FIBA REFEREES

MANUAL
INDIVIDUAL OFFICIATING
TECHNIQUES (IOT)
VERSION 1.2
 This Referees Manual is based on
FIBA Official Basketball Rules 2020.
In case of discrepancy between different
language editions on the meaning or
interpretation of a word or phrase,
the English text prevails.
The content cannot be modified
and presented with the FIBA logo,
without written permission from the
FIBA Referee Operations.
Throughout the Referees Manual, all
references made to a player, coach, referee,
etc., in the male gender also apply to the
female gender. It must be understood that
this is done for practical reasons only.

May 2022,
All Rights Reserved.

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Fax: +41 22 545 00 99

This material is created by the

FIBA Referee Operations.
If you identify an error or a discrepancy in
this material,please notify the FIBA Referee
Operations at refereeing@fiba.basketball

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FOREWORD
Basketball, as a game, is progressing in skill and speed every day. It is a natural environmental
development process that takes place unconditionally and it is called evolution. The game and more so
refereeing has completely changed from 10 years ago. Presently, top level refereeing is improving at
least at the same speed as the game itself and higher standards of performance are expected every
year. The pace of change has necessitated the adoption of a motto: “What was considered exceptionally
good yesterday, is considered standard quality today and below average quality tomorrow”.
This manual complements other FIBA technical manuals for officiating. The Individual Officiating
Techniques (IOT) Manual provides the foundation of successful basketball refereeing, namely to
referee one play situation at a time.
The content in this IOT Manual content should be considered as a basic standard of mechanical and
technical procedures that are executed individually on the court and every referee at FIBA level should
have the detailed know-how.
To enhance the IOT skills, referees are expected to train and practice these techniques in their own
time, both on and off the court. This should be done in pursuit of mastering your skills - remembering
of course that thousands of repetitions are needed to develop muscle memory. This makes the
difference between a good referee and a top elite level referee and generates a standard operational
level regardless of the games or environment.
In addition FIBA Referee Operations produce a variety of supporting material, namely “Improve Your”
series (for example ‘Improve Your Lead Positioning’). These guides provide more insight and details on
how to work with the content mentioned in this manual.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
FOREWORD

CHAPTER 1
1. GENERAL 7
1.1 Basketball officiating 7
1.2 Image of an elite basketball referee 7

CHAPTER 2
2. INDIVIDUAL OFFICIATING TECHNIQUES (IOT) 9
2.1 Introduction 9
2.2 Distance & stationary 10
2.3 Refereeing the defence 11
2.4 Stay with the play 11
2.5 Positioning, open angle (45°) and adjustments 12
2.6 Pre-game conference and use of FIBA iRef PG App 13
2.7 Making a call, decision making and communication 14
2.8 Signals & reporting 15
2.9 Jump ball / active referee (tossing the ball) 17
2.10 Jump ball / non-active referee(s) 17
2.11 Covering a shot (protect the shooter) 18
2.12 Throw-in administration (general & frontcourt endline) 19
2.13 Fake a foul 21
2.14 Control of the game and shot clock 22

CHAPTER 3
3. SUPPORTING MATERIAL 27
3.1 Official Referees’ Signals 27
3.2 Basic basketball officiating terminology 35

Updates
v1.2 2.12.1 Warning Whistle added
2.14 Clock procedures added
Diagrams updated

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GENERAL
CHAPTER 1
1. GENERAL
1.1 BASKETBALL OFFICIATING
Generally, sports officiating is challenging and more so in the game of basketball – especially where
ten athletic players are moving fast in a restricted area. Naturally the game has changed and the
court has actually become larger, not in actual court size but in the playing and refereeing sense. Play
situations are spread all over the court with every player able to play in almost every position. Naturally
this sets a new requirement for basketball refereeing. It is good to remember that improving daily
should not be considered as actual progress but rather is only designed to keep pace with the game’s
development – this is called evolution and this will occur regardless if we want it or not.
Sometimes there is a tendency to define basketball officiating as a very complex combination of
various skills. It is true it requires many abilities by the referee, but the bottom line is that all these skills
aim to achieve one thing - being ready to referee the play or handle situations that may arise during
the game. All the training should focus on game preparation to assist referees to address various
situations in games.
Refereeing is:
Anticipate what will happen — Active mind-set
Understand what is happening — Basketball knowledge
React properly for what has happened — Mental Image Training

