Skip to main contentToggle navigationYankee Clipper CouncilFIBA, NCAA and NFHSSeptember 22, 2016September 22, 2016  usaLeave a commentFIBA, NCAA and NFHSI have decided to include this section as I have been getting several questions about the rules of basketball. After reading messages posted on forums around the world, it seems that many, many people ask the same questions. Therefore, I hope that this FAQ will help people that have common questions. I will also post any questions that are a little bit different.If you have any questions regarding the rules of basketball – please email me by clicking here. If your question is not related to the FIBA (international) rules, it might take a little bit longer to get a reply. However, I promise that all questions will be answered, both personally, and by posting the question and answer on this page.Also, if you disagree with my interpretation of the rules for any of the answers that I have given – please email me with your opinion. One of the major reasons I designed this site was to educate referees and this includes myself – so if I’m wrong – tell me (nicely!).Ben Hughes asked: Is the hand still considered part of the ball? A little birdie told me that this rule had changed.Answer: Well, yes and no. In the most recent rule changes, the specific comment that the hand was part of the ball (when in contact with the ball) was removed. However, after a great deal of complaints, questions and other comments, the official interpretation of the rules has been to re-introduce the idea that the hand is part of the ball. Having said that, the official word from FIBA is that if the referee has any doubt as to where the contact occurred (i.e. on the hand in contact with the ball versus say, the wrist) the referee must call a foul.In other words, yes the hand is still part of the ball, but the official must be certain that the contact by the defender was on the part of the players hand which was in contact with the ball. If there is any uncertainty – FOUL!From Simon Dunn: Where do you find a written rule about defensive players (not being able to draw charges) under the basket?Answer: Simon – this is a popular misconception. There is no rule in FIBA that prevents a player from drawing a charge if he is standing under the basket. However, this rule does exist in the NBA (and I think in the NBL as well). It is accepted at this level that the defensive player has not been placed at a disadvantage as there is no rebound to contest, hence, generally the foul is called if the basket is unsuccessful. (Thanks to irunlikeagirl for his input).Another one from Simon Dunn: Who ensures that the game starts at the correct time? And what can be done if a game is found to have started earlier than the scheduled time?Answer: Simon, this is a bit of an awkward situation. Officially, the referees are responsible for the commencement of the game at the appropriate time. However, since refere