What is goaltending in basketball?
I · Intermediate · Violations · 8 of 13Goaltending is touching a shot while the ball is completely above the ring and on its way down, or after it has touched the backboard. If a defender does it, the points are given as if the shot went in. Under FIBA rules, once the ball has touched the ring, players may play it.
How it works
Goaltending:
- On a shot: touching the ball while it is wholly above the ring and either falling towards the basket or after it has touched the backboard.
- On a free throw: touching the ball in flight before it touches the ring.
- The restriction ends when the ball has touched the ring or can no longer go in.
- Touching the basket or backboard while the ball is in contact with the ring.
- Reaching up through the basket from below to touch the ball.
- A defender touching the ball or basket while the ball is within the basket.
- Making the basket shake, or grasping it, so that the ball is kept out or helped in.
Penalty:
- By the defence: 1, 2 or 3 points are awarded, as if the ball had gone in.
- By the attack: no points; the ball to the opponents.
- By a defender on a last free throw: 1 point and a technical foul.
Tricky cases
Can a player tap the ball off the rim?
Yes, under FIBA rules, once the ball has touched the ring and is no longer in contact with it. A player must not touch the basket or backboard while the ball is on the ring.
Is blocking a shot on its way up goaltending?
No. A block is legal while the ball is rising, unless it has touched the backboard.
Is hanging on the ring allowed?
Only for a moment after a dunk, or to avoid injuring someone. Otherwise it is a technical foul.
Why the rule exists
A shot on its way down has beaten the defence. Without the rule, a tall player could stand at the ring and swat everything away.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| FIBA rules | As above | A31; A36.2.1 |
| NBA | The ball on or above the ring may not be touched in more situations | Not covered |
From the rule book
FIBA Official Basketball Rules 2026, Articles 31 and 36.2.1, valid from 1 October 2026. Checked 13 October 2026. Official document: FIBA Official Basketball Rules (PDF).