Game Rules & Regulations

Gameplay Rules

All games are governed by the following FIBA rulebooks:

• FIBA 2024-2025 Rule Book
• FIBA 2025 Official Rules on Equipment
• FIBA Official Rule Interpretations

League-Specific Rules & Amendments

Gameplay

1. Teams must have 5 active players to start the game. If a team does not have 5 players, they are granted a 10 minute grace period before the game is deemed a forfeit, scored 0-20.
2. Players on a single team must have same-coloured uniforms with unique jersey numbers.
3. Players may not wear any jewelry while participating in a game.
4. If a player is disqualified (foul out, for example) leaving a team with 4 players, they may continue playing 4 v. 5. If a second individual is disqualified, the game will be deemed a forfeit - either at the score when the 2nd player is disqualified, or if it occurs in the 1st half, a 20-0 forfeit.
5. If a coach is disqualified from a game, the team must have a 2nd coach on the bench or they will be required to forfeit.

Lengths of Times

• Periods: 10 minutes
• Warmup: minimum 10 minutes
• Halftime: 5 minutes
• Timeouts: 1 minute each
• Quarter breaks: 1:30 each
• Overtime: 2 minutes

Overtime

1. If a game is tied after regulation, there will be a 2-minute overtime period. In that period, both teams will receive 1 timeout only (no carryover), fouls will carry over from the 4th quarter (personal and team), and it will begin in the direction of the possession arrow. The direction of action will not change.
2. If a game is still tied after the 2 minute overtime, an ELAM ending will be in effect with a target score of the individual team total + 5 points. In other words, the first team to score 5 points will win. There will be no timer, but the shot clock will continue to be used, and all of the other rules from the original overtime frame will apply.

Rosters

1. All players must be listed on the roster prior to the start of the game. An athlete who shows up late may only enter the game if they were listed on the roster page of the stats app before tip off. No exceptions.
2. If a player arrives after the start of the 4th quarter, they will not be able to enter the game, regardless of whether they were on the roster sheet or not.
3. If a player has been disqualified for personal fouls, they may remain on the team bench, in uniform.
4. If a player or coach has been disqualified for technical, unsportsmanlike or disqualifying fouls - they must leave the gym.
5. The maximum number of players that can be listed on a roster for a single game is 15.
6. Players may not play on two different teams in the NCHC without prior express-written consent from the League Commissioner.

Video Review

At this time, video reviews and coaches challenges will not be in effect. We will work towards implementing a standardized system later on in the season.

Official Resources

Questions?

Have questions about rules or need clarification on a specific situation?

• League inquiries: info@natcaphoops.com
• Need help? Visit our support page