The United States Men’s National Team overcame a cold start, defeating Canada 86-72 in the USAB Showcase opener last week in Las Vegas. Many of the early mishaps could be attributed to the process of building team chemistry and adjusting to the differences of the international game.
Olympic basketball operates under rules and regulations set by FIBA, the governing body for international basketball. A breakdown of the differences between NBA and Olympic (FIBA) rules can be seen below:
Field size:
The court size is smaller in international play (91′ 10″ x 49’2.5) than in the NBA (94Γ50).
Play Time:
Four quarters will be played during Olympic competition versus 12 minutes in the NBA.
Three point line:
The three-point line is shorter for FIBA ββgames (6.75 m (6.60 m on the baseline)) than the NBA line 7.24 m (6.70 m on the baseline).
time out:
Teams get seven timeouts in NBA action. During the Olympic basketball games, teams will have two timeouts in the first half and three in the second half. Countries can only use two timeouts in the last two minutes of the 4th quarter.
Foul:
Five fouls and you are disqualified in the Olympiacos game, unlike six fouls in the NBA.
Technical errors:
- FIBA β One free throw and possession in the center
- NBA β One free throw per technical foul. Play continues at the point of interruption. the fault is charged to that person (and automatically fined)
- FIBA: Two free throws awarded for each foul (no shot) after the fourth quarter (including player technical fouls). This does not include offensive fouls or fouls by the team in possession.
- NBA: Two free throws are awarded for each foul after the fourth team foul or in the final two minutes of each quarter, whichever occurs first. This does not include offensive and technical fouls.
Defense:
In the NBA, defensive players cannot remain in a restricted area for more than three seconds unless a player is actively guarding an opponent. This does not happen in FIBA ββgames.
Basket Interference:
Once the ball hits the rim, any player can make a play on the ball (ie kick it away or dunk it), which is not allowed in the NBA.
Travel violation:
After a player catches the ball, they can take a step before dribbling in the NBA. According to FIBA ββrules, unless the player is spinning in place, he must put the ball on the floor before taking a step. Players can step and dribble at the same time.