Basketball England
National Basketball League Regulations
Index
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
Management
Affiliation And Licensing
Entry To Competitions
Match Officials
Team Uniforms
Format Of Competitions And Fixtures
During The Event
National Status, Player Eligibility, Domicile And Issue Of Licences
Facilities
Disciplinary Action
Disputes
Trophies
Final Ties
Duties Of The Commissioner
Procedure In The Event Of Absence Of Match Officials
Licensing Procedures
Issue Of Licences For National Competitions
Validity Of National Competition Licences
National Competitions Licence Cards
Expenses And Fees Of Match Officials
Contract And Transfer System
Promotion / Relegation
Licences
Franchises
The following regulations apply to the competitions listed below:
Under 18 and Under 16 National Cups (Men and Women)
Under 18 Men & Women, Under 16 Men & Women and Under 13/14/15 Leagues
National Founders Cup
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
Affiliation And Licensing
Entry To Competitions
Match Officials
Team Uniforms
Fixtures
During The Event
Facilities
Disciplinary Action
Disputes
Trophies
Final Ties
Duties Of The Commissioner
Procedure In The Event Of Absence Of Match Officials
Licensing Procedure
Licence Issue And Declaration
Eligibility For Under 18 Leagues And Under 18 National Cups
Eligibility For Under 16 Leagues And Under 16 National Cups
Eligibility For Under 15/14/13 Leagues
Eligibility For National Founder's Cup
Authority And Copyright
National Basketball League Regulations 2014/2015
National Basketball League Regulations are subject to approval and change by the Executive Board of
Basketball England
These regulations apply to the following competitions and any other competition under the jurisdiction of
Basketball England:
The Basketball League Ltd (BBL) where specified
National Basketball League (NBL) Division One Men
National Basketball League (NBL) Division Two Men
National Basketball League (NBL) Division Three Men
National Basketball League (NBL) Division Four Men
National Basketball League (NBL) Division One Women / WBBL (as appropriate)
National Basketball League (NBL) Division Two Women / Women’s Leagues (as appropriate)
National Cup, Men and Women
National Trophy, Men and Women
National Shield, Men
Patrons Cup, Men
1.
Management
1.1
The Competitions are the official championships of Basketball England.
1.2
The Executive Board of Basketball England has delegated to the Competitions Review Panel the
responsibility for these competitions. The responsibility for decisions of the Competitions Review
Panel is vested in the Convenor (Competitions) in consultation with the National Leagues Manager
and Chief Executive.
1.3
The Executive Board has nominated a Disciplinary Officer to be responsible for disciplinary matters
related to misconduct of players, match officials and club officials, including Coaches, Asst Coaches,
Substitutes, Team Followers and Club Directors. (See Regulation 10.1).
1.4
An appeal may be made against any decision of the Disciplinary Officer (involving disciplinary action
against the club or individual making the appeal), Officer of Basketball England or Competitions
Review Panel. This may be done by depositing the appeal with Basketball England within a time
period specified by Basketball England (which will be 7 Days of the decision being know, unless
otherwise specified) of the decision being made known to the person or persons or organisation
concerned, or the incident incurring automatic disciplinary points and must be accompanied by a
deposit of £500 for senior competitions and £250 for age group competitions. At the conclusion of
the appeal hearing, the Appeals Panel shall determine whether the appeal fee is returned to the
appellant in full, in part, or not at all. In addition the Appeals Panel may award costs and expenses
against the appellant as it deems appropriate.
Any decision of the Appeals Panel made in accordance with these Regulations shall be final and
binding on the parties.
Normally, when a matter is the subject of an appeal, the Appellant shall submit the substance of their
appeal, in writing, for the attention of the Appeal Panel along with the deposit. If, however, the
Appeal Panel so decides, the Appellant, together with any other party or parties who may be affected
by the decision, may be given the right of a personal hearing, but solely at the discretion of the
Appeals Panel, but not as of right. Normally a personal hearing will be granted in cases related to
disciplinary action.
1.5
By entering and licensing to participate, clubs and individuals must accept these regulations
regarding disciplinary action and appeals.
1.6
i, The Convenor (Competitions) in consultation with the National Leagues Manager shall be
responsible for the selection of teams to compete in the National Basketball League for the
following season, and also for teams to compete in tournaments organised by England
Basketball.
Any appeal lodged regarding the selection of the teams to compete in the Basketball England
League should be made in line with regulation 1.4. Appeals associated with the selection of
teams will be heard by the Executive Board and not by the Appeal Panel.
ii, The Competitions Review Panel shall convene during the season as necessary. Should a
meeting of the National League Council be called it is mandatory for all senior NBL clubs to attend
(£150 fine for non attendance), the National League Council may convene during each closed
season if deemed necessary by Basketball England.
1.7
The Competitions Review Panel will be comprised of the Convenor Competitions, the National
Leagues Manager and Chief Executive.
The Convenor Competitions and Basketball England (at their discretion) have the power to co-opt
members onto the Competitions Review Panel for a specific term to provide specialist or technical
input.
1.8
In these regulations reference is also made to competitions under the auspices of The Basketball
League Ltd. The use of the term BBL refers to any such competition.
1.9
Any reference in these regulations to the National Basketball League (NBL) automatically also
implies the corresponding Playoff Competition except where otherwise stated.
2
Affiliation and licensing
2.1
All clubs that participate in any of the Competitions must be affiliated to Basketball England. In the
case of any club whose normal home court is situated outside England, then that club shall affiliate
to both Basketball England and also to the appropriate governing body in the country in which its
home court is situated, always provided that the application for affiliation to Basketball England is
endorsed and approved by that governing body.
2.2
All players, coaches, team followers and officials must be licensed both for the relevant competition,
and as an individual participant with Basketball England.
a.
b.
2.3
If Basketball England allows two teams from the same club to participate in the same
league, a player must be licensed for either Team A or Team B. A player can transfer from
Team A to Team B or visa versa by following the normal transfer procedures (See
Regulation 21). A player will only be allowed one inter-club transfer per season. No more
than 4 transfers shall be permitted between the same transferor and transferee (See
Regulation 21.18).
Teams must attend all National League fixtures with a correctly registered, qualified coach.
Failure to do so may result in the game being declared forfeit and the club facing disciplinary
action.
No nursery teams, second team, or club having any official or unofficial obligation to or connection
with another club in the BBL or National Basketball League is permitted to participate in the same
division as its principal team (without the prior approval of Basketball England ) or in the Senior
National Cup Competitions. Where Basketball England deems it to be appropriate, nursery teams
may participate in the National Trophy/Shield Competitions. There are special restrictions on nursery
teams as follows:
(i)
A nursery team is defined as an additional senior team that operates, and is registered with
Basketball England, under the same club management as the parent team (i.e. One club). The
nursery team must also operate within 6 miles of the parent teams’ home court, if utilising an
alternative home court.
No team will be granted nursery team status if they fall outside a club’s jurisdiction.
(ii)
A nursery team may contract players on its behalf, and waive its rights under that contract in
favour of the parent team, provided this is specified in the contract.
(iii)
A nursery team may use the same team-name as its parent team and may use the same home
venue as that of the parent team.
(iv)
a) In the case of a club which is fielding two or more senior teams in any BBL or NBL
Competition (the "Principal" team and a "Nursery" team), all senior players shall be
licensed for one team exclusively, with no movement permitted between the teams except
where a formal transfer occurs (See Regulation 21.18). The Principal team must at all
times field a minimum of 8 players in line with regulation 7.20. In case of failure to do so,
an automatic fine will be imposed (See Regulation 10.17). The team participating in the
highest league competition shall be the "Principal" team, and any other teams shall be a
"Nursery" team".
b) Notwithstanding a), any ‘National’ (See Regulation 8.1) Under 20 player licensed for the
Nursery team, may be listed on the scoresheet for the Principal team during the season,
there is no limit or restriction on the number of games an Under 20 player can play up.
