picks up their dribble. It has been legal in FIBA since 2018.

In 2019, the NBA revised its rule book to define gather concerning the traveling violation, which is:

Suppose a player receives a pass or takes control of a loose ball. In that case, the gathering happens when a player gets enough control of the ball, changes hands, passes, shoots, or even holds it against his body.
If a player is dribbling, the gather happens in one of these scenarios:
Puts two hands on the ball;
Puts a hand under the ball and stops it;
Or once he receives enough control for the ball to pass, shoot, or hold against his body.

The problem with the gather step is that many young players in high school or NCAA tries the gather step without knowing that it is illegal in their respective leagues.

4 Simple But Effective Tips to Avoid Traveling

1. Be mindful of your pivot foot.

Most traveling violations are called if a player moves his pivot foot illegally. So, learning to be more mindful of which foot to move will save you and your team a few turnovers due to traveling.

2. Don’t be afraid of getting blocked .

Blocked shots are routine in basketball, but some players are afraid to have their shot blocked, so they prefer to get a traveling violation instead.

3. Max of two steps.

Another common reason for traveling is to take more steps than required. Though some players can get away from mannerisms with their steps, it is still better to be careful with your steps.

4. Practice. Practice. Practice.

Like anything in basketball, a lot can be improved through practice. By practicing moving toward the ring and stepping only twice or mastering the pivot foot, in time, the habits will be incorporated into your game.

Some Clarifications Regarding Traveling

You will never travel while dribbling the ball. The height and steps per dribble are not necessary. Think of quicker NBA players who usually step at least three times in-between dribbles.
The step length is also irrelevant as long as the rules are followed. Think of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s two steps from the three-point line for a dunk .
There is no traveling during out-of-bounds or throw-in.
A player who has not fully controlled the ball, like fumbling, cannot be called for a traveling violation.

Traveling is one of the most common basketball violations, but it is easy to avoid if you know the rules of your game. Practicing proper mechanics in basketball like dribbling, footwork, and movements can be translated into actual actions during a game.

A traveling violation is not as simple as getting a turnover. In high-pressure moments, even NBA players were called traveling and lost crucial possessions.

Read these next:

What is an Illegal Screen in Basketball? Explanation + Tips
What is the Backcourt in Basketball: Term and Violation
What Does Bonus Plus Mean in Basketball: Simple Explanation

Basketball: Referee Signals

Referee basketball violations signals, referee basketball foul signals, other referee signals.

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5 Common Hand Signals In Basketball

Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the world. It is enjoyed by millions of people across all ages and cultures. As a team sport, communication plays an important role in helping players coordinate their efforts on the court. Hand signals are used to quickly communicate what type of play to run or what defensive strategy to use. This article will discuss five common hand signals that are often seen in basketball games .

The first signal we will discuss is called a “point” signal. This signal is used when a player wants to point out an open teammate on the court who can receive a pass. By pointing at them, they can quickly get the ball without any confusion or delay.

The second signal that we will look at is called a “cut” signal. This signal is used when a player wants to cut towards the basket or move away from it. It allows players to quickly move around without having to call out their movements, allowing for faster ball movement and better offensive execution.

Finally, we will look at three more signals: the “screen”, “switch” and “box out” signals. All of these signals have very specific meanings and give players on the court clearer instructions as to how they should be playing defense or running an offensive play. Understanding these hand signals can help teams coordinate their effort more effectively on both sides of the ball, leading to improved performance on court and ultimately greater success in competition.

The Pick And Roll Signal

Like a well-oiled machine, basketball players use hand signals to communicate with each other on the court. These subtle yet effective movements are like a secret code, allowing them to convey their intentions without alerting the opposition. One of these common hand signals is the pick and roll signal.

This signal is used to indicate when one player will pick and roll in order to get closer to the basket. The player who will be picking must place both hands below their waist, mimicking a rolling action with their fingertips as if they were rolling a ball down an imaginary lane. Meanwhile, the player who will be rolling needs to wave one arm up in the air – similar to signaling for a pass from another teammate – and point towards where they intend to move on the court.

