Basketball Rules Guide
Complete guide to FIBA, NBA, NCAA, and 3x3 basketball rules
Understanding the differences between basketball rule sets is essential for players, coaches, and scorekeepers. This guide covers the major rule variations you need to know.
FIBA Rules (International)
Used in Olympics, World Cup, and most international competitions
Game Length4 quarters × 10 minutes = 40 minutes
Shot Clock24 seconds (reset to 14 after offensive rebound)
Three-Point Line6.75 meters (22.15 feet)
Team Fouls5 fouls per quarter triggers bonus free throws
Personal Fouls5 fouls = disqualification
Timeouts2 in first half, 3 in second half, 1 per overtime
Overtime5 minutes per overtime period
NBA Rules
Professional basketball in North America
Game Length4 quarters × 12 minutes = 48 minutes
Shot Clock24 seconds (reset to 14 after offensive rebound)
Three-Point Line7.24 meters (23.75 feet), 6.7m at corners
Team Fouls5 fouls per quarter triggers bonus
Personal Fouls6 fouls = disqualification
Timeouts7 timeouts per game (4 in 4th quarter max)
Overtime5 minutes, 2 timeouts per team
NCAA Rules (College Basketball)
American college basketball rules
Game Length2 halves × 20 minutes = 40 minutes
Shot Clock30 seconds (men), 30 seconds (women)
Three-Point Line6.75 meters (22.15 feet)
Team Fouls7 fouls = one-and-one, 10 fouls = double bonus
Personal Fouls5 fouls = disqualification
Timeouts4 timeouts (3 30-second, 1 60-second)
Overtime5 minutes per overtime period
3x3 Basketball Rules
Fast-paced half-court game, Olympic sport since 2020
Game Length10 minutes or first to 21 points
Shot Clock12 seconds
Scoring1 point inside arc, 2 points outside arc
Team Fouls7 fouls = 2 free throws, 10+ = 2 FT + possession
Personal Fouls4 fouls = disqualification
Timeouts1 timeout per team
OvertimeFirst team to score 2 points wins
Quick Comparison Table
| Rule | FIBA | NBA | NCAA | 3x3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quarter/Half Length | 10 min | 12 min | 20 min (half) | 10 min total |
| Shot Clock | 24 sec | 24 sec | 30 sec | 12 sec |
| Fouls to Foul Out | 5 | 6 | 5 | 4 |
| 3-Point Distance | 6.75m | 7.24m | 6.75m | 6.75m |
| Bonus Free Throws | 5th foul | 5th foul | 7th foul | 7th foul |
Scorekeeper Tips
- ✓Always confirm the rule set before the game starts
- ✓Track team fouls separately for each quarter/half
- ✓Reset team fouls at the start of each period (except NCAA halves)
- ✓Announce bonus status clearly to both teams
- ✓Keep a running timeline of all scoring plays for disputes