Players licensed for the Principal team are not permitted to play down to the Nursery
team.
c) Any Under 20 player playing up to the Principal team must participate in 50% of regular
season games for the Nursery team in order to qualify for the Nursery team playoff games
and 50% of National Cup/National Trophy/Patrons Cup/National Shield games in order to
qualify for the Nursery team finals.
d) It is intended that Nursery teams should primarily exist to enable young players who are
no longer Under 18, or who are exceptionally talented and therefore unsuited to play in the
Under 18 competitions, to participate at a higher level. Permission for a Nursery team to
participate in the National Basketball League is therefore dependent on the operation of
this philosophy, and Basketball England reserves the right to withdraw permission for a
Nursery team to participate in the competitions if Basketball England is of the opinion that
this philosophy is not being respected.
e) In all other respects in these Regulations a reference to a club shall be considered to
apply equally to a Nursery team, and Nursery teams must conform to these regulations in
the same way as all other clubs, unless there is a specific statement to the contrary. In
particular a Nursery team must always promote its matches, as if they were a standalone
club, to the standards expected by Basketball England.
Any club found to have breached the above may be disqualified from that particular Competition and
may also be fined or have League points deducted.
2.4
All clubs shall register with Basketball England the name of the Company or other legal entity that is
responsible for controlling the affairs of the club, or the names of at least three persons who are
responsible for the management of the club. If the club is under the control of a company of other
legal entity, this company shall register with Basketball England the names of the persons
designated as directors of that company and submit a copy of its memorandum and articles. In the
event of the club not being controlled by a company, the names of the persons responsible for the
management of the club shall be termed the "directors", and these shall be subject to approval by
Basketball England.
2.5
The person responsible for the administration of the club shall be referred to as the "Club Secretary".
The name of the Club Secretary shall be registered with Basketball England. This person may (but
need not necessarily) be a director of the club, and may (but need not necessarily) be the Secretary
of the company controlling the club. In the case of a company, the name of the Company Secretary
shall also be registered with Basketball England. All actions by the Club Secretary are deemed to
carry the full authority of the club unless, and until such time as an action may be countermanded by
a mandate supported by a majority of the directors. A club is deemed to be responsible for actions
by its directors relating to basketball, e.g. public statements, letters to the media, approaches to
players licensed to play for other clubs, etc.
2.6
No person may be added to or deleted from the list of directors of a club, except by a signed
statement by a majority of the other directors, or by a decision of the company, unless they submit a
resignation in writing.
2.7
No person may be a director or a secretary of more than one club at any time, or have a significant
interest in more than one club or have a significant interest in a club and be a director or secretary or
another club, or be a director or secretary or have a significant interest in one club and be a licence
holder for another club, except where the clubs are competing in mutually exclusive competitions, or
in the case of nursery teams (See Regulation 2.3). If a person signs an agreement to be licensed for
another club, this automatically constitutes a statement of resignation as a director, secretary, or
other officer of the first club, except that where the person is registered as a director of a clubcompany, their application to be licensed for another club cannot be approved until such time as they
are officially removed from the list of directors of that company. A "significant interest" is deemed to
be a shareholding of 10% or more in the controlling company. Failure to notify the Association of dual
membership would be referred to the Disciplinary Officer.
2.8
A Club Secretary may only be replaced by a mandate supported by a majority of the directors, unless
they resign, in which case the existing directors shall nominate a new Secretary as soon as possible.
2.9
All communications between a club/team and Basketball England will be conducted through the
Club/Team Secretary. Only the club/team secretary will be acknowledged as the person to
communicate decisions to Basketball England, unless the club have informed Basketball England of
a nominated alternative. Basketball England has to be informed in writing of any permanent or
temporary change to the club/team secretary.
2.10
If a club ceases to exist, or a company controlling a club ceases to trade, whilst a member of the
NBL, or withdraws from the competition without fulfilling all its obligations to Basketball England
and/or to other clubs, all the National competition licences of the club are automatically forfeited to
Basketball England, to be disposed of in whatever way Basketball England deems to be appropriate,
which may include meeting the existing liabilities of the Club to Basketball England, and/or to other
clubs and/or to any other organisation. A licence to participate in national competitions is the
property of Basketball England at all times, and cannot be transferred or disposed of by the club or
the individual in any way, without the prior agreement of Basketball England.
Any team that withdraws from a competition automatically loses their licence to compete, and any
application in future seasons will only be considered for the lowest available division.
2.11
In the case of a club which is also affiliated to a governing body outside England, the Constitution
and Rules and Regulations of Basketball England shall apply to that club in all respects,
notwithstanding that it is also a member of another national association, and the acceptance of that
club in the competitions under the jurisdiction of Basketball England shall be subject to agreement of
this condition by the other national association.
3.
Entry to competitions
3.1
For the season 2014/2015 the entry fees are as follows:
NBL Division One Men (inc. Cup & Trophy where eligible)
NBL Division Two Men (inc. Cup & Patrons Cup where eligible)
NBL Division Three Men (inc. Cup & Shield where eligible)
NBL Division Four Men (inc. Cup & Shield where eligible)
NBL Division One Women / WBBL (as appropriate)
(inc. Cup where eligible)
NBL Division Two Women / Women’s Leagues (as appropriate)
(inc. Cup & Trophy where eligible)
£600
£550
£450
£450
£400
£300
NB: All competition fees, including licence fees, are exempt from VAT
All clubs (including those in membership of BBL/WBBL (as appropriate)) must also pay an annual
club affiliation fee, the 2014/2015 season the fees are:
Senior Club
£50.00
Under 18 Club £35.00
3.2
Applications to enter the NBL must be accompanied with payment of the full entry fee and be
received by Basketball England by 31st March preceding the season in question. The entry fee is
automatically forfeited if the club withdraws their entry. If entry in to any competition is declined the
entry fee will be refunded in full.
3.3
Basketball England reserves the sole right to decide which clubs/teams will be accepted to
participate in the competitions and the division that each team will compete in. (See Regulation 1.6).
3.4
Teams having been accepted into a competition, who subsequently withdraw, will be fined and the
surety fee may be retained by Basketball England in part or in full, in addition to any fine that may be
levied.
Any team that withdraws from a competition automatically loses their licence to compete, and any
application in future seasons will only be considered for the lowest available division.
3.5
A surety fee as indicated below must be placed on deposit with Basketball England by the 1 June
preceding the season in question. If a club's surety deposit falls below 50% of the stipulated figure
during the course of a season, it must be made up to the full total before their next match is played.
st
The surety fees for clubs are as follows:
NBL Division One Men
NBL Division Two Men
NBL Division Three Men
NBL Division Four Men
NBL Division One Women / WBBL (as appropriate)
NBL Division Two Women / Women’s Leagues (as appropriate)
£770
£770
£630
£630
£530
£300
Where a club has two or more teams competing in the NBL it shall pay an additional surety fee of
£200 for each of its 'second' teams over and above the single surety fee it has lodged. The single
surety fee will always be paid at the highest level as indicated above.
Where a club has surety fee in credit at the end of the season and intends to participate in the NBL
in the following season, the surety fee will be retained by Basketball England throughout the close
season period.
st
If a team withdraws after 1 June preceding the season in question the surety fee maybe retained by
Basketball England in part or in full, in addition to any fines that may be levied.
3.6
Entry to the Senior NBL also implies automatic entry into cup competitions (if the club is eligible),
unless the club expressly indicates its wish not to participate in these Cup competitions, prior to
March 31st preceding the season in question. Except D1 Men & Women and D2 Men where
participation in all Cup Competitions is mandatory. Clubs not having applied for entry to the NBL may
enter the Men’s National Shield and Women’s National Trophy competitions by making an
st
application to arrive by 31 March preceding the season in question; an entry fee of £50.00 must
accompany such applications.
3.7
Basketball England reserves the right to refuse an application from a club or team to participate in a
national competition.
3.8
Clubs in membership of The Basketball League, and affiliated to Basketball England, are permitted
st
to enter the National Cup competition this entry must be received by 31 March.
3.9
A club which is entered in a competition, including automatic entry, is required to participate in the
competition to the best of its ability otherwise it may be subject to disciplinary action. All clubs
competing in NBL competitions agree to give priority to these competitions above all other. In the
event of a clash the NBL fixture should take priority unless otherwise agreed with Basketball
England.
3.10
All team names are subject to final approval by Basketball England. All team names must include a
specific geographical location (the city or town where the team / venue is based). A nickname can
also be included (Rockets, Magic etc). Any sponsor names are also subject to approval by
Basketball England. Only the approved geographical location and nickname will be used in
Basketball England s official schedules, but this will not prevent the usage of sponsor names in
game publicity etc.
4.
