NBA Board approves new rules for 2018-19 season

World
Europe

Three rules changes have been unanimously approved by the NBA Board of Governors on Friday, including shot clock, clear path foul rule and an expanded definition of a "hostile act".

Beginning with the 2018 NBA preseason, the shot clock will reset to 14 seconds in offensive rebounding situations, as opposed to 24, a measure aimed at increasing shot attempts particularly late in close games.

The shot clock reset to 24 seconds anytime the ball hit the rim in previous seasons.

VCG Photo

The change to the clear-path foul erases some of the judgment calls for referees by requiring only that the offensive player is ahead of all defensive players and in control of the ball or ready to receive an already released pass.

The previous rule included more nuance about the defender's specific positioning and opportunity to make a play. The new language removes the requirement for the play to start in the backcourt, since transition plays can begin in the frontcourt.

The third rule adopted relates to any "hostile act" that triggers the use of instant replay to include not just player-to-player interactions but also any hostile interaction between a player and a coach, referee or fan.

Source(s): Reuters