Basketball Possession Arrow

July 8, 2023

Last Updated on: 3rd August 2023, 10:44 pm

Table of Contents show

How Does The Possession Arrow Work In Basketball?

The possession arrow is a rule in basketball that helps determine which team gets possession of the ball after a jump ball or a held ball situation.

When a jump ball or a held ball occurs, the referee will toss the ball up between two players from opposing teams. The team that gains control of the ball is awarded the game’s first possession. After that, the possession arrow comes into play.

The possession arrow is a visual indicator that shows which team will get the next possession of the ball in a jump ball or held ball situation. The arrow is usually displayed on the scoreboard or a separate possession arrow board at the scorer’s table.

Basketball Possession Arrow Rules

Here are some of the key rules regarding the possession arrow:

  1. The possession arrow determines which team gets the next possession of the ball after a jump ball or a held ball situation.
  2. The team that did not get the game’s first possession is awarded the next possession if the possession arrow is pointing in their direction. If the arrow points in the other team’s direction, the possession will go to that team instead.
  3. The possession arrow is reset after each jump ball or held ball situation and alternates between the two teams.
  4. If a player from one team commits a held ball violation while in possession of the ball, the possession arrow will be switched to the other team.
  5. If a player from one team commits a jump ball violation, such as grabbing the ball and not releasing it, the possession arrow will be switched to the other team.
  6. If a jump ball or held ball situation occurs at the start of a period, the team that did not get the first possession of the game will be awarded the first possession of the period, regardless of the possession arrow.
  7. If a jump ball or held ball occurs during the last two minutes of the game or overtime, the possession arrow is ignored, and the ball is instead awarded to the team that did not possess the ball last. This is known as the alternating possession rule.

Understanding the possession arrow rules is important for players, coaches, and fans alike, as it can significantly impact the outcome of a game.