A double-dribble violation, also known as a double-dribble, is an infraction in basketball when a player simultaneously touches the ball with both hands.
Players running with both hands on the ball cannot take any additional steps before passing, shooting, or dribbling again. If they take extra steps while still in possession of the ball, then a double-dribble violation will be called and possession awarded to their opponents.
Rules For Double-Dribble Violation:
Double-dribble violation rule states that a player cannot dribble twice in succession with one hand or any part of the ball simultaneously touching both hands.
The Penalty For Double Dribble Violation:
The penalty for a double-dribble violation consists of an immediate turnover of possession from the offensive team to their opponents. In addition, referees may assess a technical foul should the offense persistently violate this rule. If one team has repeated violations, they may be further punished beyond just loss of possession.
Why Is Double Dribbling Illegal In Basketball?
The primary purpose of this rule is to limit players from taking too many steps while dribbling and from traveling with the ball by constantly switching hands when running up the court. It also prevents players from gaining an advantage by keeping control of the ball for extended periods or bouncing it off their bodies to keep possession.
Other Dribbling Violations In Basketball:
Palming
Palming is when a player holds the basketball in one hand with their palm facing up and does not attempt to dribble it as they move around on offense. When this happens, the referee will blow their whistle and award possession of the ball to the other team due to the illegal movement of having two hands on the ball at once. For a player to continue moving with control while maintaining possession of the ball, they must rotate their wrist to push down with both sides while keeping the basketball close to their body.
Traveling Violation:
The traveling violation occurs when a player takes more than two steps without dribbling or bouncing the ball. It is considered a traveling violation regardless of whether the offensive or defensive team possesses the ball.
What Is The Difference Between The Double Dribble And Carrying The Ball?
A double dribble violation occurs when a player takes more than two steps after taking possession of the ball with both hands or stops, resumes dribbling, and then changes direction without passing or shooting.
A carry violation happens when a player fails to properly bounce the ball on the floor while running or attempting to start a dribble. This often happens when players use their palms to cradle the ball instead of using their fingers to push it forward.
How Many Times Can You Dribble A Basketball?
There is no limit on how many times you can dribble the ball within a single possession. Whether it’s once or twenty times, if done correctly, it will not violate any rules of play.
How Long Can You Hold A Basketball Without Dribbling?
According to the official basketball rules, a player cannot take more than five steps while carrying the ball before passing it away or shooting at the goal. This is known as traveling and shall be called against any player who violates this rule.
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Conclusion:
A double-dribble violation in basketball is a severe infraction of the game’s rules. It occurs when a player illegally dribbles the ball twice or holds it and then resumes dribbling. This violation can result in a turnover, loss of possession, or free throws for the opposing team. As a result, players must remember to follow the game’s rules and only dribble the ball once before passing or shooting.
Clyde Jackson III is a basketball coach and the founder of GCBC Basketball, a basketball-related learning and informational website that focuses on helping young players develop their skills on and off the court. With over 15 years of coaching experience, Clyde has worked with players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to professionals.
