In basketball, understanding the rules about movement with the ball is crucial. One of the most debated and sometimes misunderstood rules is traveling. It dictates how a player can legally move their feet while in possession of the ball. This article breaks down the concept of “travel” in basketball, focusing on the crucial element known as the “gather.”
The official NBA rulebook, specifically Rule 10, Section XIII, defines traveling in detail. It outlines various scenarios, starting from receiving the ball while stationary to progressing with the ball. The rule is designed to prevent players from gaining an unfair advantage by walking or running without dribbling.
One key aspect to understanding travel is the “gather.” The gather is defined as when a player gains control of the ball while moving. Once a player gathers the ball while progressing, they are allowed two steps to come to a stop, pass, or shoot.
Let’s break down the steps allowed after the gather:
- First Step: This occurs when a foot, or both feet, touch the ground after gaining control of the ball.
- Second Step: After the first step, the second step happens when the other foot touches the ground, or both feet land simultaneously.
It’s important to note the nuances within the traveling rule:
- Pivot Foot: If a player receives the ball while standing still, they can pivot on either foot. If they come to a stop on the first step with both feet on the floor, they can also pivot on either foot. However, if they land on one foot first when stopping, only that foot can be the pivot foot.
- Starting a Dribble: To start dribbling after stopping or receiving the ball stationary, the ball must leave the player’s hand before the pivot foot is lifted.
- Jumping: If a player jumps with both feet, they must release the ball before either foot returns to the floor.
To illustrate a legal gather and move, consider this scenario:
In the play above, the offensive player gathers the ball while their right foot is on the ground. This is the gather step. From this point, they are legally allowed two more steps in any direction to shoot or pass, according to Rule 4 Section III – The Gather and Rule 10 Section XIII – Traveling (b) of the NBA rulebook. This example highlights how players can move dynamically while staying within the bounds of the traveling rule.
Another example of a legal gather is demonstrated here:
In this instance, Giannis Antetokounmpo gathers the ball with his left foot on the ground. Similar to the previous example, this gather allows him two subsequent steps to make a play – in this case, a shot. Both examples showcase skilled players utilizing the gather to their advantage while adhering to the traveling rule.
Understanding the gather and the two-step rule is essential for players, coaches, and even fans to fully appreciate the intricacies of basketball. It allows for dynamic movement and exciting plays while maintaining fair gameplay. For a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of the traveling rule, referring directly to the official NBA rulebook is always recommended.
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