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Last updated: Feb 01, 2023
Halftime in basketball is a period of time in between the first and second halves (2nd and 3rd quarters). It represents the longest break in gameplay during regulation at all levels of basketball. Read on to learn more about halftime in basketball.
Table of Contents
- Regulation
- Halftime
- Halftime Show
- Restarting Play
- FAQ
Regulation
Basketball games are made up of quarters and halves. In the NBA, basketball games have four quarters. In men’s college basketball, there are two halves in a game.Together, these quarters and halves are called regulation time. The game clock counts down to the end of each quarter or half.
Halftime
A longer break from play called halftime happens halfway through every basketball game.In the NBA, halftime happens after the second quarter. In men’s college basketball, halftime happens after the first half.
During halftime, play is suspended. Players and coaches go into the locker rooms to strategize for the next half of the game. Halftime lasts 15 minutes in the NBA and NCAA.This allows both teams adequate time to rest and restrategize for the second half.
Halftime Show
Sometimes, a halftime show is held on the court during halftime.Halftime shows consist of a form of entertainment, such as a fan competition, cheerleading squad, or dancing team.
Some halftime shows have contests, like having a fan try and hit a halfcourt shot for money. Other halftime shows have giveaways like free T-shirts for fans. They keep the crowd engaged during this gap in the game.
Restarting Play
In the NBA, the team that starts with the ball after the first quarter is determined by which team won the tip-off. The team that wins the initial jump ball will receive the ball in the fourth quarter, while the other team gets the ball for the start of the second and third quarters.The ball is inbounded at the baseline opposite the attacking basket.
In college, the possession arrow determines which team gets the ball to start the second half.The possession arrow points toward the team that loses the tip-off, then switches direction after each jump ball scenario. Instead of having a jump ball on every held ball, college referees award possession based on the possession arrow.
FAQ
What is halftime in basketball?
Halftime in basketball is the period of time between the second and third quarters in the NBA and first and second halves in NCAA.The halftime break is a 15-minute break in gameplay for teams and players to go back to the locker room to rest and strategize.
