Substitution procedures are a key part of basic game administration. When handled cleanly, substitutions help the game flow smoothly. When handled poorly, they can create confusion, delay the game, or lead to unnecessary technical fouls. This sublesson explains when substitutions are legal, who beckons them in, and how officials should manage common substitution scenarios.

Legal Substitution Procedure

Substitutions are only permitted during dead-ball situations. When bringing substitutes into the game, the proper official should:

• Raise an open hand to indicate to partners that substitutions are being allowed
• Use the beckoning substitutes signal
• Keep the hand raised until:
  • All substitutes have entered the court
  • There are ten players on the floor
• Do not lower your hand until you are ready to resume play
  • If your partner is not paying attention proceeds with play, use your whistle to pause them until you are fully ready

This sequence helps prevent confusion and ensures all officials are aware substitutions are taking place.

Who Beckons Substitutes and When

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After Fouls

• Whenever an official calls a foul, they move to the trail position table-side (NFHS, NCAA)
• If the result of the foul is a throw-in, the trail official may bring in substitutes since they are already at the table
• Officials must ensure substitutions are completed and partners are ready before bouncing the ball to the shooter </aside>

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During Free Throws

• In NFHS and NCAA Men’s games, substitutes are permitted to enter before the final free throw
• The trail official is responsible for beckoning substitutes during this window </aside>

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Transition Situations (3-Person Mechanics)

• In transition from one end of the court to the other, the center (slot) official brings in substitutes </aside>

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Front-Court Throw-Ins (3-Person Mechanics)

• When the trail official administers a front-court throw-in, the center (slot) official brings in substitutes
• When the lead official administers a front-court throw-in, the trail official brings in substitutes
• The Center (slot) official does not administer front-court throw-ins. </aside>

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Two-Person Mechanics

• The official not administering the throw-in brings in substitutes </aside>

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Professional-Level Contests

• At the pro level, the official administering the throw-in brings in substitutes </aside>