THE Australian National Basketball League (NBL) is exploring a series of rule changes aimed at adding more excitement to games, including a proposal that would award four points for successful shots taken from the halfcourt logo.
The proposed changes were discussed by league officials as part of efforts to introduce new concepts and attract more viewers to the competition.
The four-point shot, which would reward players who make baskets from the designated halfcourt area, is among the more radical ideas being considered.
However, the NBL was unable to secure approval from FIBA in time to test the rule during this week’s preseason Blitz in Bendigo.
Basketball Australia had initially supported the proposed innovations but later clarified that any changes to the rules must first receive clearance from FIBA.
The NBL has not abandoned the idea and could revisit the proposals in future preseason or exhibition games once the necessary approval is obtained.
Other concepts under consideration include player-only timeouts, which would allow a player in possession of the ball to call a 30-second timeout involving only teammates on the court.
The league has developed a reputation for experimenting with new ideas under owner Larry Kestelman, having previously introduced initiatives such as Hoops Fest and the Ignite Cup.
Meanwhile, the Women’s NBL (WNBL) has received approval to test three rule changes during its September preseason tournament in Townsville.
Those proposals include player-only timeouts, a free throw that could result in a maximum number of points, and immediate inbound passes from the backcourt.
WNBL chief operations officer Justin Nelson said the changes could potentially be adopted for the regular season depending on the results of the trials. (Adrian Co)