1.2 IMAGE OF AN ELITE BASKETBALL REFEREE

FIBA has one golden rule when it comes to prioritising for referee training for FIBA games - Game
Control. That is ensuring a smooth running and dynamic game where players are able to showcase
their basketball skills. This is the image FIBA is looking for. The two or three appointed referees are the
ones who are responsible for this game control.
It is good to define and remember that game control is different to game management. Ultimately, it
is the Referees that are in charge of the game. They define what is allowed and what is not – nobody
else.
Having said that, it is equally important that referees look and act like they are in charge. Referees
should give a non-verbal message that they are ready and able to make decisions. The core function of
refereeing is decision making. Referees need to feel comfortable in making decisions without hesitation
in the decision making process. Of course, the correctness of these decisions can be analysed after
the event and so referees must demonstrate confidence and trust or at the very least present so that
others view them this way (perception).
Therefore, FIBA has added the topic of “court presence” to its training program. It includes mental
training with an “I am in charge” concept. This will be combined with a physical training plan to create
an image of a strong and athletic body, fitting into the image of professionalism and promoting game
control.

“Controlling is an attitude”

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 BASIC
INDIVIDUAL OFFICIATING
TECHNIQUES (IOT)
CHAPTER 2
2. INDIVIDUAL OFFICIATING TECHNIQUES (IOT)
2.1 INTRODUCTION
Individual Officiating Techniques (IOT) is the most important foundation for either 2 Person Officiating
(2PO) or 3 Person Officiating (3PO). It is evident that in the past 15 years there has been a heavy focus
on 3PO (namely for the mechanical movements of the referees on the floor). This has led to a lack of
knowledge in how to actually referee individual play phases in the game – this being the fundamental
skills that referees need to possess in order to process and facilitate the correct decision. These are
inherent skills of IOT and are similarly relevant to both 2PO and 3PO.

In analysing play phases and calling the game, some basic principles are necessary to follow:
Have proper distance from the play – keeping an open angle
and remaining stationary. Do not move too close to the play and Distance & Stationary
narrow your field of vision.
The priority of the referee in an on ball competitive match-up is to
focus the attention on the illegality of the defensive player whilst Referee the defence
keeping the offensive ball handler in your field of vision.

Always look for illegal actions to call. Active mind-set

Have the key players (1on1) or as many players as possible in your

45° and Open angle
field of vision in order to see any illegal action.

Understand when the play has ended so you can move to the Stay with the play
next play –mentally / physically. until it is over

The lack of adhering to the above mentioned principles are the main reasons for wrong decisions being
made on the floor. Simple as that!
When referees are able to have proper primary coverage for all obvious plays, it will substantially
increase the quality of refereeing. These obvious plays, if missed, are the determining factors in
peoples’ mind as to what constitutes an acceptable level of officiating.

“Primary Coverage in Obvious Plays”

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2.2 DISTANCE & STATIONARY
Target: To identify and understand the key points and impact of maintaining a proper distance from the
play and being stationary when refereeing competitive match ups.
Many referees have the tendency to think that moving up and down the court and being very close to
the play helps them to make correct decisions.
Therefore, we need to understand and focus on these two main issues:
1. Distance - When refereeing the play, it is important to maintain an appropriate distance from
the play, without getting too close. The referee can lose perspective, as all movements appear
to look faster. Imagine yourself watching the game from the upper deck of the stand and you
will see that the players’ movements look slower than at the court level. They only appear to
look that way, but obviously they are not.
2. Stationary - Often referees that are engaged with the play are not conscious as to whether
they are moving or not when the action starts. It is common sense that if we want to focus on
something it is best to do so whilst stationary. These same two principles apply to refereeing.
If a referee has the proper distance from the play (3-6 meters):
a. The possibility of an emotional or reaction call decreases.
b. He can maintain a perspective as movements look slower
c. He can maintain a wide angle, which increases the possibility of seeing more players in the field
of vision.
d. He is able to see the big picture (next plays to follow, control the clocks, identify where partners)
If a referee is stationary when he is making a judgment:
a. His eyes are not bouncing and concentration increases
b. A correct decision is more likely due to being focused and concentrated.
It is important that a referee must move to be in the right position to see the gap (this is different than
position adjustment); and must do so as quickly as possible. Stop, Observe and Decide.

Diagram 1:
Proper distance creates wider angle and the
referee is able to have more players in his field
of vision at the same time. Example in the first
row 2 players, second row 3 players, third row
4 players, etc. Totally 26 players out of 36 (72%).

