https://youtu.be/J0-cG40spsI

Reporting Basketball Numbers

In this lesson, you'll learn how to display player numbers clearly when reporting fouls to the scorer's table. You'll review the proper hand positions for numbers zero through five, how to communicate two-digit jersey numbers, and how number-reporting mechanics may differ across levels of basketball.

Video Transcription

“Welcome to the RefCrew Signal School. In this video, we'll cover how to display basketball numbers when reporting fouls to the scorer's table.

One of the most important parts of reporting a foul is making sure the scorer can clearly identify the player who committed it.

To do this, officials use hand signals to communicate the player's jersey number.

Let's start with the basic numbers.

1. Number Zero
   • To display zero, use a closed fist. Avoid making a circle with your thumb and index finger. A closed fist is clearer and easier for the scorer's table to recognize.
2. Number One
   • To display the number one, raise your index finger while keeping your remaining fingers and thumb tucked in. Make sure your thumb isn't sticking out, as this can make the signal look less professional.
3. Number Two
   • For number two, extend your index and middle fingers while keeping the other fingers and thumb tucked in. Keep your hand steady and make the number easy to recognize.
4. Number Three
   • There are different ways to form the number three with your fingers. You can use your index, middle, and ring fingers, or this other three-finger configuration that feels more comfortable. Personally, I prefer the version that puts less strain on my fingers. The important thing is that the number is clear and consistent.
5. Number Four
   • To display four, extend four fingers while keeping your thumb tucked in.
6. Number Five
   • For number five, extend all five fingers with an open hand.

Now, let's put these numbers together.

When reporting two-digit jersey numbers, display the digits clearly and in the correct order.

At the high school and collegiate levels, you'll commonly see jersey numbers that use digits from zero through five.

However, at the professional level, you'll encounter jersey numbers that include six, seven, eight, and nine. For these numbers, you may need to use additional hand configurations.

For example, seven can be represented by combining five and two, while nine can be represented by combining five and four.

When reporting a number such as 19, make sure the scorer can distinguish the first digit from the second.