Match officials
4.1
Match Officials shall include Commissioners, Referees and Table Officials. All match officials
operating in National Basketball League and Cup Competitions must be licensed with Basketball
England .i.e. paying the relevant membership and Competition Fee.
4.2
A Referee and Umpire will normally be appointed by Basketball England for each match. They
should be paid match fees and expenses prior to the game as appropriate by the home club, in
accordance with the current rates (See Regulation 20). The match fees shall always be paid in cash.
4.3
Basketball England at its discretion will nominate Commissioners for regular season fixtures and
only for specific reasons, where it deems appropriate. If a Commissioner is to be nominated the
home club will be informed and shall pay the Commissioners match fee and expenses. The visiting
team may exercise its right to nominate a representative to be seated at the Scorer's table with the
agreement of the match referee. If a Commissioner is not nominated, the referee shall be
responsible for such duties of the Commissioner as they may be capable of performing, including
items 7.8, 7.9, 7.13, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4, 14.2, 14.6 and 14.10. Basketball England may, however,
nominate Commissioners for all rounds of the playoffs and finals, including quarter-finals and semifinals.
4.4
Table Officials shall be provided by the home club; they should be neutral officials and not
associated with the home club where possible. It is the responsibility of the home club to pay these
officials expenses in accordance with the current rates of Basketball England (See Regulation 20.1).
All table officials must wear the approved Basketball England uniform.
The table below shows the number of table officials, at each level, that should be appointed to each
league and or playoff game. In any cup competition, the appointment of table officials should be
commensurate with the division the home team competes in.
NBL Division One Men
NBL Division Two Men
NBL Division Three Men
NBL Division Four Men
NBL Division One Women / WBBL (as appropriate)
NBL Division Two Women / Women’s Leagues (as appropriate)
Level 3
3
2
1
1
2
1
Level 2
0
1
2
2
1
2
4.5
Clubs may submit reports on the handling of the game by Referees and Umpires. Any such reports
should be received within 48 hours and the report will be held to be the considered view of the
directors of the club.
4.6
Match officials must wear the current Basketball England Officiating uniform for all NBL / National
Competitions.
4.7
Match Officials are not permitted to make comment to representatives of the media; on any public
websites including any electronic format over any incidents that may have occurred during matches
in which they officiate. Officials who transgress this regulation will be referred to Disciplinary
Officer/Convenor Officiating under regulation 10.23.
4.8
In accordance with the rules of the game, all match officials must ensure they are present at the
venue 1 hour prior to tip off and ensure they are present on the playing court 20 minutes prior to the
scheduled tip off time. If a referee is not present on the playing court 20 minutes prior to the
scheduled tip off time without prior communication as to the reason for the delay (travel
delay/unforeseen circumstances), the club are only liable to pay 50% of the match fee.
5.
Team uniforms
5.1
Team uniforms must adhere to the official rules of basketball.
The uniform of the team members shall consist of shorts of the same dominant colour front and
back, but not necessarily of the same colour as the shirts. The shorts must end above the knee.
Each team member shall wear a shirt numbered on the front and back with plain numbers, of a solid
colour contrasting with the colour of the shirt. The numbers shall be clearly visible and teams shall
use numbers 0 and 00 and from 1 to 99.
5.2
In the event of a known colour clash, the Away Team shall change to colours that provide a suitable
contrast to those worn by the home team. Should a colour clash become evident at the venue or
during the pre-game meeting the home team shall change to a colour providing a suitable contrast to
that of the visiting team (See Regulation 5.4).
5.3
Referees shall not permit players, whose attire does not meet the required standard (See Regulation
5.1), to participate in the game. Undershirts are not permitted to be worn under playing vests. All
players shall be required to wear their playing vests tucked into their shorts.
EXCEPTION – If a medical certificate is provided a player may wear an undershirt. The club/player
will be provided with an exemption letter from Basketball England which must be presented at each
fixture.
5.4
Each club is required to register with Basketball England details of its first choice colours (vests and
shorts). The home club must always wear their complete registered colours. It is the responsibility of
the visiting team to ensure that their uniforms contrast sufficiently with those worn by the home team,
and in any case of doubt, it is recommended that the home team have two alternative uniforms
available. It is also recommended that the home club also ensures that a set of uniforms, dissimilar
from their first choice colours, are available at the venue, for use by them in case of an unavoidable
colour clash.
5.5
After 31st August, no club may change its registered first choice of colours, except with the special
agreement of Basketball England.
5.6
For matches played on neutral courts, or promoted by Basketball England including cup and Final
ties Basketball England will decide which colours are to be worn by each team.
6.
Format of competitions and fixtures
6.1
The following are defined, as "National Competitions" and the following codes will be used to
designate fixtures:
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)
(E)
(F)
(G)
(H)
(J)
(K)
(L)
(M)
(N)
(P)
(Q)
(R)
(S)
(T)
(U)
(V)
(W)
(X)
(Y)
(FC)
NBL Division One Men including Playoffs
NBL Division Two Men including Playoffs
NBL Division Three Men including Playoffs
NBL Division Four Men including Playoffs
NBL Division One Women including Playoffs / WBBL (as appropriate)
NBL Division Two Women including Playoffs / Women’s Leagues (as appropriate)
National Cup Men
National Cup Women
Patrons Cup
NBL Shield
Men’s National Trophy
Women’s National Trophy
Under 18 Men’s National Cup
Under 18 Women’s National Cup
Under 16 Men’s National Cup
Under 16 Women’s National Cup
Under 18 Men's League
Under 18 Women’s League
Under 16 Boys League
Under 16 Girls League
Under 15 Boys Leagues
Under 14 Boys & Girls Leagues
Under 13 Boys Leagues
National Founders Cup
6.2
In all divisions, all clubs play each other for a scheduled number of games home and away to
determine the League Champions. The positions shall be determined by awarding two points for a
win and zero for a loss in senior leagues and by awarding three points for a win and one point for a
loss in all age group competitions, zero points are awarded for a match lost by default or forfeit. In
the event of a match lost by default or forfeit, Basketball England may also deduct a number of
points as it considers to be appropriate.
6.3
In the event of a tie in league points at the end of the season, this shall be resolved as follows:
(i) If there are two teams involved in this classification, the result(s) of the game(s) between the
two teams involved will be used to determine the placings.
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
(vii)
(viii)
In the event that the total points scored and conceded are the same in the games between the
two teams, the classification will be determined by goal difference taking into account the
results of all the games played in the league by both teams.
If more than two teams are equal in the placings, a second classification will be established
taking into account only the results of the games between the teams that are tied.
In the event that there are still teams tied after the second classification, then goal difference
will be used to determine the placings, taking into account only the results of the games
between the teams still tied.
If there are still teams tied, the placings will be determined using goal difference from the
results of all their games played in the league.
If at any stage using the above criteria, a multiple tie is reduced to a tie involving only two
teams, the procedure in (i) and (ii) will be applied.
If it is reduced to a tie still involving more than two teams, the procedure beginning with (iii) is
repeated.
Goal difference will always be calculated by subtracting points against/conceded from points
for/scored.
Basketball England may, in exceptional circumstances, declare a match to be void and award each
team such points as it deems appropriate. If a team fails to fulfil 90% of its scheduled league fixtures
in a season, its league record may be expunged in its entirety after consideration by the
Competitions Review Panel. Such failure may be penalised by automatic forfeiture of its licence (See
Regulation 22), together with other actions as Basketball England deem appropriate.
6.4
The National Cup (Men) will be played as follows:
(a) First Round: This will involve sufficient teams to provide 32 teams in Second Round this round
may also give a number of teams a bye.
(b) Second Round: This will involve 32 teams.
(c) Third Round: This will involve the sixteen winners from the Second Round matches.
(d) Quarter Finals: This will involve the eight winners from the Third Round matches.
(e) Semi Finals: This will involve the four winning teams from the Quarter Final Round.
(f) Final: This will involve the winners of the Semi- Finals, and will be played on a single leg basis
at a neutral venue arranged by Basketball England.
Basketball England will conduct the draw for each competition which may include geographical
organisation and seeding in the rounds prior to the quarter finals.
6.5
The National Cup (Women) will be played as follows:
(a) First Round: This will involve sufficient teams to provide 16 teams in Second Round.
(b) Second Round: This will involve sixteen teams.
