A new era in basketball: FIBA announces rule changes
FIBA has introduced significant rule updates that directly affect the flow and discipline of the game of basketball. The changes, which will take effect on October 1, bring modifications in many areas, from foul definitions to shooting motion criteria.
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The Central Board of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) has decided to update several fundamental rules in basketball. These new rules, prepared in line with recommendations from the FIBA Rules Advisory Group—which includes coaches, players, referees, and experts—and evaluated by the Technical Commission, will be implemented on October 1.
According to the new regulations, technical fouls will now be divided into two separate categories. Depending on the severity of the technical foul, the penalty can be determined in a way that may or may not require the player's disqualification. This aims to create a more balanced and fair disciplinary system.
The definition of a shooting motion has been completely overhauled, with careful attention paid to preserving the competitive nature of the game. From now on, for a player to be considered in a shooting motion, they must initiate the intent to shoot at the basket while in possession of the ball by lifting their shoulders and arms upward. This change is intended to prevent unfair attempts to draw fouls, particularly those aimed at gaining an advantage through contact.
NEW POWERS FOR THE INSTANT REPLAY SYSTEM
Another significant innovation introduced by FIBA concerns the Instant Replay System (IRS), known as video review. Henceforth, at any moment during a match, referees will be able to use the IRS to review whether a play involved goaltending or basket interference following a foul.
Furthermore, in the final two minutes of the fourth quarter and throughout all overtime periods, the IRS can also be used to determine whether the ball has been considered in play during inbound situations when fouls are committed by the defensive team. This is intended to ensure that referee decisions are more accurate and made more quickly.
FAREWELL TO THE CONCEPT OF UNSPORTSMANLIKE FOUL
Under the new rules, the term "unsportsmanlike foul" has been removed. Instead, two new definitions will be used: "blocking foul" and "severe foul." With this change, tactical fouls can be more clearly distinguished from truly dangerous contact. FIBA stated that it implemented this change to ensure that penalties are proportional and to prevent players from automatically facing severe disciplinary sanctions.
FLEXIBILITY IN MARKETING AND COURT LAYOUT
Another innovation is reflected in the athletes' attire and court layout. It will no longer be mandatory for basketball players' socks to be visible. Additionally, more freedom will be granted regarding the color and markings of court lines to better align with modern marketing standards.
FIBA announced that it will hold comprehensive online seminars for national federations in August and will publish the details of the new rules in September. With these developments, basketball is on the threshold of a new era in terms of both game discipline and performance.