Carrying
What is Carrying in Basketball?
Carrying, also known as “palming the ball” or “turning the ball over,” is a violation in the game of basketball that occurs when a player handling the ball allows their hand to scoop underneath the ball or places it on the lower half of the ball while dribbling. This action causes the ball to come to a momentary rest, and if the player continues their dribble or moves after this infraction, it results in a turnover.
Similar to other violations such as double dribble or traveling, carrying results in a dead-ball turnover, meaning the opposing team gains possession of the ball. The location from which the ball is thrown back into play depends on the level of competition. In high school and collegiate games, the ball is inbounded from the sideline or baseline closest to where the violation occurred. On the other hand, in the NBA, the ball is inbounded between the free throw line and baseline to provide the defense with a greater advantage.
Understanding the concept of carrying in basketball is crucial for all players, as it helps them to avoid committing this violation and prevent unnecessary turnovers. Continuous dribbling and following proper techniques are key to staying within the rules of the game and ensuring smooth gameplay.
Definition of Carrying in Basketball
Carrying, also known as palming or turning the ball over, is a violation specific to the sport of basketball. This violation takes place when a player in possession of the ball allows their hand to scoop underneath the ball or places it on the lower half while dribbling. As a result, the ball comes to a momentary rest, ceasing the dribble motion. If the ball handler then continues dribbling or moves, a carrying violation is called by the officials.
The carrying penalty is comparable to other violations in basketball, such as double dribble or traveling. Once the carrying violation is called, it results in a dead-ball turnover. The rules for resuming play after a carrying violation slightly differ depending on the level of play:
- In high school and college basketball, the ball is thrown in from the sideline or baseline closest to where the violation occurred.
- In the NBA, the ball is inbounded between the free throw line and baseline to give the defense more of an advantage.
It is essential for basketball players to understand and abide by the rule of carrying to avoid referees’ calls and maintain a smooth flow of the game. To prevent carrying violations, players should focus on continuous dribbling and proper hand positioning during the execution of ball-handling moves.
Rules and Violations
Establishing Possession
In basketball, establishing possession refers to when a player gains control of the basketball. This can happen in various ways, such as during a rebound, after intercepting a pass, or after picking up a loose ball. Possession is essential for understanding the rules of carrying, as it determines the starting point of a player’s dribble.
Dribbling Regulations
When a player is dribbling, they must adhere to certain regulations to avoid committing carrying violations. These regulations include:
- The player must bounce the ball off the floor using only one hand.
- The ball must not come to a rest in the player’s hand.
- The player’s hand must not go below the plane of 90 degrees relative to the ball.
- The upward and downward motion of the ball must not be significantly altered.
These regulations ensure that players maintain proper control of the ball during dribbling and prevent unfair advantages.
Common Carrying Violations
Carrying violations in basketball can happen in various forms, some of which are listed below:
- Palming the ball: When a player allows their hand to scoop underneath the ball while dribbling, which results in the ball coming to a momentary rest.
- Turning the ball over: Occurs when a player places their hand on the lower half of the ball and alters the upward and downward motion during dribbling.
- Pausing the dribble: If a player stops their dribble by supporting the ball from underneath (even for a second) and then resumes dribbling, it is considered a carry.
These violations, when detected by the referee, result in a turnover, allowing the opposing team to gain possession of the ball. By understanding and adhering to these rules, players can avoid carrying violations and maintain fair play during basketball games.
