International Basketball 101: Olympic vs. NBA rules

The United States Men’s National Team overcame a cold start, defeating Canada 86-72 in the opener of the USAB Showcase last week in Las Vegas. Many of the early mishaps could be attributed to the process of building team chemistry and adjusting to the differences of the international game.

Olympic basketball operates under rules and regulations set by FIBA, the governing body for international basketball. A breakdown of the differences between the NBA and Olympic (FIBA) rules can be seen below:

Court Size:

The size of the court is smaller in the international game (91’ 10” x 49’2.5) than the NBA (94×50).

Playing Time:

Four 10-minute quarters will be played during Olympic play versus 12 minutes in the NBA.

Three Point Line:

The three point line is shorter for FIBA matches (6.75m (6.60 on baseline)) than the NBA 7.24m (6.70m on baseline).

Timeouts:

Teams are given seven timeouts in NBA action. During Olympic basketball contests, teams will have two timeouts in the first half and three in the second. Countries can only use two timeouts in the last two minutes of the 4th quarter.

Fouls:

Five fouls and you’re disqualified in Olympic play, differing from the six fouls in the NBA.

Technical Fouls: 

• FIBA – One free throw and possession of the ball at center
• NBA – One free throw per technical foul; play resumes at the point of interruption; foul is charged to the individual in question (and automatic fine assessed)
• FIBA: Two free throws awarded for each (non-shooting) foul after the fourth quarter (includes player technical fouls). This doesn’t include offensive fouls or fouls by the team in possession.
• NBA: Two free throws awarded for each foul after the fourth team foul or last two minutes of each quarter, whichever comes first. This doesn’t include offensive fouls and technical fouls.

Defense:

In the NBA, defensive players aren’t able to stay in a restricted area longer than three seconds if a player is not actively guarding an opponent. This is not the case in FIBA games.

Basket Interference:

Once the ball strikes the rim, any player can play the ball (i.e. swat it away or tap it in), which is not permitted in the NBA.

Traveling Violation:

After a player catches the ball, they can take a step before dribbling in the NBA. According to FIBA rules, unless the player is pivoting in place, they must put the ball on the floor before taking a step. Players are able to take steps and dribble simultaneously.