Using this simple hand signal helps choreograph smooth plays between teammates by giving each partner in the play an understanding of what’s expected of them next. It also allows them to quickly adapt in changing circumstances without having to call out any verbal commands that could tip off their opponents. With this sign, teams can stay one step ahead of their competition and execute plays faster than ever before.

The Rebound Signal

The rebound signal is the second common hand signal used in basketball . It may be seen as a continuation of sorts to the pick and roll signal, representing the next logical step in offensive plays. To execute this one, two hands are raised high into the air, with the arms forming an ‘X’ shape. This is a clear indication to teammates that they should break away from their opponents and go for the rebound.

The importance of rebounding can’t be overstated; it’s one of the most important aspects of playing a successful game of basketball . Rebounding can help to turn defense into offense quickly, and gives your team more opportunities to score points . A successful rebound can also give a team multiple scoring chances in any given possession, making it an essential part of any team’s game plan.

The rebound signal is an easy way for players to communicate their intentions without having to shout or make any other loud noises that could distract their opponents. It allows them to focus on executing their play without worrying about being heard by opposing players and coaches . With this simple gesture, teams can set up effective plays and take advantage of every opportunity available in order to win games and championships!

The Fast Break Signal

The third common hand signal in basketball is the fast break signal. This signal is used to indicate when a team is ready to go on a fast break . It’s typically given by the point guard and can be done with one or two hands depending on the situation. The player who gives this signal will usually put both hands up in the air, with the palms facing upwards, and wave them forward. This indicates that all players should move quickly down the court and set up for an offensive attack.

When a team sees this particular hand signal, everyone needs to be ready to move quickly and set up for an opportunity for a score. All five players should be prepared to dash downcourt and take advantage of any openings that may appear as they make their way towards the basket. This means being aware of who has possession of the ball, who’s open, and who’s making moves towards their destination.

The fast break signal is often used when teams are trying to create turnovers and capitalize on quick transition opportunities. It’s important for teams to understand how vital it can be for them to keep their heads up, stay alert, and respond quickly so they don’t miss out on valuable scoring chances. With good communication between players through hand signals like these, teams can be sure they’re taking full advantage of every opportunity they have on offense. As such, it’s an essential part of any successful basketball game plan.

The next common hand signal in basketball is that of the cut signal which requires a different kind of preparation from players.. .

The Cut Signal

With a single wave of the hand, basketball players can communicate with one another in a split-second. It’s an often unnoticed language that can be used to give their team the edge in the game. This silent signal is known as “the cut signal” and it has become an essential part of every basketball player’s toolkit.

The cut signal is used to indicate when a player should move from one side of the court to the other without the ball. It helps a player to anticipate where they need to be, so they can be ready for an opportunity to score or receive a pass from a teammate. The cut signal is typically made by either raising both arms up or using circular motion with one hand.

In addition, this signal can also be used to set up screens on defense and create space for offensive players who have the ball. By being aware of teammates’ signals, it gives players an advantage over their opponents who are not expecting them to move in certain directions.

TIP: Keep your head on a swivel and pay attention to your teammates’ signals! Knowing what each one means will help you make smarter decisions on offense and defense, giving you an extra edge in the game.

The Switch Signal

The switch signal is an essential element of basketball communication. Contrasting with the cut signal, which communicates to a teammate to move in a certain direction, the switch signal emphasizes switching between different players on the court. It’s an effective way for players to keep their opponents guessing and can be used to great effect if executed properly. Here are some key points about the switch signal:

It sends a message to other players on the court that it’s time to switch roles and responsibilities.
It allows teams to control tempo and pace during a game by shifting defensive focus from one player to another.
It gives players an opportunity to exploit mismatches and create confusion amongst their opponents.

The importance of this signal cannot be overstated, as it gives teams a chance to adapt quickly and take advantage of opportunities that may arise during play . The ability of players to communicate non-verbally using hand signals is vital for success in basketball , making the switch signal an invaluable tool for any team looking for victory on the court.

