
The rules of high school basketball in Illinois are based on the NFHS Rules (National Federation of State High School Associations). However, there are some modifications for younger grades, such as shorter quarters and fewer timeouts. In addition to game rules, the State Basketball Championship committee has established guidelines for participant conduct, referee feedback, and live streaming of games. These rules are designed to ensure fair play and maintain the integrity of the sport.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Grades 6, 7, and 8 | Four 7-minute stop-clock quarters |
| Grades 4 and 5 | Four 6-minute stop-clock quarters |
| Timeouts | Continuous clock run when a team is leading by more than 20 points in the second half |
| Warm-up time | 5-minute minimum |
| Early starts | Not allowed |
| Halftime | 3 minutes |
| Break between quarters | 1 minute |
| Timeouts per game | 3 (all carry over to the second half) |
| Timeouts per overtime | 1 (no carry over from regulation) |
| Fouls per player | 5 |
| Double bonus | On the 5th foul, and each foul after, a team will shoot |
| Participant conduct | Objectionable behavior may lead to ejection from the facility |
| Referee feedback | Disputes to be addressed with the designated Court Supervisor |
| Live streaming of games | For entertainment purposes only |
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What You'll Learn

Game timings and durations
For 6th, 7th, and 8th grades, the game is divided into four 7-minute stop-clock quarters, whereas for 4th and 5th grades, it's four 6-minute stop-clock quarters. There's a minimum 5-minute warm-up period, and games must start on time, unless a previous game is running behind, in which case the clock starts right after that game ends. Halftime is 3 minutes long, and there's a 1-minute break between the other quarters.
During timeouts, if a team is leading by more than 20 points in the second half, the clock runs continuously until the lead is reduced to under 20 points. At this point, normal stop-clock timing rules apply again. Each team gets 3 timeouts per game, which can be carried over to the second half. There's an additional timeout in overtime, but it doesn't carry over from regulation time.
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Foul rules
Illinois high school basketball follows the rules set by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), with some exceptions. Starting with the 2023-24 season, the Illinois High School Association will implement new free throw rules to reduce injuries and improve game flow.
High school teams will shoot two free throws for common fouls when in the bonus. Teams reach the bonus after recording five fouls in an eight-minute quarter, and the foul total resets at the beginning of each quarter. Previously, a team would reach the bonus after seven fouls in a half. On the 5th foul, and each foul after, a team will shoot a double bonus.
Fouls are counted by quarter, and if a player commits five fouls, they are disqualified from the game. This is known as "fouling out." A player who has committed four fouls must be careful not to commit another, as each subsequent foul will result in their team being penalised.
The new rule is expected to reduce rough play and improve game flow, addressing safety concerns, particularly regarding injuries caused during rebounds on missed one-and-ones.
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Participant conduct
The State Basketball Championship committee has the authority to eject any player, coach, official, or spectator from a facility for objectionable behavior. Coaches are requested to address any officiating disputes professionally with the designated Court Supervisor for their game and to be positive role models for their players. They should refrain from interfering with the scores table. Parents with referee-related issues must go through their coach.
The live streaming of games is solely for entertainment. It cannot be used to review scores, times, or calls. Baden is the official ball of all 2025 State Basketball Championship events.
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Referee feedback
The State Basketball Championship in Illinois follows the NFHS Rules (National Federation of State High School Associations) with a few adjustments. It is important to note that the feedback and instructions provided by the tournament organizers are specifically for referees and coaches, with an emphasis on maintaining professionalism and adhering to the established guidelines.
For coaches, the feedback is clear: any disputes regarding officiating must be handled professionally and directed to the designated Court Supervisor. Coaches are expected to set an example for their players and are instructed not to interfere with the scores table. This ensures that the game is conducted fairly and without unnecessary interruptions.
Parents are also provided with specific feedback and instructions. If a parent has an issue with a referee, they are instructed to address it through the appropriate channel by directing it to their child's coach. This helps maintain a structured feedback process and prevents any potential conflicts or disruptions during the game.
Additionally, the State Basketball Championship committee reserves the right to eject any player, coach, official, or spectator from the facility if their behavior is deemed objectionable. This rule emphasizes the importance of sportsmanship and respect for the game and its officials.
Overall, the referee feedback for the State Basketball Championship in Illinois focuses on maintaining a professional and respectful environment, utilizing the established channels for dispute resolution, and adhering to the NFHS Rules with the specified adjustments.
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Live streaming
The State Basketball Championship in Illinois uses NFHS Rules (National Federation of State High School Associations), with a few exceptions. Live streaming of these games is permitted, but only for entertainment purposes. Streams cannot be used to review scores, timings, or referee calls.
For those looking to live stream Illinois high school basketball games, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, ensure you are familiar with the NFHS rules, which can be accessed and purchased digitally through NFHS AllAccess, or in print via their website. This will provide a comprehensive understanding of the game and its regulations.
When setting up your live stream, consider the equipment you will need. This may include cameras, audio equipment, and streaming software or hardware. Ensure you have the necessary permissions to set up your equipment at the venue, and coordinate with the event organizers or relevant authorities to ensure you are complying with any regulations or restrictions they may have.
It is important to promote your live stream effectively to ensure a wide audience. Utilize social media platforms, local community groups, and basketball fan forums to spread the word. Create engaging content, such as promotional videos or trailers, to build excitement and encourage viewers to tune in.
On the day of the live stream, arrive early to set up your equipment and conduct a sound check. Ensure you have a stable internet connection to provide a seamless streaming experience. It is also crucial to have a backup plan in case of any technical difficulties. This could include having extra equipment on hand or coordinating with the event organizers to utilize their video feed if necessary.
During the live stream, it is essential to adhere to the rules and regulations set by the State Basketball Championship committee. This includes respecting their authority to eject any player, coach, official, or spectator from the facility for objectionable behavior. Remember that the live stream should not be used as a tool to review official decisions, but rather as a way to showcase the talent and excitement of Illinois high school basketball.
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Frequently asked questions
The time rules for high school basketball games in Illinois are as follows:
- 5-minute warm-up time (minimum)
- No early starts
- The clock starts right after the previous game ends if the game is running behind
- 3-minute halftime
- 1-minute break between quarters
- 4 7-minute stop-clock quarters for 6th, 7th, and 8th grades; 4 6-minute stop-clock quarters for 4th and 5th grades (except during timeouts, when a team is leading by more than 20 points in the second half, the clock will run continuously until the lead is below 20 points, at which point normal stop-clock timing rules apply)
There are 3 timeouts allowed per game, all of which carry over to the second half. There is also 1 additional timeout per overtime, but it does not carry over from regulation.
Each player is allowed 5 fouls. On the 5th foul, and each foul after, a team will shoot double bonus.




































