Comments on the 2014/15 NFHS Rule Changes

Click here to read the rule changes effective for the 2014/15 season.

Free Throw Provisions

By far the biggest rule change for this season, the NFHS rule is now identical to what is enforced at the NCAA levels.  This rule allows the players in a marked lane space (maximum of 6 players: 4 defensive and 2 offensive) to enter the lane on the release of the free thrown.

Under the old rule, all players must wait until the ball hits the rim, backboard, or the free throw ends.

Please note that this new rule applies only to the 6 players in the lane space.  The shooter and the remaining 3 players (who must be past the free-throw line extended) must wait until the ball hits the rim or backboard.

Any violation of this rule results in either an offensive or defensive lane violation with the appropriate enforcement.

Contact

The NCAA made this rule change for the 2013-14 season in order to protect the player with the ball.  The aim of this rule change is to cut down on the illegal contact, reduce physicality, and encourage a more open style of play.

When this rule was first implemented in the NCAA ranks, a lot of people predicted that the number of fouls and foul shots will rise dramatically.  While the number of fouls did rise, albeit by an average a 2 additional fouls per game, the game actually got cleaner.  A good article about it can be found on ESPN.

Remember to remind the players of this rule during the Captain's Meeting prior to the start of the game and practice preventative officiating when possible.  A simple "Hands off!" is a good reminder for them to play defense with their feet.  

A good rule of thumb is that if the contact affects the "RSBQ" of the ball handler, then fill your whistle and make the call!

RSBQ stands for:

• Rhythm
• Speed
• Balace
• Quickness

If any of these have been affected, then the defense has gained an advantage illegally....the definition of a foul.

Excessive Contact and Intentional Fouls

This is an expansion on the rule regarding intentional fouls and should reduce the subjectivity in determining "intent".  If a player makes excessive contact with an opponent regardless of whether that opponent has control of the ball, that may be called as an intentional foul.

Player Equipment/Apparel

Under the old rule, the player must demonstrate medical verification for arm and leg compression sleeves.  That requirement has now been removed.  Players may now wear tights and sleeves as long as the apparel matches the following color requirements:

• black
• white
• beige
• predominant team color

If multiple players choose to wear sleeves, then they must all be of the same color.