Possession Arrow

What is the Possession Arrow in Basketball?

The possession arrow is an essential aspect of the game of basketball, particularly in college and high school levels. This rule, officially known as the alternating-possession procedure, serves as a replacement for the jump ball, which was commonly used in the past to resolve situations where definitive control of the ball is unclear. As a result, understanding the possession arrow’s purpose and implementation is crucial for both players and fans alike.

In basketball, the possession arrow is important when a held ball or jump-ball situation occurs. These scenarios often include tie-ups between players from opposing teams, making it difficult to determine which side should gain possession. The possession arrow, usually displayed on the scorers’ table, alternates between teams as they gain possession, eliminating the need for additional jump balls and ensuring a fair resolution to contested situations.

By employing the possession arrow rule, basketball games can maintain a more efficient flow and minimize disputes related to ball possession. The possession arrow system has proven its effectiveness over time, solidifying its place as an indispensable part of the sport.

Definition of the Possession Arrow

The possession arrow in basketball is a method used to establish which team gains possession of the ball after a held-ball or jump-ball situation occurs. The arrow, often displayed on the scorers’ table, alternates directions and points to the team that will receive the next possession. The objective of this rule is to fairly distribute ball possessions between both teams without resorting to constant jump ball situations.

Origin of the Rule

The possession arrow rule, also known as the alternating-possession rule, was introduced in 1981. Before its implementation, jump balls were used to determine possession in situations where clear control of the ball was not established. However, the jump ball method was observed to be time-consuming and disruptive to the flow of the game. As a result, the possession arrow rule was devised as a more efficient alternative for determining possession in such situations.

Purpose and Usage

The primary purpose of the possession arrow is to provide a fair and orderly method for determining possession in scenarios where both teams gain simultaneous control of the ball. When a held-ball situation occurs, the possession arrow’s direction is consulted, and the team it points towards gains possession of the ball via a throw-in.

The usage of the possession arrow can be summarized as follows:

  1. Opening tip-off: The possession arrow remains off until one team gains control of the ball after the opening tip-off. Once this happens, the arrow is activated and points towards the team that lost the opening tip.
  2. Held-ball situation: When a held-ball situation occurs, the team indicated by the arrow’s direction is granted possession. After this, the arrow switches directions to alternate possession for future held-ball situations.

By implementing the possession arrow rule, basketball games benefit from a more streamlined approach to deciding possession in contested situations, ultimately leading to a smoother and faster-paced game.

Possession Arrow Procedure

Alternating Possession Rule

The possession arrow in basketball is a method for determining which team gains possession of the ball after a held ball or jump-ball situation occurs. Officially known as the alternating possession procedure, this rule has been in place since 1981. The possession arrow, commonly displayed on the scorers’ table, alternates between teams as they gain possession. Initially, the team that loses the opening jump ball receives the first arrow advantage.

Application in Game Scenarios

In game scenarios, there are a few situations when the possession arrow comes into play:

  1. Held ball situation: When two players from opposing teams both have their hands on the ball simultaneously and neither can gain sole possession.
  2. Jump-ball situation: When the ball becomes dead and neither team has possession. This usually happens in the beginning of the game or at the start of an overtime period.
  3. Technical fouls: When technical fouls result in a loss of possession for the offending team.

When any of these situations occur, the team with the possession arrow pointing in their favor is awarded the ball. Following this, the arrow is reversed, pointing to the team that did not receive the ball.

Exceptions to the rule:

  • In the NBA and WNBA, the possession arrow is not used, and instead, a jump ball is conducted between the two players involved in the held-ball situation.
  • In FIBA (International Basketball Federation) competitions, the possession arrow is used, but there are certain situations where a jump ball is conducted instead.

By incorporating the possession arrow into the game, basketball aims to ensure fairness and avoid repeated jump balls, providing a more balanced and enjoyable match for players and spectators alike.