The NBA’s rule book on traveling violations has been updated with new language, aiming to bridge the gap between the written rule and its application on the court. This revision primarily focuses on formally defining the “gather” and clarifying the number of steps a player can take after the gather. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the updated rule.
Defining the “Gather” in the NBA
A key addition to the NBA rule book is a formal definition of the “gather.” This is crucial for understanding traveling violations. The rule defines the gather in two scenarios:
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Receiving a Pass or Loose Ball: The gather occurs when a player gains sufficient control of the ball to hold it, change hands, pass, shoot, or cradle it against their body.
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Dribbling: The gather is defined as the moment a player:
- Places both hands on the ball, or allows the ball to come to a rest, while in control.
- Puts a hand under the ball and brings it to a pause.
- Otherwise gains enough control of the ball to hold it, change hands, pass, shoot, or cradle it against their body.
LeBron James dribbling the ball
Integrating the Gather into the Traveling Rule
The updated rule explicitly incorporates the “gather” into the traveling rule, providing clarity on the number of steps a player is allowed after receiving the ball while moving or completing their dribble.
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Gathering While Progressing: A player who gathers the ball while moving can (a) take two steps to stop, pass, or shoot, or (b) if they haven’t dribbled yet, take one step before releasing the ball to start the dribble.
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Gathering While Dribbling: A player who gathers the ball while dribbling is permitted two steps to stop, pass, or shoot.
Stephen Curry shooting a jump shot
It’s important to note that the first step is defined as when a foot (or both feet) touches the floor after the player gathers the ball.
Example Scenarios
To better understand the application, consider these examples:
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Catching and Shooting: A player catches a pass while running. The moment they secure the ball (the gather), they can take two more steps to come to a stop and shoot. The first step is when either foot touches the ground after the gather.
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Dribble to Stop: A player is dribbling, then decides to stop and pass. The moment they put two hands on the ball (the gather), they get two steps to stop and make a pass. Again, the first step is the first foot contact after the gather.
Ja Morant passing the ball
Conclusion
The NBA’s updated traveling rule, with its formal definition of the “gather,” aims to clarify the legal movements of players. By understanding the precise moment of the gather, players, coaches, and fans can better interpret traveling calls. The rule still allows for two steps after the gather to stop, pass, or shoot, but the definition of the gather is crucial for consistent application. The changes are designed to ensure fair play and make the game easier to understand.