The High-Low Signal

The sixth common hand signal in basketball is the high-low signal. This is used when a team wants to set up a play that involves passing the ball between two players. The point guard will hold their arm up and point at one player, indicating that they should receive the pass. Then, they will point down low to another player, signaling them to receive the next pass. It’s important for this signal to be communicated quickly and clearly so that both players know where to go at the same time .

This type of hand signal requires coordination within the team and trust between the point guard and other players on the court. It also helps if everyone on the team understands how it works and what it means so that everyone can react quickly when needed. This can also help create a sense of unity among players, as they know that they have each other’s backs in any situation.

The high-low signal is a great way to create opportunities for scoring or getting assists on offense. It can also give teams an edge defensively by allowing them to anticipate opponents’ movements on the court. With this hand signal, teams can strategize better and have more control over how they approach various situations during games and practices.

The Zone Signal

The zone signal in basketball is like a secret code between teammates – an intricate dance of hand signals that communicates the plan for defense . It’s a synchronization of movement that can be mesmerizing to watch, especially when done well.

The zone signal is typically used when the offense is initiating their play and can be used to alert teammates on the court about what type of defense they should use. For example, if one player points up with their index finger while simultaneously pointing down with their other hand, it signals to the rest of the team that they should switch into a zone defense . This hand signal helps players quickly adapt to the changing game without having to waste time calling out specific plays.

The effectiveness of the zone signal relies heavily on how well each teammate reads and interprets it – any miscommunication can lead to costly mistakes and missed opportunities. Therefore, it’s important that players familiarize themselves with this common hand signal so they can respond quickly and accurately during a game .

The Out Of Bounds Signal

The out of bounds signal is another common hand signal used in basketball. It’s important for players and referees to use this signal when a player has gone out of bounds, so everyone knows the ball should be given to the other team. To make the out of bounds signal, a player holds both hands up with palms facing outwards, then quickly moves them inwards to indicate the ball has gone out. Referees can also use this signal when they need to stop play due to an out of bounds situation.

This gesture is important because it shows everyone on the court that an infraction has occurred and where the ball should go next. It can prevent confusion and potentially dangerous situations if it’s done quickly and accurately. Additionally, coaches often use this gesture to indicate which player should be going for the out of bounds pass or who needs to move closer to the boundary line.

By knowing how to do this hand signal properly, players can make sure the game stays organized and safe for everyone involved. It’s also a great way for referees and coaches to communicate with their teams without having to shout or pause play each time they want to give instructions. With practice and understanding of how it works, players can become more efficient at using this gesture during games. Moving on from here, we’ll discuss another common hand signal known as ‘the help signal’.

The Help Signal

All eyes were on the court as two teams battled for the win . It was a heated game and everyone had their hands full. Before long, one of the players held up his hand in a way that looked like he was calling for help. This is known as the ‘help signal’ and it is one of many common hand signals in basketball that coaches and players use to communicate with each other effectively.

This signal is usually made by extending an arm towards a teammate while pointing to your chest with the other hand. The message being communicated is that you need assistance defending an opponent or covering a particular area of the court. The player giving this signal should be prepared to move quickly in order to receive help from their teammate, who will then take over their original assignment.

The help signal is often used when a team needs extra support on defense or when they’re trying to set up an offensive play . For example, if a guard needs help guarding their opponent, they can make this signal to request assistance from another player on their team . This could be particularly useful during crunch time when every point counts! By making this gesture, coaches and players can work together more seamlessly and increase their chances of success on the court.

With its clear meaning, the help signal has been helping teams strategize since basketball’s earliest days – and it’s still used today as an invaluable tool for coaches and players alike.

The Push Signal

The push signal is the tenth common hand signal in basketball. Just like the help signal, it’s an important way for players to communicate on the court. It involves a player holding up their hand and pushing it forward with an open palm, which indicates that they’re ready to receive a pass. This simple gesture can make all the difference for teams looking for an extra edge in their game.

