What can a basketball coach do during a game?
A · Advanced · Players, officials and the court · 8 of 9The head coach picks the starting five, requests time-outs and chooses who shoots technical free throws. Either the head coach or the first assistant, one at a time, may stand during play. The head coach and the captain may speak to the referees, politely, only when the ball is dead and the clock is stopped.
How it works
- At least 40 minutes before the start the coach gives the scorer the team list. At least 10 minutes before, the coach signs the scoresheet and marks the five starters.
- Substitutes and other bench members stay seated during play.
- The head coach or first assistant coach requests time-outs.
- The first assistant coach may not communicate with the referees, and takes over if the head coach cannot continue.
- If there is no coach, the captain acts as player head coach.
- The captain represents the team on the court, and is the one who tells the crew chief, within 15 minutes of the end, that the team is protesting the result.
- Technical fouls for the bench are charged to the head coach.
Tricky cases
Can both coaches stand at once?
No. Only one of the head coach and first assistant coach may be standing at any given time.
Can a player call a time-out?
No. Under FIBA rules a time-out is requested by the head coach or first assistant coach.
Why the rule exists
One named person answers for the bench, and one for the players on the floor, so referees know whom to deal with.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| FIBA rules | As above | A6; A7; A18.1 |
From the rule book
FIBA Official Basketball Rules 2026, Articles 6, 7 and 18.1, valid from 1 October 2026. Checked 13 October 2026. Official document: FIBA Official Basketball Rules (PDF).