AboutBret Temple Expertise My expertise happens to be in Basketball Officiating. So I can answer any question pertaining to Basketball Rules.
Experience I have been a Basketball Official now for over 15 years, officiating from junior basketball Leagues all the way up to the High school Level.
Education/Credentials El Sorrino Officials Association Basketball School
Question Bret. Can you site that rule in the NBA rulebook? I am shocked that one can put ones arm out and prevent an opponent from going around you to rebound. Can you actually hold the opponent with those arms as he tries to get by you? In our pick-up games, guys are very aggressive in trying to prevent my employing my only basketball skill: rebounding. They put their arms behind them and trap me behind their backs and, literally, hold me in a "cage" with their arms. It's "offensive holding" as far as I'm concerned. :)
Answer Hi Matt,
I do not have an NBA rulebook, but I can tell you from what your describing, what they are doing is illegal. Boxing out consists of using your body to gain position in order to attempt a rebound. You are allowed to spread your arms out to try and block others from getting position, but you cannot hold anyone. The problem with pick up games is it becomes "Street Ball" and if someone is holding you, you have to be more physical and push them away. It's not like organized games that are officiated. I hope that helps.