(c) Quarter Finals: This will involve the eight winning teams from the Second Round.
(d) Semi Finals: This will involve the four winning teams from the Quarter Final Round.
(e) Final: This will involve the winners of the Semi-Finals, and will be played on a single leg basis
at a neutral venue arranged by Basketball England.
Basketball England will conduct the draw for each competition which may include geographical
organisation and seeding in the rounds prior to the quarter finals.
6.6
National Trophy/Patrons Cup/Shield competitions for Men will be held for clubs in the National
Basketball League (Men). A Trophy competition will take place involving all those teams in the NBL
Division One Men. Matches will be played on pool basis in the first round followed by a knockout
format. The Patrons Cup competition will take place involving all those teams in the NBL Division
Two Men. Matches will be played on a pool basis in the first round followed by a knockout format. A
separate Competition, the NBL Shield, will be played involving all the teams in NBL Division Three
and Four. All games to be played on a single leg knock out basis. In the 3 competitions, all matches
will be played on the home court of one of the competing teams except where Basketball England
arranges for the final to take place on a neutral court.
6.7
A National Trophy competition for Women will be held for clubs in the NBL Division Two Women /
Women’s Leagues (as appropriate) and non-League clubs. All matches will be played on the home
court of one of the competing teams except where Basketball England arranges for the final to take
st
place on a neutral court. The closing date for entry into the Women’s National Trophy is 31 March
preceding the season in question.
6.8
Playoff Competitions for the Men's and Women’s NBL will take place at the completion of the league
season usually involving the eight highest placed teams in each division. Playoff formats will be
published prior to the completion of the league season.
6.9
In the case of two-leg matches, the following special rules will apply:
(i)
At the end of the first leg, no overtime period will be played even if the teams are equal on
points.
(ii)
At the end of the second leg overtime will be played if the teams are equal on aggregate, but
not if they are equal in terms of points scored in that leg.
(iii)
The team scoring the greater number of points on aggregate over the two legs shall be the
winner.
6.10
Matches shall normally be played on Saturday or Sunday. They may, however, be played on other
days as Basketball England may from time to time stipulate, or by mutual agreement, and with the
permission of Basketball England. All matches shall take place at the following times, unless special
authorisation has been given.
Men/Women
Youth Leagues
Saturday
2.00 - 8.00pm
12.00 - 6.00pm
Sunday
1.00 - 5.00pm
12.00 - 5.00pm
Weekdays
7.30 / 8.00pm
by mutual agreement
In the case of triple header games, earlier start times may apply.
Normally no team shall be required to undertake a weekend fixture that does not enable its players
to arrive back at their home base/meeting point by:
1. Midnight on Sunday, unless otherwise agreed, for Senior teams
2. 10 pm on a Saturday night and 9pm on a Sunday, unless otherwise agreed, for
Under 18 teams.
No other days and times will normally be permitted except in the case of televised matches.
The home team must confirm all details with the visiting teams at least two weeks before the fixture.
6.11
Basketball England will prepare a fixture list prior to the start of the season. In exceptional
circumstances, Basketball England may require a fixture to be rearranged. Where a club is required
by Basketball England to play a Semi Final or Final match within thirty-six hours of a scheduled
League match, then the club so affected may request and Basketball England will normally approve
the request that the League match be rearranged. Application for rearrangement must be submitted
within 48 hours of the definitive fixture becoming known to the club seeking the rearrangement. A
rearrangement will only be approved for games taking place before a fixture not for those scheduled
after. i.e. if a cup fixture takes place on a Sunday the Saturday game can be rescheduled however if
the cup game is on the Saturday the Sunday fixture cannot be rescheduled.
Where a club is required by Basketball England to play a Final match, the club may request that all
other club matches that day be rearranged; Basketball England will normally approve the request as
long as such a request is submitted within 48 hours of the club being confirmed in the Final.
6.12
No changes are permitted in respect of the fixture list, except that:
i.
Prior to 31st August, whenever two clubs reach agreement regarding the rearrangements of a
fixture, they may jointly make application in writing to Basketball England, using the appropriate
form, for the matter to be considered.
ii. After 31st August, the request to change any fixture from its published date and time will only be
considered in exceptional circumstances. In such cases, where a change is approved, the club
responsible for the change will automatically incur an administrative charge of £25.00 for all
senior and age group fixtures.
6.13
In the case of a late fixture re-arrangement as in 6.12 (ii) above, the home club shall be responsible
for notifying the match officials of the change. Failure to notify the officials of any change, and the
match official(s) arrive at the venue, will mean the club are responsible for paying the travel
expenses of the match official(s).
6.14
Whenever two clubs fail to reach agreement as to when a match shall take place, within fourteen
days of the date of the original fixture postponement, Basketball England shall specify the date and
time of the match and apply the relevant fixture change fee (See Regulation 6.12) to the team
responsible for the postponement.
6.15
When a scheduled match is forfeited an automatic fine will be imposed, additionally the Competitions
Review Panel may consider the matter and increase the fine up to a maximum listed below:
st
Senior Competitions
Under 18 Competitions
1 Offence
Automatic £150
Automatic £100
Subsequent Offences
Automatic £300
Automatic £200
Maximum £500
Maximum £500
A team shall lose the game by forfeit if:
1. Fifteen (15) minutes after the scheduled starting time, the team is not present or is unable to
field five (5) players ready to play. Except where by agreement of all parties a game tips off
late (usually due to travel delays). If a late tip off results in the home team being charged for
additional court hire, the team causing the delay in tip off will be liable to reimburse the home
team for the additional court hire. Proof of additional court hire in the form of an official
invoice from the home teams’ venue will be required before monies are levied.
2. Its actions prevent the game from being played.
3. It refuses to play after being instructed to do so by the referee.
When a club is responsible for the postponement of a scheduled match (72 hours prior to the tip off)
or does not fulfil a fixture, without the consent of its opponents, the Competitions Review Panel may
consider this matter and may issue a fine no greater than the maximum levels listed above. In
addition the game in question will be awarded to the non-offending team 20 – 0 and league points
may be deducted.
The offending club will also be liable to pay compensation to the other club. The amount of
compensation will be determined by Competitions Review Panel following the receipt of written
submissions and evidence of costs from both clubs within 7 days of the date of the scheduled fixture.
The maximum compensation claim must not exceed £250.
If games are postponed for other reasons, e.g. Cup commitments, a new date for the match must be
confirmed with Basketball England no later than fourteen days after the postponement.
When a club is responsible for the postponement of a scheduled match (up to 24 hours prior to the
tip off) due to venue owners cancelling the court booking, the game must be rescheduled within
fourteen days of the postponement. Confirmation from the venue that the original booking was
cancelled by the venue owners must be provided. Failure to provide confirmation from the venue
owners will result in consideration of the matter by the Competitions Review Panel, which may result
in the game being awarded to the opposition.
In the event of postponements due to severe weather conditions or unforeseen road delays the
following regulations will apply:
(i) The travelling expenses (if applicable) of all the Match Officials will be paid by the home team.
Any dispute over the team responsible for the postponement and subsequently any costs will be
resolved by Basketball England within 7 days, these expenses may then be reimbursed.
(ii) The cost of court hire will lie with the team responsible for the postponement if the match is rearranged for a later date. In the case of a forfeit the home club is not entitled to claim for court
hire costs but may make a compensation claim as in 6.15 above.
(iii) The responsibility for notifying match officials of a postponement rests with the home club.
(iv) Should, for any reason, a match be abandoned, the matter will be referred to The Competitions
Review Panel to adjudicate.
6.16
Any club which, without just cause, fails to fulfil a League or Cup fixture on the appointed date shall
be liable to forfeit league points and or to expulsion from the competition. It may also be liable to pay
a fine and/or compensation to Basketball England and/or other clubs which may have been affected
(See Regulation 6.13).
Any League fixture not fulfilled within the regular season i.e. before the playoffs commence, will be
declared void and the club responsible for the original postponement will be liable to a fine for non
fulfilment of the said fixture.
Any claim for an outstanding/postponed game must be received by Basketball England 14 days prior
st
to the 1 playoff game, in order that full consideration of the claim can be made before confirming
final league positions and playoff places.
6.17
In the case of abandoned games, the following will apply:
i. In National Basketball League competitions the Competitions Review Panel shall reach a
decision on the game based on the special circumstances surrounding each case.
ii. In all other competitions the game in question shall be replayed on a date to be determined by
Basketball England who will also determine those players eligible to participate in the replayed
game.
