Timeouts and Table Area

Understanding timeout procedures and the responsibilities surrounding the scorer’s table is essential for smooth game administration. Proper positioning, communication, and awareness during timeouts demonstrate professionalism and contribute to overall game control.

Timeout Box

• The Timeout Box is an imaginary area located near the scorer’s table.
• It is created by drawing an invisible line from:
  • The nearest free-throw lane line (elbow) to the 28-foot mark on the sideline.
  • The box extends down the sideline to the endline closest to the team bench.
• During timeouts, coaches and players must remain within this box and not extend their huddle onto the playing floor.

Why This Matters:

Keeping teams in the box ensures the playing area remains safe, prevents interference with table crew duties and the other team, and maintains a professional appearance.

Table Crew Locations

• The official scorer, timer, and shot clock operator sit together at the scorer’s table, typically near midcourt.
• The official scorer must wear a striped referee jersey so officials can quickly identify them at any moment (NFHS).
• Table crew responsibilities include:
  • Recording fouls, scores, timeouts, substitutions
  • Operating the game and shot clocks
  • Communicating essential information to officials

Official Responsibilities Regarding the Table Crew

Before every game, officials should:

• Verify proper table setup
• Introduce themselves to the crew