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2.3 REFEREEING THE DEFENCE
Target: To identify the primary focus when analysing a 1 on 1 play.
The concept of refereeing the defence is one of the corner stones for accurate basketball refereeing.
Essentially, it means that the priority of the referee in an on ball competitive match-up is to focus the
attention on the illegality of the defensive player whilst keeping the offensive ball handler in your field
of vision. The referee is required to get into a position that allows them to clearly see the defensive
player.
Note: We are not refereeing the space between the players, we are refereeing the defence itself - but you need
to have a position where you see the space between players in order to referee the defence.

When refereeing on ball focus your attention

on the illegality of the defensive player!

2.4 STAY WITH THE PLAY

Target: To understand how to increase quality control in play situations.
On occasions, referees miss an obvious foul. Unfortunately, it often looks like the only persons in the
arena who missed the obvious foul were the two or three persons on the court who have the whistle.
The key to correctly calling these obvious plays is by adopting a professional discipline – that is to be
patient and careful every time you referee the play. It is expected referees will “stay with the play until
the end of action” (that is keeping your eyes and attention on the play until it has ended).
Practically, referees need to implement strategies:
a. mentally focussing on the defender until the play has come to its end e.g. shooter has landed, in
penetration defender has landed.
b. physically do not start to move. Trail / Centre stepping backwards on the shot – has the potential
for the referee to mentally release the play before ball has entered the basket or the defensive
team has gained control of the rebound.

Processing the play (Patient Whistle)

Before blowing their whistle referees should process the entire play from the start - through the
development - until the end before making a call. This will produce more analytical decision instead of
only seeing the end of the play and reacting to it (emotional decision).

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2.5 POSITIONING, OPEN ANGLE (45°) AND ADJUSTMENTS
Target: To understand the impact and technique of maximising the number of the players within your
field of vision at all times.
It has been stated that referees must always look for illegal actions (something to call). Logically,
if a referee has more players in his field of vision, the chances of seeing illegal actions dramatically
increase. Namely, those referees who have positioned themselves on the court with proper distance
and a wide open angle, are more likely to have a higher level of accuracy thus leading to a higher
standard of performance.
Analysis proves that the concept of maintaining an open angle is not necessarily well understood by
referees. Often referees who have established an open angle, unnecessarily move again, losing the
open angle and becoming straight lined on the play.
A second key principle is to have both Lead (L) and Trail (T) on the edge of the play (players and ball).
This way referees are able to maintain as many players as possible in their field of vision. As a result,
it is important for Lead to move on the baseline with ball (mirroring the ball) and for Trail to always
be behind the play (between the last player and basket in the backcourt). The following diagram
demonstrates the advantage of being at the “edge of the play” and having a 45° angle).

Diagram 2:
It is important to find a position and angle on
the court where the referee is able to observe
as many players as possible. If you compare the
number of the players covered with Diagram 1,
you will find that with 45° and an “edge of the
play” adjustment, a total of 32 players out of 36
(89%) are covered at the same time.

The principles for positioning and open angle are:

a. Move to the right spot and establish the open angle
b. Anticipate (mentally one step ahead of the play) where you need to be
c. Adjust to the play to maintain the open angle (step here, step there)
d. Always move with a purpose, know where you need to go and why
e. Go where ever you need to go to be in the position to referee the play (different to the Working
Area)
f. If the initial position is correct – there is a less need to move, but do not be STATIC (you need to
adjust all the time according to the play and players’ movement).

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2.6 PRE-GAME CONFERENCE AND USE OF FIBA IREF PG APP
Target: To know the topics that have to be covered during the pre-game conference and what
functionalities are offered by the App.
A pre-game conference is absolutely necessary. The concept is to ensure you and your partner(s) are
on the same page when officiating together. This promotes good teamwork and good officiating.
Some general topics for pre-game discussion are:
1. Know your areas of responsibility on the floor and avoid having both referees watch the ball and
the players immediately surrounding it.
2. Referee the play away from the ball when it is your primary responsibility.
3. With double calls, establish eye contact with your partner before proceeding with your signal.
Remember: The referee nearest to the play or towards whom the play is moving shall have
primary responsibility.
4. Give help when required on out-of-bounds situations, but only when requested to do so by your
partner. Get into the habit of establishing eye contact.
5. Try to know at all times, not only where the ball and all the players are located, but also the
location of your partner.
6. In fast break situations, especially where the offensive players outnumber those on defence, let
the nearest referee make the decision on whether or not to call the foul. Avoid the temptation
to make a call when you are ten (10) metres or more away from the action.
7. Blow your whistle for a foul only when it has an effect on the action. Incidental–marginal
contact should be ignored.
8. Establish your standards early in the game. The game will become easier to control. Rough and
over-aggressive play must always be penalized. The players will adjust to the way you allow
them to play.
9. Try to maintain the best possible position and a wide angle of vision between the defensive and
offensive players. Be on top of the play having proper distance and being stationary when you
make the decision (call or no call).
To help the referees in this matter, FIBA has developed an FIBA iRef Pre-Game App that can be easily
used everywhere to help the referee crew to prepare for the game.
You can download the application from Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

