Last updated on November 3rd, 2023 at 08:33 am
Goaltending is a penalty in basketball when a player interferes with a ball via a scoring chance. The rule is the same across the NCAA, NBA, WNBA, and High School. This penalty has several features that separate it from an interference call, which is a similar penalty.
What is the Penalty for Defensive Goaltending?
During a basketball game, a defensive goaltending violation results in automatic points for the offensive team. The points that go to the offensive team result in where that shot took place. For example, if the goaltending violation took place from a three-point shot, the offensive team receives 3 points.
For the box score of the game, the shooter will receive point credits even with the assistance of goaltending. That is important for any fantasy basketball player that their player still receives point credit on a goaltend.
Finally, if a player blocks a shot during a free throw attempt, the team receives a technical foul. Also, that block shot automatically counts as one point.
What’s the Difference Between Goaltending and Basket Interference?
When referees look at a basket in the NBA, they take note of several parts about it. Namely, baskets have a backboard, a net, a hoop, and an imaginary cylinder that traces the space of the hoop upwards.
For a player to commit goaltending, they must touch the ball while it is on a downward trajectory on the way to the basket. This downward trajectory can start as either a free throw or a field goal attempt. Further, the goaltending rule stipulates that the ball must be above the hoop to qualify for a penalty but not touching the invisible cylinder.
Suppose a defensive or offensive player touches the ball while it is in the imaginary cylinder. The play is automatically called basket interference. Players also can’t touch the net or hoop to prevent the other team from scoring. The only exception is if a player is touching the hoop due to a dunk or layup.
What about Offensive Goaltending?
Offensive players can also commit goaltending penalties, which is offensive goaltend. This often happens when offensive players move the rim down to help the ball go into the net. If the ball goes into the hoop due to offensive goaltending, the offensive team receives no points, and the goaltender’s team loses possession of the ball.
What is the Difference Between Blocking and Goaltending?
If you’re wondering whether a block was a goaltending violation, pay attention to the trajectory of the ball. It would be a block if the ball were in upward flight, say from a field goal attempt. The rulebook specifies that downward flight is necessary for a goaltending penalty.
Similarly, a player going for a rebound may get a goaltending violation if the ball is in downward flight above the hoop. The ball must be below the basket ring level for someone to safely recover the ball for a rebound.
Conclusion: What is Goaltending in Basketball?
In summary, goaltending is a rule during a basketball game to ensure that no players interfere with the routine flight of a ball into the hoop. While this rule is closely related to basket interference, a key difference sets it apart. Namely, goaltending happens while the basketball has a downward trajectory to the hoop, while a basket interference can occur on the rim, the net, and more to help the ball go in or stay out.
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Greg Kristan, owner of The Stadium Reviews, LLC and TM Blast, LLC, brings his extensive experience visiting over half of the MLB ballparks, along with numerous MLS, NHL, NBA, and NFL venues, to provide in-depth coverage on the bag policy, food options, and parking. He has also been interviewed about his experiences on several sports podcasts.