Wheelchair basketball is a fast-paced and exciting sport that follows many of the same rules as traditional basketball. However, there are some key differences to ensure that players in wheelchairs can compete fairly and effectively. Here are the basic rules of wheelchair basketball:
1. Court and Equipment
- The court size and hoop height are the same as traditional basketball.
- Players use specially designed sports wheelchairs that are built for speed, agility, and maneuverability.
- Each team consists of five players on the court at a time.
- Players are categorized based on their level of disability, with a point system used to ensure fairness in team composition.
2. Scoring
- Scoring in wheelchair basketball is the same as traditional basketball, with two-point field goals and three-point shots from beyond the arc.
- Free throws are taken from a specified spot on the court, with players having the option to use a one-handed shot or a two-handed shot.
3. Dribbling and Passing
- Players must dribble the ball while pushing their wheelchair, just like in traditional basketball.
- Passing is a crucial skill in wheelchair basketball, with players using chest passes, bounce passes, and overhead passes to move the ball up the court.
4. Fouls and Violations
- Players can commit fouls such as personal fouls, technical fouls, and flagrant fouls, with penalties ranging from free throws to player ejections.
- Traveling, double dribbling, and carrying the ball are all violations that result in turnovers.
- Players must remain seated in their wheelchairs at all times, with standing resulting in a turnover.
5. Substitutions and Timeouts
- Teams can make substitutions during stoppages in play, with players entering and exiting the game at the scorer’s table.
- Each team is allowed a certain number of timeouts per game to strategize and rest players.
6. Overtime
- If the score is tied at the end of regulation, overtime periods are played to determine a winner.
- Overtime periods are typically shorter than regular game quarters to speed up the resolution.
7. Sportsmanship
- Wheelchair basketball, like all sports, emphasizes good sportsmanship and fair play.
- Players are expected to respect officials, opponents, and teammates throughout the game.
- Unsportsmanlike conduct can result in penalties and ejections from the game.