Come on, ref, that's Over the Back! (10.7.1- 4-37 Contact)

The phrase “over the back” is one of the most

confusing, misunderstood, and misused terms in basketball.

While some may understandably use it to describe illegal contact while rebounding, it is not an official term used by basketball referees and is not a foul in and of itself.

The rules state that illegal contact is needed for a foul, not just the presence of one player's body behind another's. “Over the back” can be used to more accurately describe other fouls, such as a pushing violation, but it is important to note that illegal contact must be present for a foul to be called in any situation.

After all, taller players should not be penalized for reaching over the back of shorter players to get the ball, as their body is naturally higher in the air than their opponent’s.

When it comes to rebounding, players may not displace, charge or push an opponent, extend their body parts into an opponent, or hold an opponent in order to gain the rebound. Moreover, all players are entitled to their spot on the court, provided they get there first without illegally contacting an opponent.

It is, therefore, crucial to remember that the phrase “over the back” does not imply a foul, but should instead be used to describe a type of contact that, if detected, would surely result in a foul call. It is not unfair athleticism that deserves punishment, it is a reminder of the importance of knowing and respecting the rules of basketball.

At the end of the day, basketball players are expected to understand and abide by the laws of the game to prevent unnecessary contact and fouls. Ignorance of these rules is no excuse and simply cannot be used to excuse any illegal action. Basketball players should hence strive to LOCK IT DOWN and recognize that reaching over a player without illegal contact is a legal and fair way to go after a rebound.