Only personnel listed on the original scoresheet are eligible to play in any replay.
6.18
The visiting team is responsible for its own expenses in all competitions except where stated.
6.19
During the period from the conclusion of the competition to 31st August, and also on the occasion of
matches in the European Championships and selection for the England National Team takes priority
over all club commitments (see Regulations of Basketball England, nos. 4 & 5
Any National League team (Senior or Junior) with 2 or more National Team players in their squad,
has the right to request a fixture change to avoid clashes with National Team training camps or
matches. This fixture change must be agreed (by the requesting teams scheduled opposition);
however the request to do so must be made no less than 14 days prior to the scheduled fixture.
7.
During the event
7.1
The home club shall nominate a Promoter (Court Manager) for each match. The Promoter shall be
responsible for all aspects of the event except the playing of the match, and must not be involved in
the match in any other official capacity. Match officials may advise on court layout but responsibility
and accountability remain with the promoter.
7.2
Each club shall nominate a Representative to represent their interests at any time during the event.
This Representative may not be a game official or the Promoter, but may be a member of the team.
7.3
The Game Officials (Commissioner, Referee and Umpire), the Promoter and the nominated
Representatives, and at least five playing members of each team, are required to be present at the
venue at least one hour prior to the scheduled starting time. The Commissioner or in the absence of
a Commissioner then the Promoter or Referee will assume control, and conduct a pre-game meeting
of the Officials, Promoter and Representatives, one hour prior to the scheduled starting time. The
participants at this meeting should assemble at or near the scorer's table. If the Commissioner is
officiating at two consecutive matches on the same day, the pre-game meeting for the second match
should take place during the half-time interval of the first game. Teams and officials must provide the
table officials with the licence cards at this time. Licence cards are required for all participants and a
full team list is required at this time. Licence cards cannot be shown on an electronic device such as
a smart-phone or camera.
Failure to attend the pre-game meeting and/or not having the requisite number of players at the
venue as described above will result in an automatic fine being imposed. (See Regulation 10.17)
7.4
For all games, the first team named in the programme (home team) shall have the team bench and
its team’s own basket on the left side of the scorer’s table, facing the playing court.
However, if the two teams agree, they may interchange the team benches and/or baskets. Before
st
rd
the 1 and 3 quarters and each extra period, a team shall have the exclusive right to practice in that
half of the court into which it will be attacking in the forthcoming period.
7.5
Prior to the start of the match the visiting team shall be permitted a minimum of 15 minutes actual
warm-up time. Each team shall be responsible for providing its own practice balls. The referee
should ensure that the match ball is approved at least 20 minutes prior to the scheduled starting time
for the match. In the event that a team arrives late less than 15 minutes after the scheduled tip off
time the referee in consultation with the team representatives will decide what time the game will
start. A team arriving on the playing court up to 15 minutes after the scheduled starting time will be
fined in accordance with regulation 10.17 (n).
7.6
Any action during the warm-up period of a match (pre-game, half-time, or during any interval of play),
which is liable to damage equipment, is strictly prohibited. Any player who disregards this regulation
after a warning from any of the match officials (Commissioner, Referee or representative of
Basketball England ) will automatically be fined £100 by Basketball England.
7.7
All Basketball England National Competitions matches for the 2014/2015 season shall be played
with the official Spalding approved ball of Basketball England. The following balls must be used:
Spalding - TF1000
Size 7 Official ball for Senior Men
Size 6 Official ball for Senior Women
Spalding - TF500
Size 7 Official ball for U18 Men
Size 6 Official ball for U18 Women
Spalding - TF250
Size 7 Official ball for U16 Boys and U15 Boys
Size 6 Official ball for U16 Girls, U14 Boys & U13 Boys
Size 5 Official ball for U14 Girls
7.8
The Commissioner, after consultation with the Referee, the Promoter and the Club Representatives
where appropriate, shall make decisions regarding all aspects of the game not covered by the rules
of Basketball.
7.9
It is the intention of Basketball England that wherever possible a match should take place, and
officials are requested to keep this in mind when making decisions. When they consider it to be
appropriate, the Commissioner (or referee where a commissioner is not present) in consultation with
the promoter may amend the designated starting time for the match.
7.10
During the game, the only persons permitted to sit on a team bench are the Coach, Assistant Coach,
the (12) players, and a maximum of 5 licensed Team Followers with special responsibilities, i.e. 19
persons in total. Young children are not permitted to sit on the bench or permitted to be located in
the playing area of the court and Commissioners (or referees where a commissioner is not present)
are asked to monitor this and report such breaches of this regulation in their match reports.
Automatic fines will be imposed.
7.11
During a game, the referee must order any player who is bleeding, or has an open wound, to leave
the playing area. The player may return to the court only after the bleeding has stopped and the area
affected, or the open wound, has been completely and securely covered.
7.12
All matches shall be played in accordance with these regulations and the FIBA rules of play as
interpreted by Basketball England
7.13
Where an announcer carries out a form of commentary during the course of a match, they shall not
criticise or make adverse comments regarding the opposition or supply technical information other
than objective statistics, and shall not make statements of opinion regarding the quality of decisions
made by the match officials. The Commissioner or referee may, if they consider it to be appropriate,
instruct the Promoter that the commentary shall be modified or terminated forthwith.
7.14
The use of artificial sounding devices (e.g. Whistles and Air Horns) by supporters at matches should
be discouraged, and match officials are authorised to prohibit the use of such devices where these
may be seen to be affecting the proper control of the match. Musical instruments, e.g. a drum or
electronic organs, are permitted to be used during matches by match day promoters, however under
no circumstances can they be played during free throws. This does not affect the use of such
devices by any supporter as a member of the crowd. Music played over the public announcement
system is not permitted when the ball is in play.
7.15
Clubs are required to take all reasonable precautions to safeguard the match officials, the
opponents, and their officials, and all other third parties against deleterious action by their players,
officials and supporters.
7.16
The white copy of the official scoresheet, the official statistics form (Division One and Division Two
Men only) and the official match programme (Division One and Division Two Men only) shall be
forwarded by 1st class mail by the home club to the Headquarters of Basketball England within 48
hours of the match. In case of failure to do so, an automatic fine will be imposed (See Regulation
10.17). When FIBA LiveStats software has been used, the game file must be forwarded to
Basketball England within 48 hours; all other required information must still be forwarded by 1st
class mail by the home club to the Headquarters of Basketball England
1. For all home games the provision of live statistics (on the internet) using the FIBA LiveStats
software is mandatory for all Division One and Division Two Men’s teams.
Once the referees sign the scoresheet, the Commissioner or Senior Official will pass all three sheets
to the club organiser, who will be responsible for their distribution. In the absence of a
Commissioner, the scorekeeper will pass the sheets to the club organiser. In the absence of a
Commissioner the home promoter is responsible for ensuring that the scorer can gain the referees
signatures immediately at the end of the game.
7.17
The Promoter shall be responsible for notifying the result of the match (and the compulsory statistical
information as requested by Basketball England) as the match ends. In all cases this should be done
by telephone to the Headquarters of Basketball England (0114 2444 888) within 15 minute of the
game finishing. In the case of failure to do so, an automatic fine will be imposed (See Regulation
10.17).
7.18
It is mandatory that the home club provide suitable refreshments for the visiting team and the match
officials at the following games, failure to do so will result in an automatic fine.
Division One Men including National Trophy
Division One Women / WBBL (as appropriate)
Division Two Men including Patrons Cup
All Senior Cup and Playoff games from Quarter Final onwards
All Youth (Under 18 and below) Cup and Playoff games from Quarter Final onwards
7.19
All players and coaches that take part in a match shall be required to be available for interview by
the Press, Television and Radio for 30 minutes from the end of the match, as directed by Basketball
England. No fees shall be payable in respect of any such interview. Any person who is not available
for interview, or refuses to be interviewed, shall be considered to be guilty of misconduct, and shall
be subject to disciplinary action under 10.1.
7.20
In all National Competition matches administered by Basketball England, a team must have a
minimum of 8 players ready to play at the scheduled jump-ball time. In case of failure to do so, an
automatic fine will be imposed (See Regulation 10.17).
