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Basket Interference in Basketball: Understanding Offensive and Defensive Violations

Basket interference in basketball is a nuanced rule that often leaves fans and players debating its intricacies.

This violation occurs when a player illegally touches the ball or any part of the basket while the ball is on the rim, within the cylinder extending upwards from the rim, or when manipulating the rim itself.

Understanding these rules is crucial, especially since interpretations can vary between high school, college, and professional leagues.

For instance, under NCAA rules, even a pass touched within the cylinder counts as basket interference, whereas the WNBA might not consider such a play a violation.