Basket Interference is a violation in basketball that occurs when a player illegally touches the ball or the basket while the ball is on or above the rim.
This violation results in the offensive team being awarded points automatically if committed by the defense, or the defensive team gaining possession if committed by the offense.
There are several ways a player can commit basket interference:
- Touching the ball or any part of the basket (including the net) while the ball is on or directly above the rim.
- Touching the ball while it is completely within the imaginary cylinder extending upward from the rim.
- Reaching up through the bottom of the basket to touch the ball, whether it is inside or outside the cylinder.
- Pulling down on the rim so that it makes contact with the ball before returning to its original position.
One exception to these rules is during a dunk attempt.
The offensive player is allowed to briefly touch the ball within the cylinder or hang on the rim momentarily without being called for interference.
If the defensive team commits basket interference, the offensive team is awarded the points as if the shot had been successful (2 or 3 points depending on the shot attempt). If the offensive team commits the violation, no points are awarded and the defensive team gains possession of the ball.
Basket interference and goaltending (touching the ball on its downward flight toward the basket) are the only violations in basketball that result in automatic points being awarded.
The basket interference rule was introduced to prevent players from unfairly disrupting shot attempts.
In the early days of basketball, tall players like George Mikan and Bob Kurland would often swat away shots near the rim. The NCAA and National Basketball Association implemented the interference and goaltending rules to counteract this strategy and maintain a fair balance.
Some notable moments involving basket interference:
- In the 1957 NBA Finals, the Boston Celtics' Bill Russell became known as the "Funneler" for using his hands to guide his teammates' shots into the basket. This led to the addition of offensive basket interference to the rulebook the following season.
- During the 1986 NBA Playoffs, the Atlanta Hawks' Dominique Wilkins had a potential game-tying putback waved off in the final seconds due to basket interference. The call was controversial as replays showed the ball may have already been off the rim.
- In the 2002 Western Conference Finals, the Los Angeles Lakers' Samaki Walker had a crucial buzzer-beater disallowed due to basket interference. The call helped the Sacramento Kings force overtime and eventually win the game.
Understanding and avoiding basket interference is crucial for players at all levels of basketball.
It ensures fair play and prevents teams from gaining an unfair advantage near the basket. Referees must have a keen eye to spot interference violations and make the correct call in fast-paced game situations.