Here are four key benefits of using the push signal:

It’s easily recognizable from afar, allowing teammates to quickly identify where they should be passing the ball;
It prevents inaccurate or errant passes;
It helps players stay focused and energized on the court;
It creates a sense of connection between teammates and allows them to work together more effectively.

Overall, the push signal is an effective way to ensure that your team has strong communication while playing basketball . By using this simple gesture, players can better understand one another’s intentions and coordinate their movements accordingly. With its many advantages, it’s no wonder why this hand signal has become so popular on courts around the world. Transitioning smoothly into the next common hand signal, let’s take a look at the switch screens signal.

The Switch Screens Signal

The push signal, and now the switch screens signal. These are two of the most commonly used hand signals in basketball: a reminder that the game has its own language, one which is just as intricate as it is exciting. Players use these signals to communicate with their teammates without needing to say a word, allowing them to move quickly and efficiently on the court.

The switch screens signal, for instance, is used to indicate when two teammates should switch positions and cover each other. One player will hold up both hands in “V” shape and make a swiping motion with their wrists while saying “switch”. This lets the other player know they need to immediately switch places with him or her so they can set up a pick-and-roll play or some other type of offensive strategy.

But hand signals in basketball don’t just apply to offense; they’re equally important when it comes to defense too . As such, coaches often use them during timeouts or halftime breaks in order to give their players clear instructions on how they want them to guard certain players or formations. With everyone on the same page and communicating effectively without words, teams can be more organized and successful on both sides of the court.

As an integral part of basketball culture, understanding hand signals like these can help players become better communicators and team leaders who can anticipate plays before they even happen. By mastering this unspoken language of basketball, athletes can take their game to the next level.

The Back Screen Signal

It’s important to know the common hand signals in basketball , but some might think that it is unnecessary for an average player. However, knowing these signals can help players become more aware of what their teammates are doing on the court and lead to better communication and collaboration.

The twelfth signal in the list is the back screen signal. The back screen signal is used when a teammate is cutting from one side of the court to another, and a defender is trying to stop them from getting open. To indicate this, the player initiating the back screen will raise their arm with their palm facing outward as if they were pushing against an invisible wall behind them. This lets their teammate know that they should cut into that space.

The back screen signal is essential because it helps players get past defenders without being blocked or fouled. It also allows for quick decision-making while still keeping within the rules of basketball. By using this signal, teams can move quickly yet remain organized on offense and defense alike. With its combination of speed and efficiency, it’s no wonder why this has become such a popular way of communicating on the court.

With knowledge of this signal, teams can make sure each member understands what’s going on so they can work together more effectively and efficiently during games or practice sessions. Knowing how to use it properly will make any team a force to be reckoned with on the court – now let’s take a look at ‘the ball screen signal’.

The Ball Screen Signal

The 13th common hand signal in basketball is the ball screen signal. This signal communicates that a player is going to set a screen for their teammate’s defender and ‘roll’ or ‘pop’, depending on the play. It involves both hands coming together in the middle of the body, with thumbs crossed and fingers pointing outwards.

To execute this signal properly:

The player should cross their thumbs together in the middle of their body;
Their fingers should be pointing outwards;
The player should then raise their arms up as if they were setting a screen.

This gesture can be used to indicate a variety of actions, such as setting a screen for another player or creating space for a shot by popping out beyond the 3-point line . As it can be used for multiple purposes, it’s important to watch teammates closely so that everyone is on the same page and knows what is happening during the game . Therefore, this hand signal helps coordinate team movements effectively and efficiently on court. With this knowledge, players will be able to move better as one cohesive unit.

The Open Up Signal

The Open Up Signal is the ultimate call of freedom on the court. It serves as a beacon of hope for players, symbolizing their liberation from tight-knit defense. This sign is truly a ray of sunshine in the heat of competition.

Like a butterfly emerging from its cocoon, so too does the open up signal signify an opportunity for players to expand their wings and soar, taking them closer to victory. The open up signal instructs players to spread out on offense, allowing them to increase their chances of scoring points:

Spread apart from each other
Make room for potential passes
Utilize space on the court
Create lanes for drives or shots.

