PBA set to introduce new FIBA rules

Sports

A NEW set of FIBA rules will be introduced once the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup resumes on Oct. 7.

PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial said the introduction of the new rules is in compliance with the FIBA guidelines.

Coaches and representatives of the 12 PBA teams have already been briefed on the latest developments.

Marcial said employing the new rules will help PBA players, especially those suiting up for Gilas Pilipinas, familiarize with the FIBA rules.

The introduction of the new rules comes a month before the next window of the World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers.

Under the new FIBA guidelines, unsportmanlike will be classified into unsportmanlike fouls into two categories: flagrant and disruptive.

Flagrant fouls (excessive contact) merit two free throws plus ball possession for the opposing team. A player whistled for two flagrant fouls is disqualified from the game.

Disruptive fouls such as holding on to a player to stop the game merits two free throws. Two or more disruptive fouls won't merit a disqualification.

The FIBA also classified technical fouls into two types: Category 1 and Category 2.

Category 1 (Ex. disrespectful to a game official) and Category 2 (delay of game) merits one free throw for the opposing team. A player called for two Category 1 infractions is disqualified from the game. The same penalty is applied to a player whistled for one Flagrant and one Category 1 technical foul.(CCM)