INDIANAPOLIS, IN (May 2, 2024) — High school basketball is set to undergo significant rule changes for the upcoming 2024-25 season, including measures to address the practice of faking fouls, commonly known as “flopping.” The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Basketball Rules Committee has introduced 12 revisions to the rules, aiming to enhance player safety, fairness, and game integrity.
One of the key changes pertains to the introduction of a new definition and warning system for flopping, which involves players simulating fouls through exaggerated movements or theatrics. The revised Rule 4-49-1 defines flopping and establishes a protocol for officials to issue a team warning for the first instance of such behavior. Subsequent violations will result in a team technical foul, signaling a stricter approach to deter dishonest acts on the court.
“The committee’s focus remains on ensuring fair play and fostering a safe environment for student-athletes,” stated Lindsey Atkinson, NFHS Director of Sports. “These rule changes are designed to uphold the integrity of the game while addressing evolving challenges faced by officials and players.”
Billy Strickland, Executive Director of the Alaska School Activities Association and Chair of the Basketball Rules Committee, emphasized the committee’s commitment to eliminating dishonest acts from the sport. “We aim to uphold the principles of integrity and sportsmanship in high school basketball,” said Strickland. “These changes reflect our collective efforts to preserve the integrity of the game.”
In addition to addressing flopping, the rule changes encompass various aspects of the game, including uniform regulations, shot clock provisions, and the use of electronic devices during games. Notably, the revisions aim to streamline officiating processes, clarify pregame violations, and maintain consistency across different scenarios encountered on the court.
The NFHS encourages players, coaches, officials, and fans to familiarize themselves with the updated rules, which will be available on the NFHS website. With basketball being one of the most popular high school sports across the country, these changes are poised to have a significant impact on the upcoming season’s dynamics and gameplay.
For more information on the revised rules and their implications, visit www.nfhs.org and navigate to the “Basketball” section under “Activities & Sports.”
