Last Updated on: 6th July 2023, 06:42 pm
In basketball, the “cylinder rule” is a term used to describe the imaginary cylinder above and around a player that they are entitled to occupy without interference from an opposing player. The cylinder is typically defined as the space above the player’s head and extending down to the floor, with a radius of approximately two feet.
The cylinder rule is important in determining whether a player has committed a foul by making contact with an opposing player. If a defender reaches into the cylinder and makes contact with the offensive player, it is considered a foul. Similarly, if an offensive player initiates contact with a defender by entering their cylinder, it can also be considered a foul.
However, the cylinder rule is not absolute and there are exceptions. For example, a defender is allowed to jump vertically and occupy the same space as an offensive player, as long as they do not make contact. This is known as the “verticality” rule.
In addition, the cylinder rule does not apply to loose balls or rebounds, where players are allowed to make contact in an effort to gain possession of the ball.
Overall, the cylinder rule is an important concept in basketball that helps to ensure fair play and prevent dangerous collisions between players.
