OFFICIAL LEAGUE RULES
1. League Overview
Off The Dribble (OTD) is a professional 1v1 basketball league built for elite competition, entertainment, and fairness. All games are governed by this rulebook. Referees maintain full authority and all decisions are final.
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2. Pre-Game Procedures
Both players are granted equal warm-up time prior to competition. A mandatory pre-game meeting is held with the referee to review rules and clarify any questions before play begins.
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3. Court & Boundaries
The sidelines, baselines, and half-court line are considered out of bounds. The three-point arc used (college or NBA distance) is determined by the venue.
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4. Check-Ups & Starting Possession
All possessions begin with a referee-controlled check-up. The offensive player must establish both feet fully behind the three-point line and step straight back to receive the ball. Lateral movement is not permitted. Defenders must allow a clean check. Self-checks are prohibited.
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5. 15-Second Check-Up Rule
After any made or missed basket, the offensive player has fifteen (15) seconds to retrieve the ball, establish both feet behind the three-point line, and be ready for the referee-initiated check. Failure to do so results in an automatic loss of possession.
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6. Dribble & Movement Rules
A maximum of four (4) dribbles is permitted per possession. A fifth dribble results in an automatic turnover. Once dribbles are exhausted, the offensive player must attempt a shot within five (5) seconds.
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7. Possession Ends When
A possession ends on any shot attempt, turnover, free throw attempt, jump ball, tie-up, or violation. If the defender contacts the ball and it touches the floor, possession ends. If the offensive player regains control before the ball touches the floor, play continues with no remaining dribbles.
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8. Scoring System
Shots inside the arc are worth two (2) points. Shots outside the arc are worth three (3) points. Free throws are worth one (1) point. The first player to reach thirty (30) points wins. There is no game clock and games may end on a free throw.
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9. Score Cap RuleA player's score may not exceed thirty (30) points. Any scoring action that would push a player beyond thirty is capped at thirty for official scoring purposes.
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10. Fouls & Free Throws
A shooting foul on a missed shot results in one (1) free throw. If made, the offensive player keeps possession; if missed, possession changes. Shooting fouls on made baskets do not result in free throws.
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11. Take Fouls
A take foul is defined as any foul committed to stop play without a legitimate basketball attempt. All take fouls result in two (2) free throws. Possession resumes with a standard check-up.
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12. Multiple Fouls
Two fouls committed during the same possession result in one (1) free throw. The foul count resets afterward. A missed free throw results in a turnover.
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13. Defensive Rules
One-hand contact is permitted on the catch. Two-hand contact, hands on shoulders, or excessive contact is a foul. Defenders must respect check-up space at all times.
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14. Dead-Ball Procedures
The offensive player must re-establish both feet behind the arc before each possession. Players must say 'not ready' if unprepared. Ball issues must be reported immediately.
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15. Conduct & Sportsmanship
Basketball-related trash talk is allowed. Personal, threatening, or offensive language is prohibited. Technical fouls may be assessed for fighting, post-play contact, ball throwing, excessive slamming, or disrespect toward officials.
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16. Delay of Game
Delay of game includes holding the ball after a score, intentionally stalling check-ups, or avoiding live play.
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17. Technical Penalties
The first technical foul results in one (1) free throw and loss of possession. Second and subsequent technical fouls result in two (2) free throws and loss of possession.
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18. Timeouts & Game Flow
Each player is allowed two (2) timeouts per half. Calling a timeout without one available results in a technical foul. Halftime occurs when a player reaches fifteen (15) points.
19. Paint & Positioning Rules
The three-second rule is enforced for offensive players in the paint. Defenders must occupy designated lane spots during free throws unless instructed otherwise.
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20. Equipment & UniformsPlayers must wear identifiable attire. Jewelry or dangerous accessories are prohibited. Only league-approved basketballs may be used.
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21. Bench Responsibility
Players are responsible for the conduct of their bench, guests, and team personnel. Bench misconduct may result in technical fouls charged to the player.
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22. Referee Authority
Referees have full authority to enforce all rules. All calls are final. No reviews are permitted under any circumstance.