By following these four simple steps, teams can capitalize on the open up signal’s promise of freedom and explore new avenues of attack that could lead to success. With this knowledge in hand, players can take advantage of newfound opportunities and move one step closer towards achieving their goals on the court .

The Go Signal

Actions speak louder than words – and this is especially true in basketball. Players often communicate with their team mates on the court using hand signals. The go signal is one of these common hand signals.

The go signal is used to indicate that a teammate should make a move or cut towards the basket. It can be done either with one hand, or both hands extended in the direction of the cut. The motion should be smooth and continuous, without any jerking movements. It’s usually accompanied by a verbal cue, such as “Go!” or “Cut!”

The go signal is an invaluable tool for players on the court. It allows them to quickly communicate with their team mates while avoiding confusion and miscommunication. This makes it easier for teams to run plays effectively and score points. As such, it’s important for all players to understand how to correctly use this sign when playing basketball .

Basketball is a sport that relies heavily on communication between players . It’s important to understand the various hand signals used in the game, as they can help players work together and make sure everyone is on the same page. Knowing these common hand signals is invaluable for any player looking to become successful in basketball .

For example, according to research conducted by the National Basketball Association (NBA), teams that have a well-executed pick and roll signal have a four times higher chance of scoring than teams that do not use it. This statistic emphasizes how crucial it is for coaches and players to be familiar with the various hand signals used in basketball so they can maximize their chances of success.

In conclusion, understanding the five common hand signals in basketball can be beneficial for both coaches and players alike. By being aware of these signals and implementing them into their game strategy, teams can increase their odds of success significantly. It’s also important to keep in mind that there are other useful hand signals beyond those listed here, so it’s worth looking into how each one works and how it can help your team succeed.

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Post author: thehoopblog
Post published: March 27, 2023
Post category: Buyer’s Guide
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Post last modified: March 27, 2023
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What is Traveling in Basketball? (Explanation & Examples)

Traveling in basketball is a violation that regularly confuses people.

This isn’t all that surprising considering the rule is slightly different at the top level of basketball.

Unsurprisingly, this leads to frequent debates about whether a specific move is or is not a travel.

For example, the “ euro step ” and the “step through” frequently lead to online disagreements.

Now it’s time to end the confusion…

Below, I’ll break down exactly what traveling is in basketball.

What is Traveling in Basketball?

Here's a simple definition:

Traveling is a violation that involves illegally moving one or both feet while in possession.

In basketball, players cannot take more than two steps with the basketball in their hands.

(Unless they’re dribbling, of course)

If a player ever takes more than two steps while they have the ball, they’ll be called for traveling.

Here's a great video that goes more in-depth on the FIBA rules for traveling:

The Pivot Foot

Players establish a “ pivot foot ” when they aren’t dribbling the basketball. This is the foot that IS NOT allowed to move when the player is stationary and in possession of the ball.

Players can spin on their pivot foot, but it must remain in the same location and cannot be slid.

Players ARE ALLOWED to lift the pivot foot off the ground, but the ball must leave their hands BEFORE their pivot foot returns to the floor. Meaning they must either shoot or pass.

Why is Traveling Illegal?

To put it simply…

The traveling rule is in place to give the defensive team a fighting chance.

Think about it like this:

If the offensive team could sprint without dribbling, take unlimited steps, and change their pivot foot whenever they wish, the defensive team would have NO CHANCE of stopping the ball.

So, certain rules have been implemented to minimize the offense’s advantage.

Such as the double dribble violation , back-court violation, and traveling violation.

What’s the Penalty for Traveling?

Similar to a double dribble, traveling results in a dead-ball turnover by the offense.

At the college level and below, the defense will receive the ball and throw it in from the sideline or baseline, close to where the traveling violation occurred.

In the NBA, the ball is required to be inbounded between the free throw line and the baseline.