All players listed on the scoresheet at the start of the game must be present at the end of the game
(unless disqualified or taken to hospital etc). Players must not leave midway through the match to
attend another match.
7.21
Clubs are instructed to keep all spectators off the playing floor in the 30-minute period before the
match and during quarter, half time & three-quarter time. The exception to this is organised club
competitions e.g. ‘shoot outs’ Automatic fines of £25 will be imposed for a breach of this regulation.
8.
National status, player eligibility, domicile and issue of licences
8.1
Definitions:
Player Categories
(1) ‘National'
(2) ‘EU’
(3) ‘Non National'
A person eligible to play for Great Britain in accordance with the regulations
of FIBA.
A person that holds British Citizenship.
A person from an EU Member State or one from one of the Non-EU
Members of the European Economic Area or a Swiss national.
A person who does not qualify under (1) or (2) above.
NB: For FIBA purposes, a Non-National player is defined as a player who does not have the English
Basketball Nationality
General Limitations:
(i)
The number of players from each category will be as follows:
National
Any number
EU
Any number
Non-National
One
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
In NBL Division One Men and WBBL, for any match in the League and the Men’s National
Trophy, a club shall register on the scoresheet a maximum of 2 Non National players.
In the National Cup Competitions, Men and Women, the regulations for NBL apply
respectively.
In the National Trophy/Shield Competitions, Men and Women, the player eligibility
regulations are as for the appropriate Division.
All Non-National players must have a valid contract of employment as a basketball player
with their club in order to be classified in the appropriate category. Clubs are reminded that
they are responsible for the operation of PAYE & NI requirements for all employees and the
Association may require documentary evidence to verify that where such a contract of
employment exists, the due statutory procedures are being followed.
For FIBA licensing purposes, an EU player still counts as a Non-National player, and
therefore the appropriate FIBA registration and licence fees are payable (See Regulation
16.4). In addition, all regulations regarding International Clearance will also apply to National,
Non-National and EU players.
8.2
In cases of doubt regarding national status a person shall be required to declare and produce any
current full passports or other documentary evidence as the Association may require.
8.3
After a person has been licensed for a particular season they cannot apply to alter their national
status during the course of that season.
8.4
During the course of the season, clubs in the NBL Division One and Two Men may licence a
maximum of 4 Non-National players and clubs in the NBL Division Three and Four Men and NBL
Women's Divisions may licence a maximum of 3 `Non-National' players. The requirement of 8.1 must
be satisfied and a licence must be cancelled before an alternative licence may be issued. Where a
licence is cancelled by virtue of the application of this regulation, the player shall become a free
agent, unless they currently hold a contract of the standard form which has been deposited with and
approved by the Association, and continues to be honoured by the club. Rotation of Non-National
players can take place as long as a team does not play over the quota allowed in any one game.
8.5
A club is permitted to licence a maximum of one Non-National coach per team. In the case of a team
having a Non-National coach it is mandatory that they also have a National' Assistant Coach.
8.6
Licences can only be issued for players domiciled in the UK. Whenever a person holding a senior
competitions licence is absent from England for a continuous period in excess of 30 days during the
period 1st September - 31st March, their licence is automatically suspended, and cannot be reestablished until after the forthcoming 31st May.
For a licence application to be considered the player must be present in the UK at the time of
application, applications will not be considered or approved for people who remain overseas and
intend to enter the UK at a later date.
8.7
A player who was previously registered in any other country is not permitted to play in any national
competition until clearance has been received from that country in accordance with the regulations of
FIBA.
8.8
The regulations of FIBA prohibit players being registered until they are domiciled in the UK, in
accordance with the FIBA definition. It is permissible for a club to make an agreement with a person,
prior to his or her arrival in England, so as to secure exclusive rights for their services. In return, the
club must ensure that the person is given the opportunity to regularly represent the club in national
competitions. The Association shall have the sole right to interpret any such agreement to enforce or
annul it at its sole discretion.
8.9
In the event of an application for a new licence, transfer or renewal being received by The
Association prior to the person concerned being domiciled in the UK and in accordance with the
FIBA definition it shall be held by The Association pending the arrival in England of the person
concerned, at which time The Association will decide whether a valid licence should be issued.
8.10.
In the case of a club whose home court is situated outside England, the country of domicile may be
the country in which the home court is situated.
8.11
A person's domicile is the country, which they regard as their natural home. It is the place of abode
to which they intend to return in the event of their going abroad. For most people it is their country of
birth. Everyone has one domicile only. Unlike dual nationality, it is not possible to have two domiciles
under English law. There are three main categories of domicile:(a)
Domicile of origin
(b)
Domicile of choice
(c)
Domicile of dependency
8.12
Where a person holds two or more legal nationalities, his/her eligibility to play in the national
competitions (as defined in the regulations) shall be determined by the above (8.1). Should it be
determined that he/she is eligible to play as a National player, he/she shall declare (if eligible) in
writing before he/she is registered for the National Competition that if summoned to represent the
relevant National team for Great Britain, England, Scotland or Wales, he/she will play for that team.
8.13
The Association in its absolute discretion may refuse to issue a licence a player, coach, official or
team follower. Any such refusal shall be subject to the Association’s appeals procedure.
8.14
Asylum seekers and refugees may be licensed as Nationals if the player has been granted asylum or
refugee status. This will be at the discretion of Basketball England and considered on an annual
basis.
9.
Facilities
9.1
Courts are subject to approval by Basketball England, and must have suitable accommodation for
spectators in line with the Basketball England Standards document. Each club shall register its
playing court with Basketball England, and no club shall play a home match on any other court,
without the prior written approval of Basketball England. If a club wishes to change its permanent
home court, it must make application to Basketball England for permission. (See Regulation 23)
9.2
The home team must provide a match programme in line with the Basketball England Standards
document. A club shall submit a copy of each home match programme to Basketball England in
accordance with 7.16. In case of failure to do so, an automatic fine will apply (See Regulation 10.17).
Furthermore clubs are expected to provide their opponents with comprehensive team lists at least
seven days prior to their meeting.
9.3
An electronic scoreboard and game clock which can be read by players, officials and spectators
throughout the course of the game must be provided. The clock must at least show the passing of
time in minutes. In the event of a game clock being of such construction that it is not possible for
both teams to have an equally good view of it, this fact must be made known at the pre-game
meeting.
9.4
For all matches in the Senior National Basketball League a suitable 24-second device and operator
(licensed Table Official at the required level) must be provided for the administration of the 24seconds rule. Failure to do so will result in an automatic fine being imposed (See Regulation 10.17).
For matches in the Men's and Women’s League and Cup the device must be of the digital
countdown variety.
9.5
The home club should arrange for the display of the team names and must also arrange for the
display of such material relating to the competition (e.g. sponsor's name), as Basketball England
may from time to time decide. Failure to do so may lead to a fine imposed as specified in 10.17.
9.6
The home club is responsible for providing suitable first aid equipment at the venue.
9.7
The home club is responsible for providing a level of stewarding suitable for both spectator control
and for match officials. In case of failure to do so, an automatic fine will be imposed (See Regulation
10.17).
9.8
To prevent possible damage to Backboards and Rings it is mandatory that pressure-release rings be
used for all matches. It is also mandatory that suitable padding is fixed to the backboard edges in all
the senior Games.
9.9
Each club is required to make available 15 seats, in the prime viewing position, for the following:
Officers of Basketball England and their Guests
Directors of Visiting Teams and their Guests
A Guest of the Commissioner, Referees and Table Officials
Basketball England Assessors
9.10
5
4
6
2
These seats may be reallocated if they have not been taken up 30 minutes prior to the scheduled
starting time, except where the club has been given prior notification.
The following shall be the entitlement to complimentary tickets:
To all Basketball Matches played in England under the jurisdiction of Basketball England :
Honorary Officers
Members of Executive Board
Regional Representatives
Staff of Basketball England
National Team Coaches and Managers
Match Officials appointed by Basketball England
1
1 and Guest
1
1 and Guest
1
Guest
To all Matches Promoted by Basketball England :
Honorary Officers
Members of Executive Board
Regional Representatives
Staff of Basketball England
Match Officials
1 and Guest
1 and Guest
1
1 and Guest
Guest
Holders of the F.I.B.A. referees licence shall receive the due entitlement to free access as specified
in the F.I.B.A. Regulations viz. The licence shall grant the right to enter, free of charge, on all
basketball courts for international events with the exception of the Olympic Tournaments. However,
free tickets have to be requested in due time from the organisers.
