In basketball, a defensive three-second violation is called when a defensive player remains in the paint for more than three consecutive seconds while not actively guarding an offensive player. The paint is the area of the court bounded by the free throw lane and the endlines.
The defensive three-second rule is designed to prevent the defense from camping out in the paint and making it difficult for the offense to operate. It also encourages the defense to be more active and aggressive.
When is a Defensive Three-Second Violation Called?
A defensive three-second violation is called when a defensive player meets all of the following criteria:
- The defensive player is in the paint.
- The defensive player is not actively guarding an offensive player.
- The defensive player has been in the paint for three or more consecutive seconds.
The count of three seconds starts when the offensive team gains control of the ball in the frontcourt. If the defensive player leaves the paint for even a moment, the count resets.
What Happens When a Defensive Three-Second Violation Is Called?
When a defensive three-second violation is called, the ball is awarded to the offensive team at the top of the key. The offensive team can then inbound the ball and start a new possession.
What is Actively Guarding an Offensive Player?
A defensive player is considered to be actively guarding an offensive player if they are within arm’s length of the offensive player and are in a position to contest a shot or pass.
A defensive player is not considered to be actively guarding an offensive player if they are simply standing in the paint and watching the play.
Common Defensive Three-Second Violations
There are a few common mistakes that defensive players make that can lead to defensive three-second violations.
- Standing in the paint without guarding an offensive player. This is the most common type of defensive three-second violation. Defensive players should always be moving and be in a position to contest a shot or pass.
- Leaving the paint and then returning within three seconds. If a defensive player leaves the paint, they must stay out of the paint for at least three seconds before they can return.
- Climbing over the free throw line. The free throw line is the boundary of the paint. If a defensive player climbs over the free throw line, they are considered to be in the paint.
How to Avoid Defensive Three-Second Violations
Defensive players can avoid defensive three-second violations by following these tips:
- Always be moving. Defensive players should never stand still in the paint. They should always be moving and be in a position to contest a shot or pass.
- Be aware of the count. Defensive players should be aware of how long they have been in the paint. If they are close to three seconds, they should start moving out of the paint.
- Don’t climb over the free throw line. The free throw line is the boundary of the paint. Defensive players should never climb over the free throw line.
The defensive three-second rule is an important rule in basketball. It helps to keep the game flowing and prevents the defense from camping out in the paint.
