Andrew Pace
In basketball, defenders may employ various strategies to impede an opponent's field of vision, such as raising a hand or waving their hands. While this action is generally permitted, there are specific circumstances where it may be deemed unsportsmanlike or illegal. For instance, in the NBA, eye guarding, or placing a hand in front of an opponent's eyes when guarding from the rear, is considered illegal and can result in a technical foul. This rule variation exists because of the potential for unsportsmanlike conduct and the risk of injury.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Is covering the eye in basketball legal? | It depends on the league. It is illegal in FIBA, NCAA, and college basketball, but legal in the NBA. |
| Definition | The NBA refers to this move as "eye guarding" or "face guarding". |
| Conditions | It is illegal to cover the eyes of a player who does not have possession of the ball. |
| Reasons for illegality | Covering the eyes of an opponent is considered unsportsmanlike and dangerous. |
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What You'll Learn
Covering eyes in basketball is considered unsportsmanlike
Covering an opponent's eyes in basketball is considered unsportsmanlike and is illegal in many leagues. The act of placing a hand in front of an opponent's eyes, known as "eye guarding" or "face guarding", is specifically addressed in the NBA rules, which state that it is illegal and will result in a technical foul being assessed. This rule only applies when the opponent does not have possession of the ball and is being guarded from the rear.
While it is legal in the NBA, it is considered a violation or illegal in other leagues such as FIBA, college basketball, and recreational basketball in the US. The reason for the negative perception of eye guarding is that it is seen as unsafe, unsportsmanlike, and potentially dangerous. There is also a high chance of a foul being called if the offensive player adjusts their movement, even slightly.
Some basketball players, such as Shane Battier, have famously used this tactic against notable players like Kobe and Durant. However, it is not a commonly employed strategy, possibly due to the risk of committing a foul or the perception that it is unsportsmanlike or improper. Additionally, skilled shooters in the NBA and college basketball are accustomed to practicing with blocking guards, making them less affected by hand distractions.
It is worth noting that simply waving your hands or blocking an opponent's vision of the rim is not the same as eye guarding and may be allowed in certain situations. However, any physical contact with the offensive player, including with the hands or forearm, is generally not permitted in basketball.
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It is illegal in FIBA, NCAA and college basketball
Covering an opponent's eyes in basketball, also known as face guarding or eye guarding, is illegal in FIBA, NCAA, and college basketball. This strategy is considered unsportsmanlike and dangerous, and players risk committing a technical foul if they attempt it.
In FIBA, eye guarding is specifically mentioned in the rule book as a violation. Similarly, in NCAA, it is considered a violation and unsportsmanlike behavior. It is important to note that the rules may vary slightly between different college basketball leagues and organizations, but the consensus is that eye guarding is generally not allowed.
The NBA, on the other hand, has a different definition of face guarding or eye guarding, and it is not explicitly prohibited. Some NBA players, such as Shane Battier, have famously employed this strategy against opponents like Kobe and Durant. However, it is worth mentioning that this tactic is not commonly used in the NBA, possibly due to the risk of committing a foul or the perception that it is unsportsmanlike or improper.
While eye guarding may be effective in disrupting an opponent's vision, it carries a high risk of committing a foul or causing injury. Therefore, it is generally discouraged in FIBA, NCAA, and college basketball, where the focus is on fair play and sportsmanship.
It is important for players to understand the rules and regulations of the specific league or organization they are playing in to avoid violations and ensure a safe and enjoyable game for all participants.
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It is legal in the NBA
Covering an opponent's eyes in basketball, also known as face guarding or eye guarding, is a legal defensive strategy in the NBA. However, it is important to note that this strategy is only legal when the opponent does not have possession of the ball. If the opponent has the ball, contact initiated by the defender, including the use of hands, is not permitted and is considered a violation.
The NBA defines eye guarding as "placing a hand in front of the opponent's eyes when guarding from the rear." This strategy gained fame through Shane Battier, who repeatedly used it against Kobe Bryant and Kevin Durant. While legal in the NBA, it is considered unsportsmanlike and is not a commonly employed tactic.
The effectiveness of eye guarding in the NBA is questionable due to the skill level of players. Highly skilled shooters in the NBA are unlikely to be bothered by a hand in their face, as they train extensively to prepare for such situations. Additionally, there is a risk of committing a foul when attempting to guard an opponent's eyes, as any contact with the offensive player can result in a penalty.
While eye guarding is a legal strategy in the NBA, it is prohibited in other leagues, such as FIBA, college basketball, and recreational basketball. The legality of this defensive tactic varies depending on the specific league and its rules.
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It is dangerous and can cause injuries
Covering an opponent's eyes during a basketball game is not only unsportsmanlike but also dangerous and can lead to injuries. While some players may argue that it is not an effective strategy and does not cause injuries, others disagree. There is a high risk of a finger ending up in the opponent's eye, which can cause serious eye injuries.
In addition, covering an opponent's eyes can lead to a foul being called. A good offensive player can quickly adjust to the situation, resulting in a foul being called on the defender. This is especially true in the case of NBA and college players, who are highly skilled shooters.
Even if no physical contact is made, the act of attempting to cover an opponent's eyes can still be considered unsportsmanlike and result in a technical foul. This is because it is not considered a legitimate basketball play and poses a risk to the safety of the players.
The rules regarding this tactic vary depending on the league and the specific regulations being followed. For example, in the NBA, it is considered legal as long as no contact is made with the offensive player. However, in college basketball and FIBA, it is considered illegal and can result in a technical foul.
Overall, while covering an opponent's eyes may be legal in certain situations, it is important to recognize the potential risks and dangers associated with this tactic. The high risk of injury and the negative impact on sportsmanship make it a generally discouraged practice.
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It is ineffective against good shooters
Covering an opponent's eyes in basketball is generally considered an unsportsmanlike move. It is also ineffective against good shooters. Good shooters do not need a clear view to shoot, and most players' set points are higher than their eyes, so covering their eyes may even make the shot easier.
There are two types of shooters: feel shooters and look shooters. Covering the eyes of a feel shooter will not work because they use their intuition instead of their eyes to judge the arc and power of their shot.
Additionally, if the defender's hand is too close to the offensive player's face, it is likely to be called a foul. A good offensive player can easily adjust their shot, causing the defender to make contact with their hand and resulting in a foul.
Therefore, while covering an opponent's eyes may be legal in certain leagues as long as there is no contact, it is generally ineffective against skilled shooters and can easily backfire, resulting in a foul.
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Frequently asked questions
Covering an opponent's eye is illegal in FIBA, college basketball, and the NCAA. However, it is legal in the NBA.
Covering an opponent's eye is called face guarding or eye guarding.
Covering an opponent's eye is considered illegal because it is unsafe, unsportsmanlike, and can cause injuries.
Covering an opponent's eye is not an effective strategy as good offensive players can adjust and cause a foul.
