Rules Changes for the 2009-2010 Season

1.  REPLAY MONITORS - During state championship series contests only, game or replay officials are now permitted to use a replay monitor to determine when a try for goal at the expiration of time in the 4th quarter (or any overtime period) should be counted and, if so, to determine if it is a 2 point or a 3 point goal.   (NOTE:  this does not apply during regular season play!)

2.  RED LIGHT or LED Backboard Lights - When a red light behind the backboard or an LED light on the backboard is present, it is permitted to signal the expiration of time at the end of any period.  If the lights are not present, the audible timer's signal (horn....) will be used to signal the expiration of time.  (NOTE:  this simply legalizes what was already being done in some high school games, especially those played on college courts.)

3.  TIME OUT RECTANGLE - This is an editorial change that clarifies the imaginary rectangle that designates the area to be used for time-outs.  (NOTE:  coaches are simply being asked to keep their teams in the general area of the bench during time-outs.)

4.  INJURED PLAYER - A note has been added to clarify when the 20-second interval begins for a coach to replace an injured player.  (NOTE:  in the past, there was sometimes a question.  We'll get to specifics in another column.)

5.  PLAYER SAFETY - As always, player safety is a primary concern in high school basketball.  This editorial note simply clarifies that any item, in the referee's judgment, that constitutes a safety concern is not permitted.  (NOTE:  officials have typically assumed this responsibility under Rule 2-3.  This editorial revision simply makes it a part of the rules so that there is no question that the official has the final word.)

6.  MARKED LANE SPACE - Two editorial changes:

    A.  The first change defines the limits of a marked lane space to be 36" X 36".   Officials and players will know that contact with any part of the court outside this space will be considered as a situation where the player has "left a marked lane space."

    B.  The second change clarifies that a player occupying a marked lane space must have one foot positioned near the outer edge of the free throw lane line.  The other foot can be anywhere else within the 36" X 36" space.

(NOTE:  These two editorial changes will help define the limits of a player's movements while waiting for a free throw to hit the rim.  It will help reduce the "running start" and "crashing" that was sometimes occurring.)

In addition to the above changes, the following "POINTS OF EMPHASIS" will be included in this year's rules.  This means that officials will be asked to place greater focus on the following:

1.  Traveling

2.  Closely Guarded

3.  Three Seconds

4.  Block/Charge

5.  Free Throw Administration

Do you have a question? Have you seen a play you didn't understand? Was there a controversy you'd like clarified?  Send your questions in and I'll do my best to get you an answer.

Skip Yutzler

IAABO Board 127

39 Years High School and Junior College Official

5 Times NY State HS Championships - Glens Falls

# 65

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