9.11
Attendance at Events
(a) Members of the Executive Board should at all times be entitled to reserved seats and invitations
to receptions at events organised by Basketball England.
(b) Where an Executive member is requested by Basketball England to attend an event to
undertake a specific duty, he should receive expenses at the Executive rate.
(c) At promotions undertaken by Basketball England any member of the Executive Board acting as
a Commissioner should receive expenses at the Executive rate, but should not receive any
match fee(s).
(d) At the Senior National Cup Final, Executive members should be entitled to attend and receive
expenses at the standard (non-Executive) rate, except where their attendance is required for
specific purposes. Overnight stay should not normally be payable, except where unavoidable
due to extreme distance or specific responsibilities throughout the event.
10
Disciplinary action
10.1
Disciplinary matters related to misconduct by Players, Coaches, Match Officials (including Table
Officials), Team Followers, Club Directors and other Club Officials or its members, occurring during
or immediately prior to, or following matches in any national competition (including friendly /
tournament matches) will be considered by the Disciplinary Officer (See Regulation 1.3). The
Disciplinary Officer shall also be responsible for dealing with all other matters pertaining to
misconduct within the sport. In the text that follows, all references to `Basketball England ' shall be
considered to mean the Disciplinary Officer, as appropriate.
10.2
In special cases, as determined by the Disciplinary Officer, a special Commission, comprising three
persons, shall be formed to consider a particular matter.
10.3
Clubs, players, coaches, match officials (including table officials), team followers, club directors and
other club officials or its members may be fined and/or suspended for any matter as decided by
Basketball England. A fine up to £10,000 may be imposed for any single offence. Instead of, or in
addition to, fines and/or suspensions, Basketball England may take such action in respect of the
outcome of a game (e.g. order replay, deduct points, declare void, etc.) as it sees fit. Basketball
England has recommended guidelines for offences committed these will be circulated to all clubs in
advance of the season. The suggested penalties are guidelines only and the imposition of such
penalty is at the discretion of the Disciplinary Officer and is dependant on the circumstances on each
offence.
10.4
Basketball England may take disciplinary action in respect of any matter in respect of these
regulations that it considers to be liable to bring disrepute to the sport. Action at the venue before,
during or after a match by any player, coach, match official (including table officials), team follower,
club director and other club officials or its members, will be referred to the Disciplinary Officer under
their normal powers, (10.1). The Disciplinary Officer may also co-opt as his ‘assistant’ any special
technical advisor where appropriate in order to assist him reaching his decision. The Disciplinary
Officer shall at all times determine what evidence is admissible and what is not.
10.5
Any club/individual may appeal against a decision of the Disciplinary Officer or Officer of Basketball
England by depositing their appeal with Basketball England in accordance with regulation 1.4.
10.6
In the event of a player, coach, substitute, or team follower being disqualified or expelled from a
match, the matter will automatically be considered by Basketball England ’s Disciplinary Officer.
a) Each match official is required to submit a written report on the matter, to the National Leagues
Department, within 48 hours of the match finishing.
b) Where a player / coach / team follower has been disqualified and a video tape of the game is
available this must be submitted to the National Leagues Department within 72 hours.
c) Each club and any individual may also submit written reports if they so choose. Each of these
reports shall be prepared by its author making clear as to evidence seen directly by the author.
If a person is guilty of misconduct not involving disqualification, which any of the match officials
consider to be of sufficient gravity to warrant consideration by Basketball England, a report should be
submitted by them and the club concerned notified accordingly, if appropriate
10.7
A system of cumulative "penalty points" will apply, and a one game suspension comes into force
whenever a person's total penalty points reaches (or exceeds) each of the following totals: 10, 15,
20, 25, 30, 35 etc. The suspension will take effect on/or after 14 days after the disciplinary incident.
Disqualifications automatically invoke the following minimum penalty points (See Regulation 10.9):
Player, Substitute or Team Follower
7
Coach
10
Disqualifications for two unsportsmanlike fouls automatically invoke the following penalty points
Player
7
In addition the following automatic fines will apply:
2nd disqualification in season
3rd and any subsequent disqualification in season
£75
£150
10.8
Reports should be submitted in accordance with item 10.6, and the Disciplinary Officer will consider
whether any additional penalty points should be added after consideration of the reports. This will
normally be the case for disqualifications of a grievous nature. In the event of a report being
submitted related to misconduct not involving disqualification, this will be dealt with in accordance
with items 10.12 and 10.13, and, if the report is accepted, an appropriate number of penalty points
allocated to the person concerned. Where audio-visual evidence is presented, and this evidence
indicates that other persons may be liable for disciplinary action, this will only be actioned after the
relevant party has been notified. Disciplinary points incurred within 6 weeks prior to the end of a
season will be carried forward until 30th November of the following season. The end of the playing
season is defined as the last day of the Championship Playoffs.
10.9
Disciplinary action in respect of automatic penalty points incurred by disqualification will come into
th
force on the 14 day after the incident or as otherwise decided by the Disciplinary Officer/Panel
during which time the player/coach/Team Official will be able to make an appeal as per rule 1.4. This
does not preclude the Disciplinary Officer for imposing further penalty points or a fine for the incident.
Whenever a fine is imposed on an individual in respect of 10.7, they are suspended until the fine has
been paid in full to Basketball England.
See Regulation 6.9 iii regarding two leg matches and disciplinary action.
10.10
At the end of the season, all cumulative totals will revert to zero, except as indicated in 10.8.
10.11
Match Officials shall not make any recommendation or comment, either in their report or otherwise,
as to the disciplinary action that they consider to be appropriate.
10.12
The normal process for the Disciplinary Officer and any subsequent appeal will be as follows:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
Reports in writing from referees must be sent to the National Leagues Department within 48
hours of the incident, or in case of a Sunday fixture by 12.00noon on the Tuesday following
that game. Failure to do so within the specified timeframe will result in disciplinary action
being taken against the official in accordance with 10.23 Officials Discipline.
The player or coaches club or official will normally be informed within 7 days of the incident
that the incident has been or will be reported to the Disciplinary Officer other than in
connection with the imposition of any automatic points which will be as per rule 10.9.
Normally the club or individual will be invited, if they wish, to make submissions to the
Disciplinary Officer in connection with the incident reported to the disciplinary Officer.
The club will be supplied with the following information available to Basketball England at
that time:
• Commissioners report
• Referees reports
The Disciplinary Officer will normally consider the related incident within 10 days of it
occurring. Should this day fall during a weekend the 10th day will be considered to be the
following working day.
An appeal may be made against the decision as per National Competitions rule 1.4. On
receipt of the appeal the date for the appeal hearing will normally be listed. If no appeal is
th
applied for then the disciplinary action will come into force on the 14 day following the
incident.
Within seven days from the receipt of a request for an appeal all additional information
concerning the incident will be sent to the appellant.
This to include:
• Disciplinary Officer reason for discipline
• Any other evidence related to the incident or reason for discipline being applied.
The appeal will normally be arranged within fifteen days of the appeal being lodged in writing
along with any deposit.
Basketball England may however, alter this timescale at its discretion. Any approach or
communication made by or on behalf of a club or individual, other than in writing as permitted by the
rules or regulations, to the Disciplinary Officer related to any matter which is "Sub-Judice" (except
where the Disciplinary Officer may have specifically requested or invited such communication) is
deemed to be misconduct, and appropriate disciplinary action may ensure. It is not the normal
practice for a personal hearing to be given by the Disciplinary Officer. A personal hearing may,
however, be requested in the case of an appeal.
10.13
Disciplinary action as a result of a decision of the Disciplinary Officer will normally come into effect
th
on the 14 day after the incident or as otherwise decided by the Disciplinary Officer. In all cases
should an appeal be lodged against a decision of the Disciplinary Officer or automatic points, any
disciplinary action will be suspended until such time as the appeal is heard. In the event of
misconduct during the course of an event for which a special Technical Commission is in operation
(See Regulation 13.2), the matter will be considered by that Technical Committee as expeditiously
as they deem to be appropriate. Any ensuing disciplinary action may have immediate effect if that
Technical Committee so decides.