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2.7 MAKING A CALL, DECISION MAKING AND COMMUNICATION
Target: To know how to make the call and being able to immediately communicate the decision verbally
and with standard hand signals.
Sometimes we underestimate the value of simple basic techniques in creating the solid foundations of
successful basketball officiating at the top level.
When blowing the pea-less whistle it is important to have enough air (force) in a short period to enter
into whistle. This creates the strong decisive sound. Given the need to communicate verbally the
decision after making the call, it is imperative we retain some air in our lungs.
Therefore following key points are important:
1. Technique how to blow the whistle – strong short blow (“spit”) into the whistle - one time.
2. Release the whistle out of the mouth after making a call.
3. Indicating the relevant signals for the decision.
4. Support your decision verbally “Foul blue 5, offensive foul; Travelling etc…”
5. Less is more – remember less and once you indicate/state something, the power of the
message is stronger (practice the key words and how to articulate them clearly).

2.7.1. MAKING A ‘NO-CALL’

Referees are to use official signals only. Where a referee is making a decision on a play and a no call
situation eventuates, referees are not to demonstrate or use other signals for the ‘no call’. This is
particularly relevant in such situations where your partner sees an illegal action on the same play due
to having a different angle and actually makes a call.

2.7.2. MAKING AN OUT-OF-BOUNDS CALL

When calling out-of-bounds plays referee should always support their decision verbally i.e. saying
“blue ball” at the same time as showing the direction. This will be very useful if you accidentally point
in the wrong direction.

2.7.3. MAKING A FOUL CALL

It is important to communicate your decision to players and other participants clearly and quickly.
In act of shooting situations people are eager to know whether there will be free throws or not. To
avoid confusion in these situations referees should communicate their decision immediately by using
appropriate authorized signal.

Foul in Act of Shooting (FAOS) Foul not in Act of Shooting (FNAOS)

Note: These signals should only be used when there is an act of shooting situation or potential act of shooting
situation.

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Unsportsmanlike foul – 0-1-2 technique
When calling a situation with a potential UF
action, the following protocols should be used:
0. Make the decision to call something
1. Indicate foul signal first (gives time to
process what criteria is used for UF)
2. Upgrade the signal for UF 0. 1. 2.
Referees should avoid showing the UF hand
signal directly when calling a foul.

3 point shot, foul & basket

When calling a defensive foul in the shot; the
following protocol is to be used:
1. Shot is taken – 3 Point Attempt Signal
2. Foul is called – switch to Regular Foul
Signal (use the same hand)
3. The ball goes to into basket – Successful 1. 2. 3.
3 Point Signal

2.8 SIGNALS & REPORTING

Target: To identify the different phases and techniques of having strong and decisive signals as part of
court presence.
Referees should use only the official signals defined in the FIBA Basketball Rules. It is a professional
sign and attitude to use only the official signals. Personal habits and preferences only demonstrate a
lack of understanding and professional attitude.
When communicating decisions with signals it is good to remember that the use of signals creates
a strong perception among the people who are watching the referees. It is one piece in the overall
package of providing a trusted and accepted refereeing image. Often we think that there is no need to
practise the official signals at all, but it is highly necessary.
A checklist for successful use of the signals:
1. Use official and authorized FIBA signals
2. Rhythm
a. Each signal has a start and a stop
b. When finishing the signal, freeze it and count “one-two” in your mind
3. Strong, Sharp, Visible and Decisive signals (practice this in front of the mirror)
4. Use both hands for direction, depending which shoulder is in the front.
5. Treat each team, player and play with the same standard (no histrionics)
6. Remember less is more (no repetition, one clear and strong signal)
7. Verbally support the signal at all times.

