What Is a Charge In Basketball and Its Punishment?

What is a charge in basketball? Technically, it’s when the offensive player stands still and then takes two steps or jumps into an opponent, who has established position. It’s usually called if the defender was not moving at all before the offensive player took those steps/jumped. A charge can be called on either side of the court. So what happens next? The referee will blow his whistle and stop play to call this foul which typically results in two free throws for the defensive team. This is one of our most commonly asked questions so we’re glad you’ve found your way here! 

What Is a Charge In Basketball

A charge in basketball is when an offensive player runs into a defender who is standing in the way. This is called a foul and results in a change of possession. Players are not allowed to take a charge if they are not in the paint, and they must be set before the offensive player begins their move. Charges can often lead to exciting plays and quick turnovers, which is why this play is so frustrating for defense.

What Is Charging Rules And When Occur Foul

A defensive player trying to get a charge must not move into the path of an opponent with the ball and should establish a position in a legal guarding stance before the offensive player moves to these positions. It is legal for a defender to take a position directly between his opponent and the basket and not move, thus forcing the offensive player to go around him.

A defender is allowed to take a position on the path of an opponent within one step if he moves quickly enough toward his opponent to make an effective block which causes the opponent to change direction or alter the speed.

A defensive player may not use his hand or foot as leverage to gain an advantage when taking a charge. If any part of the defender’s body other than his feet is touching the ground when he takes the charge, it will not be called a legal play.

Punishment Of a Charging Foul

The penalty for taking a charge is one free throw and possession of the ball for the team that was fouled. If the player taking the charge is in the act of shooting, they will lose the ball and the other team will get possession.

How To Get a Charge

The best way to take a charge is to keep your feet planted and use your body to block the opponent’s path. Always try to anticipate where the offensive player is going, and make sure you’re in a good position before they make their move. Remember, you can’t take a charge if you’re not in the paint, so stay close to the basket!  

Conclusion

A charge is called when an offensive player stands still and then takes two steps or jumps into the defender, who has established position. The referee will blow his whistle to stop play and call this foul which typically results in two free throws for the defensive team. If you ever have any more questions about basketball rules, we’d love to hear from you!