The Olympic basketball competition kicks off this Saturday. Here is a rundown of some of the major rule differences between U.S. Basketball (NBA) and international competition (FIBA).
The Key:
In the US, the key is 16′ wide and a rectangle while at the Olympics you will see a trapezoid, which is 12′ wide at the free throw line and 19’8″ at the baseline. In International play, this allows for less post play and more of an open style of play, which hurts the Americans who usually have the more dominant post-up big men.
Goaltending:
One of the biggest differences between International competition versus U.S. leagues. In international competition, a player can grab, swat and do whatever it wants to the ball once it hits the rim no matter if it is in the cylinder or not. Look for this to be a key on free throws and anytime “Superman” aka Dwight Howard is in the game.
Three-Point Line:
The International line is 20’6″ all around while the NBA line is 23’9″ at the top and 22′ in the corners. The International line should be a big advantage to players like Michael Redd and you would think the U.S. players would find it advantegeous as it is so closer than what they are use to. However, the International players are better shooters, thus creating the advantage towards them.
Hand-Checking:
Hand-Checking is when a player uses their hand on defense to impede the forward progress of the offensive player. It is legal in International play but illegal in the NBA.
Ball over Backboard:
In International play, if the ball goes over the backboard, it is still considered in play (if it doesnt hit any supports). In the NBA, once the ball goes over the backboard it is considered out of bounds. The rule change is not a huge factor in the game but may cause one or two possessions to be quite confusing for the American players.