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2.8.1. REPORTING
A checklist for successful reporting to the scorers’ table:
1. Walk sharply to a spot where you have visual contact with the table. Minimize distance – think
where is your next position after reporting.
2. Stop, both feet side by side on the floor and breathe (body balance – shoulders level)
3. Rhythm (start - stop -“one - two” / start - stop-“one -two”/ start -stop-“one - two”)
4. Identify: Number, nature of foul and penalty (throw-in or free throws)
5. Nature of the foul must be the same as what really happened in the play
6. Verbally support the reporting to the scorer’s table.

Foul with throw-in Foul with free throws

1. Number – No. 6 1. Number – No. 6

2. Nature of foul – Blocking foul 2. Nature of foul – Illegal contact to hand
3. Penalty – Throw-in direction 3. Penalty – 2 free throws
Double Foul
1. Point to team A´s bench
and report the number
2. Point to team B´s bench
and report the number
3. Show how the game will continue
1. 2.
3a. throw-in direction OR
3b. jump ball situation & throw-in direction

OR

3a. 3b.

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2.9 JUMP BALL / ACTIVE REFEREE (TOSSING THE BALL)
Target: To identify the different phases and correct techniques during the ball toss.
Jump-ball situations are exciting, but unfortunately sometimes the administrating referee is unable to
toss the ball properly. Analysis indicates that 50% of the violations during the jump-ball are caused by
a poor toss by the referee. In other words, they could have been avoided. Tossing the ball is something
that needs to be trained on a regular basis, unlike what is currently the case.
It is crucial to understand that the jumpers are tense and will react easily on any movement caused by
the referee. So therefore it is crucial to avoid any unnecessary movements.
A checklist for a successful ball toss:
a. Players are tense - avoid any extra movements
b. Style of tossing the ball is irrelevant (two hands - low or high, one hand - low or high)
c. It is more important is to have one solid upward movement to toss the ball
d. Level of the ball at the start – the lower the ball is – the longer it has to travel to reach the
“highest point”.
e. Speed & intensiveness of the toss (lower starting point – more intensive and faster)

f. No whistle in the mouth when administrating the toss.

2.10 JUMP BALL / NON-ACTIVE REFEREE(S)

Target: To identify the different tasks and techniques for non-administrating (passive) referees during
the ball toss.
The non-administrating referee(s) have only very limited duties during the jump-ball situations. Even
so, from time to time we still witness obvious violations or administrating error(s) that are not officiated
properly. A possible reason is that the non-active referee(s) is not ready to react to any illegal actions
by the players or administrating errors by their partner. The active mind-set is the key for appropriate
coverage. The non-active referee(s) should remind themselves (self talking) to identify illegal actions
and the proper procedures that follow in case they take place.
A checklist for a successful coverage by non-active referee(s):
a. Call back the poor toss (too low, not straight, incorrect timing)
b. Call the violation if the ball is touched by jumpers on the way up (stealing the tap)
c. Call the violation if the non-jumpers are not staying outside the circle until ball is tapped legally
by the jumper(s).
d. Controlling the game clock (10:00) and the shot clock (24’’) – ensuring they are reset where a
violation is called before the ball is legally tapped.
e. Ensuring that any throw-in as a result of a violation by the jumper is placed in the new front
court, close to the mid court line.
f. Checking that the alternating possession arrow is set properly after one of the teams has
established the first possession of a live ball.

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2.11 COVERING A SHOT (PROTECT THE SHOOTER)
Target: To have full coverage on all act of shooting situations.
Referees should have full coverage on obvious situations in their primary. A shot is an obvious play
– always! The correct way to referee a shooting situation is to use a 1-2-3 technique for shooting
situations. When used properly this technique provides the details for possible foul or fake call. The
action need to have contact to be illegal

1-2-3 technique on shooting situations

a. Referee defense all the time.
b. Check the play in following order: 1. hands 2. body 3. feet (landing).
c. Stay with the play until shooter has returned to the floor.
d. Only then turn your attention to ball & rebounds.

1.

2.

3.
Diagram 3:
The 1-2-3 technique covering act of shooting
situations.

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2.12 THROW-IN ADMINISTRATION (GENERAL & FRONTCOURT ENDLINE)
Target: To identify the standard phases and correct administration procedure for all throw-in situations.
The throw-in administration should be an automatic (muscle memory) procedure. If done every time
and with the proper technique, the referee will always be ready physically and mentally to cover the
various types of play situations than can occur with a throw-in action.
Check list for the general throw-in procedure as an administrating referee:
1. Always designate the throw-in spot
2. Use preventative officiating eg. “on the spot”, “stay” or “don’t move”
3. Check the clocks
4. Take and maintain distance from the play
5. Put the whistle in your mouth while holding ball
6. In L2M show the Illegal Boundary Line Crossing signal (no. 54)
7. Bounce the ball to the player
8. Start the visual count
9. Observe the throw-in and action surrounding.
10. Use the start clock signal.

