What Is an Offensive Foul in Basketball?
Although most fouls in basketball are called on defensive players, offensive players can be whistled for penalties as well. According to NBA.com, an offensive foul occurs "when the player with the ball charges into a defender who is in a stationary, defensive position." However, that describes only one type of offensive foul. Several additional types can occur.
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Charging
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If the player who is currently in possession of the ball collides with a defensive player who is not moving, the referee calls a charging foul and possession of the ball reverts to the other team.
Travelling
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If the player with the ball takes too many steps without actively dribbling the basketball, he is whistled for travelling and his team loses possession of the ball.
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Double-dribble
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A violation similar to travelling, called double-dribbling, occurs when the player dribbles the ball, stops and places both hands on the ball, then proceeds to dribble again.
Clock Violations
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The offensive team has eight seconds to get the ball past the half-court line once they gain possession, and 24 seconds to attempt a shot. Failure to meet either one of these guidelines results in a turnover.
Three Second Violation
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An offensive player can not remain in the "key" or painted area under the basket for more than three seconds at a time. A violation results in a change of possession.
Goaltending
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While goaltending is often considered a defensive foul, it can be committed by an offensive player as well. If an offensive player illegally interferes with a shot on the rim or on a downward path to the hoop, the basket is not counted, even if the ball goes through the net.
Fouling Out
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If a player commits either five or six total personal fouls, depending upon the league, that player fouls out of the game, meaning that she cannot to return to play during the current contest. The only offensive foul that counts in this total is charging.
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