A 3-second violation in basketball occurs when an offensive player stays in the key (also known as the paint or the lane) for more than three seconds while their team has possession of the ball. The key is the rectangular area near the basket, and the rule is in place to prevent players from camping out near the basket for an unfair advantage.
There are a few important details about this rule:
1. Offensive Player: The player must be on the offensive team, not the defensive team.
2. 3-Second Limit: The player must leave the key before the 3-second mark if their team still has possession. If the player remains for more than three seconds, the referee will call a violation, and the opposing team will be awarded possession of the ball.
3. Exceptions: If a player is actively involved in a play, like setting a screen or moving around, the referee may not call a violation. Additionally, if the player has established position in the key and their team is passing the ball or attempting to shoot, they may be allowed to stay longer.
4. Defensive Players: The 3-second violation does not apply to defensive players, except for a related rule where a defensive player cannot stay in the key for more than three seconds without guarding an offensive player.
The 3-second rule helps keep the game flowing and prevents players from dominating under the basket without actively participating in the offense.
