Dead Ball

/ˈdɛd ˈbɔːl/
[ ded bawl ]

Definition of Dead Ball

In basketball, a dead ball is when play is stopped, either due to a rule violation, a timeout, or a foul.

What is a Dead Ball?

What is ?

A dead ball in the context of basketball refers to any period in which the ball isn't in play. This can be due to several reasons like after a score, a foul, a violation of rules, time-outs, or when the referee stops the game for any other reason. During a dead ball situation, no player can score and any motion with the ball is disregarded. The ball is considered back in play or "alive" after it's touched following a throw-in or a free throw.

Examples of how to use the basketball term Dead Ball

What is ?

1. "The referee whistled for a dead ball after the player committed a foul." 2. "During a dead ball situation, the coach called for a time-out to discuss strategy." 3. "Normally, the shot would've count, but the referee had already called a dead ball."

Dead Ball Strategy Tips

What is ?

Remember that during a dead ball situation, it is a good time to substitute players, call timeouts, and talk over strategy with the team. Being aware of dead ball situations can help maximize team performance.
Basketball Terminology

Browse the A-Z of Basketball Terms

Learn essential basketball terminology with definitions, pronunciations and the meaning of each word in layman's terms.

What does Dead Ball mean in Basketball?

In basketball, a Dead Ball is a period where the ball isn't in play, this can be due to a score, foul, violation, time-out, or when the referee stops the game for any other reason.

How would you explain Dead Ball in layman's terms?

A dead ball in basketball is like a pause in the game. It's when the ball isn't in active play. No player can score during a dead ball period.

Can a player score during a dead ball situation in basketball?

No, players cannot score during a dead ball situation as the ball isn't considered in active play.

What happens after a dead ball in basketball?

After a dead ball, play is usually resumed with a throw-in or a free throw, causing the ball to be "alive" again.

What causes a dead ball in basketball?

Several situations can cause a dead ball in basketball, including a foul, violation of rules, a score, time-outs, or the referee stopping the game for any other reason.

More Basketball Terminology

What is ?