The Official Basketball Reference Codex & FIBA / NBA Statutory Repository
Basketball is codified internationally by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) and domestically in North America under the National Basketball Association (NBA) Official Rulebook. This reference codex provides comprehensive technical specifications for court dimensions (28m × 15m FIBA / 94ft × 50ft NBA), rim height (10.0ft / 3.05m), the 24-second shot clock and 14-second offensive rebound reset, the 8-second backcourt transition, the 3-second key violation, foul classifications (Personal, Technical, Unsportsmanlike/Flagrant), and cylinder rules.
The 8 Official Knowledge Pillars
Rules & Regulations
FIBA and NBA rules explained simply: shot clock, backcourt violations, and goaltending.
History & Evolution
From peach baskets in 1891 to the global game basketball is today.
Tactical Positions
The 5 positions on court and what each player is responsible for.
Terminology & A-Z
Basketball terms explained: Alley-Oop, Pick and Roll, Fast Break, and more.
Dimensions & Specs
Official court size for FIBA and NBA, plus the standard rim height.
Equipment Standards
The rules behind the official ball, rims, and backboards.
Official Records
The all-time top scorers, triple-double leaders, and championship records.
Documented Facts
Unforgettable basketball moments, from the 100-point game to record-breaking tournaments.
Key Statutory Laws & Officiating Rules
| Statute | Official Statute Title | Statutory Core Principle & Officiating Focus | Restart / Enforcement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rule 1–3 | Game Structure, Court & Equipment | 4 quarters of 10 minutes (FIBA) or 12 minutes (NBA). Court size 28m × 15m. Rim exactly 3.05m (10ft) high on a 1.80m × 1.05m transparent backboard with a 0.45m (18in) diameter rim. | Jump ball at center |
| Rule 4–5 | Teams, Players & Timing Regulations | 5 active players per side; 24-second shot clock; 14-second reset on offensive rebounds or offensive fouls; 8 seconds to advance ball across midcourt; 5 seconds to inbound or pass when closely guarded; 3 seconds in the offensive key. | Inbound throw-in |
| Rule 6 | Violations & Possession Turnover | Traveling (excessive steps without dribble), double dribble, carrying/palming, backcourt violation (over-and-back), out of bounds, goaltending (touching ball on downward flight), and basket interference. | Opponent sideline inbound |
| Rule 7 | Contact Fouls & Penalties | Personal fouls awarded for illegal physical contact. 5th personal foul (FIBA) or 6th (NBA) disqualifies player. Team penalty bonus triggered on 5th team foul per quarter, awarding 2 free throws for subsequent fouls. | Free throws / Inbound |
| Rule 8 | Special Fouls & Unsportsmanlike Conduct | Technical fouls awarded for non-contact behavioral misconduct or administrative breaches (1 free throw + possession in FIBA); Unsportsmanlike / Flagrant 1 & 2 fouls for excessive, violent, or non-basketball plays. | Free throws + retention |
Playing Surface & Equipment Dimensions
Basketball (FIBA & NBA Codex) Officiating Technology & Review Protocols
Instant Replay Review System (IRS)
Referees review buzzer-beaters, out-of-bounds deflections, 2-point vs 3-point foot placements, correct timing calibration, and potential Flagrant/Unsportsmanlike foul upgrades.
Optical Player Tracking & Shot Calibration
Synchronized multi-camera computer vision tracking player velocity, shot arc trajectories, separation distance, and paint touch frequencies.