Diagram 4:
The different phases of the
correct throw-in procedure for the
administrating referee.

Diagram 5:
The different phases of the correct
throw-in procedure in the last 2
minutes of the 4th quarter or the
overtime.

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2.12.1. WARNING WHISTLE
In order to alert players before re-starting the game after a longer stoppage the active referee will
blow the whistle (warning whistle) before placing the ball at the player’s disposal for the throw-in. This
also applies to the opening toss.
The warning whistle will be given before:
• the Crew Chief enters the centre circle to administer the opening toss
• a throw-in taken at the start of each quarter
• a throw-in taken on the end line in the front court
• a throw-in taken after a time-out

The different phases of the

correct throw-in procedure with
the Warning whistle.

The different phases of the

correct throw-in procedure with
the Warning whistle in the last
2 minutes of the 4th quarter or
the overtime.

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2.13 FAKE A FOUL
Target: To know what is a fake and how to manage the situation when it occurs.
Faking is behaviour that does not fit within the spirit of sportsmanship and fair play and for this reason,
it is the referees who need to identify the action early and to clean it up early.
Faking is where a player pretends he has been fouled or makes theatrical exaggerated movements to
create an opinion of being fouled and therefore gaining an unfair advantage. Note: A flop is a special
type of the defender’s action (charge/block) but it is still a fake. A fake without any contact with an
opponent is considered to be excessive fake.
It is important for referees to know the game of basketball and the technical movements and tactics
of the players to assist them in officiating faking, especially where players maximise the impact of
marginal contact.
When a player is faking during the play the referees shall give a warning to the player and to the head
coach. This serves as a warning for that team. Each team is entitled to one warning. Any repetition of
faking by the same team is a technical foul.
An excessive fake results in a direct technical foul (no warning required).

1. Protocol for the standard fake warning during the play:

a. A fake action by the player during the play (no stoppage)
b. Show the “raise-the-lower arm” signal to indicate the “fake action”
c. Verbal support – for example “white 8 fake”

2. Protocol for the warning

(next stop clock period-game interruption):
a. Communicate the warning to the affected player and the
coach plus the co-referee(s)
b. Show the “Raise-the-lower arm” signal and demonstrate
the “Technical Foul” signal supported verbally

3. On repetitive fake action or on excessive fake

resulting in a technical foul, whistle with:
a. Stop the clock signal
b. “Raise-the-lower-arm” signal
c. Followed by the “Technical Foul” signal

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Some signs of faking:
• Faker is looking for contact first (he needs a contact to make the fake)
• Head goes back (head fake) when contact does not occur on the head
• Making theatrical, exaggerated movements
• Jumping off spot and landing spot are close to each other
• Feet go up in the air when falling and hands are prepared for the fall
Not all the movements are fakes:
• If a dribbler extends his arm to create space – it is still an offensive foul in principle.
• If a player steps on another player’s foot and loses his balance – this is not a fake in principle.

It is important to see the entire play, not only the reaction of the player. Illegal contact is still to be
called as a foul, marginal contacts are still part of the game and legal. If there is a foul on the play, there
cannot be a fake on the same play (no foul and warning on the same play). Foul = No warning. No foul
= Warning.

2.14 CONTROL OF THE GAME AND SHOT CLOCK

Target:
• Identify the correct techniques of how to control the game & shot clock.
• Identify the most common play situation where a possible error might occur.
• Identify the correct procedure and methods of how to re-set the game or shot clock.

The control of the game & shot clock by referees has become a standard routine nowadays. Five years
ago it was practically inexistent or at the least very rare. It has been previously questioned as to how a
referee is able to control the clocks almost all the time and still focus fully on play situations. The secret
is in the correct technique and appropriate timing. This combined with thousands of repetitive actions
(practise) will ensure it becomes automatic skill (developed and maintained in your muscle memory).
The basic element being that game clock will be controlled every time there is new team control.

