How to Call a Shot Clock Violation in Basketball
A basketball referee in a league which utilizes a shot clock has the unenviable task of not only keeping track of the players on the court, but also the time left on the shot clock. This can lead to some difficult judgement calls by a referee. However, there are a few things that can make calling a shot clock violation easier.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Learn the hand signal that is used to call a shot clock violation. To call a shot clock violation, pat the top of your head three times with an open palm. That signifies that a shot clock violation has occurred, and the opposing team gets the ball out of bounds.
-
2
Know the rules regarding the shot clock in the league that you are refereeing. Shot clock violation rules can differ from league to league. You need to know the length of the shot clock and for what reasons the shot clock should be reset.
-
-
3
Keep alert on the court at all times. Most basketball leagues sound a buzzer when the shot clock reaches zero. You may also be able to view the shot clock yourself. By using both senses, you should more easily judge whether a shot clock violation has occurred.
-
4
Consult with your fellow referees if you have an issue with a shot clock violation call. A referee's job is to get the call right, even if that requires help from another referee. If you think another referee has made a shot clock violation call in error, blow the whistle, and talk over the play with the referee to decide what the correct call should be.
-
1