Other Examples of a Traveling Violation:

The two most common ways to be called for traveling in basketball are for taking more than two steps or for incorrect use of the pivot foot.

However, there are other ways to be called for traveling.

These include:

1. Rolling on the Floor

If a player is in possession of the basketball on the floor and they roll over with it, this will be deemed a traveling violation.

2. Jumping While in Possession

Commonly referred to as ‘up and down.’ If a player leaves their feet with the basketball (jumps in the air), they must pass or shoot it before either foot touches the ground again.

3. Passing to Oneself

If a player has possession and makes a pass to themselves (accidentally or intentionally) without any other player touching the ball, this is deemed a traveling violation.

4. Falling Down

When a player in possession of the basketball falls to the floor without a foul being committed, they will be called for a traveling violation as their pivot foot would have left the floor.

5. Sliding the Pivot Foot

Even if the pivot foot doesn’t “technically” come off of the ground, it must stay in the same spot on the floor. Sliding or dragging the pivot foot is prohibited and will be deemed a travel.

6. Stepping Before Dribbling

This is one of the most common traveling violations that you‘ll see called. When a player takes their first step, the basketball must touch the floor before their pivot foot returns to the floor.

7. Attempting to Get Up Without Dribbling

If a player has possession of the ball while on the floor, they cannot get back up with the ball unless they are dribbling. If a player stands up with the ball and they’re not, it will be called a travel.

8. Shuffling of the Feet

When a player catches the ball (especially young players), they will sometimes accidentally “shuffle” their feet. This involves moving the pivot foot, so it will be deemed a traveling violation.

Are Traveling Rules Actually Enforced?

As basketball is such a fast-paced game, catching every single traveling violation is difficult.

Especially for referees with only a few seasons of experience.

Critics of the NBA often claim that traveling is not called as often as it should be. But many of these critics aren’t aware that the NBA’s definition of traveling is slightly different than other levels. The NBA’s traveling definition is eight parts and incorporates the “ gather step .”

That said... referees are human and occasionally overlook the obvious ones:

Humor aside, if a traveling violation is missed, it’s typically because the pace of the game is so fast that the referee didn’t see it or wasn’t confident enough to make the call.

So don’t be surprised to see a few calls missed each game, as it’s such a split-second decision.

As for travels at the youth basketball level...

Referees may not be as strict on each traveling violation.

At that age, if every traveling violation was called, there would be a whistle every 5 - 7 seconds… and that’d be no fun at all.

That said, referees shouldn’t let young kids get away with everything, either…

There needs to be a balance on how much traveling is called vs let go.

As players get older, referees can and should get more strict.

Teaching Players to Avoid Traveling

For kids, figuring out the correct footwork to avoid traveling can be a long process.

At a basketball game with beginners, here are a few things you might see:

A player starts running without dribbling the ball
A player accidentally switching their pivot foot while in possession
A player shuffling their feet to create space so they can pass to a teammate

“How can you team players to avoid these mistakes?”

At practices and before games, explain what a travel is and how to use a pivot foot.

When players do commit traveling violations (in practices or games), stop them and explain what they wrong, and how they can make sure to avoid that mistake in the future.

Not only does this help the player who committed the violation, but it also helps the other players who are listening as they get more reinforcement on common mistakes and what the rules are.

Will there be a lot of stoppages at the beginning?

Absolutely -- but it’s the only way for players to learn and improve.

There are also simple drills you can use at practice that work on dribbling, jump stops, and using a pivot foot. These are all fundamental skills that are necessary for players to avoid traveling.

“Traveling” in basketball is a violation that’s called when a player uses incorrect footwork.

Whether that’s taking an extra step to gain an advantage, or simply an accidental shuffle of the feet while trying to find an open teammate to pass to.

It’s a violation that will happen at least a couple of times in most games, and a coach should not gloss over it if the same type of violation occurs frequently.

Avoiding traveling is a way for teams to keep possession and get more opportunities to score.

With proper guidance in practice, players will fix their footwork and avoid traveling.

Further Reading: Basketball Rules and Regulations (Updated Version)

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