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Note: These techniques work when timing displays are visible to the referees.
Phase 1 Learn to control game clock
Game clock - Starting the game clock when:
when it should be A. During a jump ball, the ball is legally tapped by a jumper.
started B. After an unsuccessful last or only free throw and the ball continues to be
live, the ball touches or is touched by a player on the playing court.
C. During a throw-in, the ball touches or is legally touched by a player on the
playing court.
Game clock Stopping the game clock when:
-when it should A. Time expires at the end of playing time for a quarter, if not stopped
be stopped automatically by the game clock itself.
B. A referee blows his whistle while the ball is live.
C. A field goal is scored against a team which has requested a time-out.
D. A field goal is scored when the game clock shows 2:00 minutes or less in the
fourth quarter and in each overtime.
E. The shot clock signal sounds while a team is in control of the ball.
Phase 2 Learn to control game clock whenever there is a new team possession
Team establishes Pick up the game clock:
a new team
A. Pick up the last two digits of the game clock.
control B. Example: 6:26 -> pick up the 26.
possession (new C. Whenever you have to correct the shot clock, you know
shot clock period) the game clock time and when the shot clock period
started.
D. Example: 6:26 - new team possession -> ball goes out
of bounds and shot clock is re-set by mistake. When the
game clock shows 6:10 the Referee can determine the
shot clock with some basic mathematics: 26 – 10 = 16
(therefore 16 seconds has elapsed). The new correct shot
clock time is 8 seconds.
Most common A. Jump ball - legally tap (start game clock) and first possession (shot clock)
situations when B. Out of bound play (stop game clock)
errors occur with C. Throw-in (start game clock)
timing. D. Rebound play - new possession (shot clock)
E. Saving ball from out of bounds play (if new control or not – shot clock)
F. “Loose ball” but not a change of team control (re-set clock by mistake)

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Phase 3 Learn to control game and shot clock in the end of quarter
New team When you have 24.0 / 14.0*) seconds or less on the game and there is a new
control and 24.0 team control
/ 14.0 seconds or
1. One of the referees indicates this by showing one finger.
less on the game
2. The other referee(s) will copy the signal (mirroring).
clock.
3. This means: it is possible that the quarter will end during
this team’s control.
4. All referees should get ready to pay close attention to the
game clock in order to determine in a last moment shot
situation whether the shot has been taken in time – A
valid basket or not (cancelled basket).
* in case of offensive rebound or throw-in from front court
according to OBR article 29.2.1

End of the quarter procedure:

When signal sounds / LED lights appear for the end of the quarter.
• Referee blows the whistle immediately and raises his hand.

• If the basket is valid (ball is released before the signal

sounds / LED lights appear), the referee keeps the hand
up and when ball goes into the basket shows the basket
count signal (2/3 points).

• If the basket is to be cancelled (ball is still

in the hand of the shooter when the signal
sounds / LED lights appear), the referee
indicates immediately the “cancel basket”
signal.

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Shot clock violation procedure:
When the shot clock violation occurs:
1. Trail and/or Centre referee blows the whistle immediately
and raises his hand to stop the game clock, and
2. Then the calling referee shows the official signal for shot
clock violation.

When a shot for a field goal is attempted near the end of the 24-second period and the shot clock
signal sounds while the ball is in the air:

A) If the ball misses the ring, a violation has occurred and referees should blow their
whistle. However, if the opponents gain immediate and clear control of the ball (B), the
signal shall be disregarded and the game shall continue.

D) If the ball touches the ring but does

C) If the ball enters the basket, no not enter the basket, no violation has
violation has occurred, the signal shall be occurred, the signal shall be disregarded
disregarded and the goal shall count. and the game shall continue.

Note: When the backboard is equipped with yellow lighting along its perimeter at the top, the lighting takes
precedence over the shot clock signal sound.

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SUPPORTING
MATERIAL
CHAPTER 3
3. SUPPORTING MATERIAL
3.1 OFFICIAL REFEREES’ SIGNALS

Game clock signals

STOP THE CLOCK
STOP THE CLOCK FOR FOUL START THE CLOCK

Open palm One clenched fist Chop with hand

Scoring
1 POINT 2 POINTS 3 POINTS

1 finger, 2 fingers, 3 fingers extended

'flag' from wrist 'flag' from wrist One arm: Attempt
Both arms: Successful

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Substitution and Time-out
CHARGED MEDIA
SUBSTITUTION BECKONING-IN TIME-OUT TIME-OUT

Cross forearms Open palm, wave Form T, show index Open arms with
towards the body finger clenched fists
Informative
CANCEL SCORE, CANCEL PLAY VISIBLE COUNT

Scissor-like action with arms, once across Counting while moving the palm
chest

DIRECTION OF
PLAY AND/OR HELD BALL/JUMP
COMMUNICATION SHOT CLOCK RESET OUT-OF-BOUNDS BALL SITUATION

Thumb up Rotate hand, Point in direction of Thumbs up, then

extend index finger play, arm parallel to point in direction
sidelines of play using
the alternating
possession arrow

