Proper Use of Approved Signals

Signals are a universal language in officiating. Using the correct, approved signals (not improvised or personal gestures) ensures clarity, consistency, and credibility. Every league (NFHS, NCAA, and NBA/Pro-Am) provides its own mechanics manual, and it is your responsibility to follow the mechanics that apply to the level you are working.

In this sublesson, you’ll learn when and how to use approved signals, when limited non-approved signals are appropriate, and how to ensure your communication on the court remains professional.

Using the Approved Signal for the Illegal Act

Your credibility as a referee is directly tied to your mechanics. Call what happened, then signal what happened.

• If you call a block, report a block.
• If you call a push, report a push.
• Never invent signals or “freestyle” mechanics.
• Coaches immediately lose trust when they see improvised or inconsistent signaling.

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[Source: National Federation of High Schools (NFHS) / www.nfhs.org](attachment:8a406003-b1b4-4359-be08-2d77279d4ed0:2025-26-nfhs-basketball-official-signals-final-for-website.pdf)

Source: National Federation of High Schools (NFHS) / www.nfhs.org

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Follow Your League’s Mechanics Manual

Each level has slight differences in mechanics, especially with:

• Player control / team control signals
• Block / charge presentations
• Approved preliminary signals
• Reporting style

You must adjust to exactly what your league mandates. Not doing so creates confusion for assignors, partners, and evaluators.