Basketball Rule Book for 8-9 Year Olds & 10-12 Year Olds

General Rules (Applicable to Both Divisions)

Game Duration:

- Four 8-minute quarters.

- Running clock, except during free-throw attempts and timeouts.

- Substitutions occur every 4 minutes. A 1-minute break is allowed during substitution times.

- No halftime due to frequent stoppages.

Timeouts:

- One 60-second timeout per half.

Possession:

- No tip-offs. The ball will be inbounded at half court, with the home team getting the first possession.

Free Throws

- We will shoot free throws, but this will be the only time the shot clock stops. Each player will shoot a single free throw, and if they make it, it will count as two points. This approach helps players develop proper alignment skills while keeping the game flowing efficiently.

Defense:

- Man-to-Man Defense Only: Zone defense is not permitted. Players must guard their assigned opponent.

- No Pressing: Full-court or half-court pressing is not allowed at any time.

Scoring:

- Three-point shots are allowed in both divisions if the court has a three-point line.

3-Second Rule:

- Offensive players may not remain in the key for more than 3 seconds.

Screening:

- Legal screening is allowed; however, moving screens will be called as a violation.

Substitutions:

- All players must have an opportunity to play. Coaches must rotate players to ensure balanced participation.

Officials:

- Referees are encouraged to explain infractions to players to promote learning and skill development.

8-9 Year Olds

Basket Height: 9 feet.

Ball Size: Size 5 (27.5 inches in circumference).

Defense:

- Man-to-Man Defense Only (No Zone).

- No pressing allowed.

Stealing:

- Stealing is allowed only off passes. No stealing from the dribbler.

Fouls:

- Fouls are not tracked for this division.

10-12 Year Olds

Basket Height: 10 feet.

Ball Size: Size 6 (28.5 inches in circumference).

Defense:

- Man-to-Man Defense Only (No Zone).

- No pressing allowed.

Stealing:

- Stealing is permitted off passes and from the dribbler.

Fouls: 

- Players foul out after 5 personal fouls.

Additional Notes:

Sportsmanship:

- Coaches, players, and spectators are encouraged to maintain a positive and supportive environment at a

Development Focus:

- Rules are designed to emphasize skill development and understanding of the game, particularly through t

Coach Responsibility:

- Coaches should ensure all players get equitable playtime and that the focus remains on fun and learning.