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Violations
ILLEGAL DRIBBLE:
TRAVELLING DOUBLE DRIBBLING ILLEGAL DRIBBLE: CARRYING THE BALL

Rotate fists Patting motion with Half rotation with

palm palm

3 SECONDS 5 SECONDS 8 SECONDS

Arm extended, show 3 fingers Show 5 fingers Show 8 fingers

DELIBERATE
KICK OR BLOCK
24 SECONDS BALL RETURNED TO BACKCOURT OF THE BALL

Fingers touch Wave arm front of body Point to the foot

shoulder

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Number of Players
No. 00 and 0

Both hands show Right hand shows

number 0 number 0

No. 1 - 5 No. 6 - 10 No. 11 - 15

Right hand shows Right hand shows Right hand shows

number 1 to 5 number 5, left hand clenched fist,
shows number 1 left hand shows
to 5 number 1 to 5

No. 16 No. 24

First reverse hand shows number 1 for the First reverse hand shows number 2 for the
decade digit - then open hands show decade digit - then open hand shows
number 6 for the units digit number 4 for the units digit

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 No. 40 No. 62

First reverse hand shows number 4 for the First reverse hands show number 6 for the
decade digit - then open hand shows decade digit - then open hand shows
number 0 for the units digit number 2 for the units digit

No. 78 No. 99

First reverse hands show number 7 for the First reverse hands show number 9 for the
decade digit - then open hands show decade digit - then open hands show
number 8 for the units digit number 9 for the units digit

Type of Fouls
BLOCKING PUSHING OR
(DEFENSE), CHARGING
ILLEGAL SCREEN WITHOUT THE
HOLDING (OFFENSE) BALL HANDCHECKING

Grasp wrist Both hands on hips Imitate push Grab palm and
downward forward motion

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ILLEGAL USE OF CHARGING WITH ILLEGAL CONTACT
HANDS THE BALL TO THE HAND HOOKING

Strike wrist Clenched fist strike Strike the palm Move lower arm
open palm towards the other backwards
forearm

EXCESSIVE FOUL BY TEAM IN

SWINGING OF CONTROL OF THE
ELBOW HIT TO THE HEAD BALL

Swing elbow Imitate the contact Point clenched fist

backwards to the head towards basket of
offending team

FOUL ON THE ACT OF SHOOTING FOUL NOT ON THE ACT OF SHOOTING

One arm with clenched fist, followed by One arm with clenched fist, followed by
indication of the number of free throws pointing to the floor

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Special Fouls
UNSPORTS- DISQUALIFYING
DOUBLE FOUL TECHNICAL FOUL MANLIKE FOUL FOUL

Wave clenched fists Form T, showing Grasp wrist upward Clenched fists on
on both hands palms both hands

ILLEGAL
BOUNDARY LINE
CROSSING ON A
FAKE A FOUL THROW-IN IRS REVIEW

Raise the lower arm Wave arm parallel Rotate hand with
twice to boundary line (in horizontal extended
last 2 minutes of index finger
the fourth quarter
and overtime)

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Foul Penalty Administration – Reporting to Table
AFTER FOUL AFTER FOUL BY
WITHOUT FREE TEAM IN CONTROL
THROW(S) OF THE BALL

Point in direction of Clenched fist in

play, arm parallel to direction of play,
sidelines arm parallel to
sidelines

1 FREE THROW 2 FREE THROWS 3 FREE THROWS

Hold up 1 finger Hold up 2 fingers Hold up 3 fingers

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 Administrating Free Throws – Active Referee (Lead)
1 FREE THROW 2 FREE THROWS 3 FREE THROWS

1 finger horizontal 2 fingers horizontal 3 fingers horizontal

Administrating Free Throws – Passive Referee (Trail in 2PO & Centre in 3PO)
1 FREE THROW 2 FREE THROWS 3 FREE THROWS

Index finger Fingers together on 3 fingers extended

both hands on both hands

3.2 BASIC BASKETBALL OFFICIATING TERMINOLOGY

To help all the stakeholders to speak the same
basketball officiating language, FIBA Referee
Operations has published BASIC BASKETBALL
OFFICIATING TERMINOLOGY manual. It contains a
glossary of terms and abbreviations used in modern
basketball officiating.

It can be read and downloaded from

FIBA iRef Library App or directly from this link.

EXTERNAL MATERIAL

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