10.14
Any club, player or official offering or receiving any reward or other inducement to or from another
club or person to win or lose a match, or being found guilty of placing a wager on any basketball
match in which they are involved, shall be deemed guilty of misconduct, and may be dealt with in
accordance with 10.4
10.15
Any club which deliberately fields a weakened team without what Basketball England considers to be
good reason, or is deemed to have deliberately lost a match, shall be deemed to be guilty of
misconduct and may be dealt with in accordance with item 10.2. Basketball England may require
teams to provide medical certificates in cases of doubt regarding illness or injury.
10.16
Players, Coaches, Directors and Representatives of Clubs shall not directly or indirectly approach
match officials before, during or after the game to give information or make comment which may be
regarded as being intended to influence a match official's judgement or neutrality in any way. Such
action will be regarded as serious misconduct and the offender and the club they represent will be
subject to severe disciplinary action (item 10.2 shall apply).
10.17
The following fines will automatically be imposed:
Offence
Item
(a)
(b)
Failure to provide licensed table officials
Forfeiture of fixture
(4.4)
(6.15)
(c)
(g)
Failure to attend the pre-game meeting and/or
Late arrival of team for pre-game (5 players)
Failure to send scoresheet as required
Failure to send statistics sheet or FIBA LiveStats
game file as required
Failure to provide programme as required
Failure to telephone result
(h)
(i)
(j)
(k)
(l)
Failure to provide refreshments
Failure to field 8 players
Failure to provide scoreboard / 24 seconds device
Failure to provide adequate stewarding
Fielding an ineligible player
(d)
(e)
(f)
(7.3)
(7.16)
For each offence
(All Divisions)
£25 fine (per official)
Senior
£150 fine (1st Offence)
£300 fine (Subsequent offence)
Under 18
£100 fine (1st Offence)
£200 fine (Subsequent offence)
£50 fine
£40 fine
(7.16)
(7.16)
(7.17)
£30 fine
£ 30 fine
£15 fine 1st Offence
£30 fine Subsequent offence
(7.18)
£50 fine
(7.20)
£50 fine
(9.3 + 9.4) £100 fine
(9.7)
£50 fine
(19.3)
Min £500 fine
Plus consideration by the
Competitions Review Panel
(m)
(n)
Failure to ensure branding & numbering of shirts/court (9.5/5.1) £25 per offence
A team arriving on the playing court after the scheduled tip off time will be automatically
fined:
Up to 15 minutes after the originally scheduled starting time
£50
A late payment levy of 10% will be made for every 30 days that the fine is overdue.
Clubs will also be fined at the discretion of Basketball England for their failure to meet any of the
general standards expected of them. The level of fines will be determined by Basketball England.
10.18
A coach or player under suspension for a match may not play in the match, act as team coach (or
assistant coach), sit on the team bench as a team follower, or communicate with the team from 20
minutes prior to the scheduled starting time of the match, until after the end of the match. They may
be present in the venue as a spectator unless otherwise stated by the Disciplinary Officer.
A person under suspension from a match is also barred from participating in any other match(es) in
the National competition(s) for which they may be eligible, that take place on the same day as the
match specified for their suspension, unless otherwise decided by the Disciplinary Officer.
10.19
Failure to observe a suspension or breaching any condition applied as part of a suspension is
classed as a breach of suspension. Any breach of suspension will result in the case being referred to
the Disciplinary Officer and further disciplinary action will be taken.
10.20
Suspension will apply to matches in the National competitions. They will not apply to other events,
including FIBA competitions, unless otherwise determined by the Disciplinary Officer.
10.21
Any person for whom a positive result has been determined in respect of the use of a prohibited
substance (or refusing to take a test for such substances) shall automatically be referred to the
National Anti-Doping Organisation for the United Kingdom who will determine the appropriate
penalty under the WADA code.
If a player has been found to have committed an anti-doping rule violation during a Competition, the
result of the game shall remain valid. However, in such a case, the player in question shall forfeit any
medals and prizes. In addition players will receive a Provisional Suspension as per Article 7.7 of the
UK Anti-Doping Rules. Basketball England will issue a ‘Notice of Charge’ to both the player and the
club.
10.22
The Disciplinary Officer shall have the power to amend the awarding of automatic points if they are
of the opinion that a miscarriage of justice has taken place.
10.23
Any breach of the following procedures by Match Officials will result in disciplinary action being taken
against them:
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
Failure to submit a disciplinary report within the regulated time or at all (reports are required
from all referees/umpires) (See Regulation 10.6).
Allowing players, coaches, team followers to participate in a match when they do not have a
valid license card or do not produce a valid email received from the national leagues
department which shows they have licensed.
Note: If it is declared that a license card will arrive after the tip time but during the game
then:
i.
That participant can be included on the score sheet but cannot participate in the
game (including sitting on the bench) until their license arrives.
ii.
If the license fails to arrive then the table officials must cross the name of that
participant off the score sheet.
Failure to check a score sheet which subsequently has mistakes affecting the result of the
game. Refer to FIBA Official Basketball Rules Article 46.8
Arriving less than 20 minutes prior to the scheduled tip off time or failing to fulfil a nomination
without a valid reason (See Regulation 4.8).
Breach the Match Officials Code of Conduct.
Appeals (See Regulation 1.4) - Any official who is disciplined under the disciplinary procedures may
appeal following the appeals procedure; any appeal must be lodged in writing in line with regulation
1.4 and must be accompanied by a deposit of £250.
11.
Disputes
11.1
Any complaint regarding the circumstances of a match must be recorded in accordance with the
procedure indicated in 11.5 and followed by a written report, which must be received at the
Headquarters of Basketball England within 72 hours of the completion of the match in question, and
to be valid must be accompanied by a deposit of £100 (also see Regulation 11.2). The deposit may
be returned if the complaint is considered by Basketball England to be valid. A copy of any complaint
lodged under this article must also be sent by the club concerned to the opposing club, and to the
match officials. Under no circumstances can the result be protested on the grounds of the quality of
match officials appointed by Basketball England or its nominees.
11.2
Disputes or protests in respect of matches promoted by Basketball England must be recorded in
accordance with 11.5, and submitted in writing within one hour of the completion of the match,
accompanied by a cheque deposit of £100, to a member of the Technical Committee or where no
such person is present, to the Commissioner, or the senior representative of Basketball England in
attendance.
11.3
If either team, or the match officials, has any reason to consider the circumstances may be such as
to invalidate or forfeit a match, this should be stated at the earliest opportunity, and reported to
Basketball England by the Commissioner. A match shall then take place or continue under the
existing conditions and the scoresheet and all reports be forwarded to Basketball England who will
determine the validity of the events.
11.4
If prior to or during the course of a match, the coach, captain or representative of a competing team
has a complaint related to these regulations, they should notify the Commissioner (or Referee in the
absence of a Commissioner), who shall record the matter. Immediately, if the ball is dead and the
clock is stopped, or at the first opportunity thereafter, the Referee should be notified. The captain of
the team shall make their observations to the Referee in a calm and courteous manner. The Referee
may explain their decision or, if necessary, may examine the scoresheet and check the score and
the playing time remaining. The interruption of play thus caused, should it exceed 30 seconds, shall
be charged as a Time-Out to the team in question, unless the Referee, recognising the validity of the
observation, decides otherwise.
11.5
If, at the end of a match, a team considers that it has suffered unreasonable harm by virtue of any
occurrence connected with the match, with the exception of decisions by the match officials, the
captain of the team may sign the scoresheet "under protest". This must be done within 10 minutes of
the end of the match. The referee should ensure that they do not close the scoresheet, by signing it,
until the 10-minute period has elapsed. All match officials and table officials should remain at the
disposal of the referee until they have signed the scoresheet. If a team signs the scoresheet "under
protest", it must then adopt the procedure indicated under items 11.1 and 11.2 to ensure the protest
is valid. Regardless of subsequent actions, by signing the scoresheet "under protest", a club
becomes automatically liable to pay the deposit of £100.
11.6
All disputes and protests will be considered by the Competitions Review Panel in accordance with
Regulation 1.2.
12.
Trophies
12.1
Trophies remain the property of Basketball England. When the winning clubs have been ascertained,
Basketball England will present the appropriate trophy to that club, who will be responsible for its
return to Basketball England, prior to 1st September of the following season, in good order and
condition. Failure to return the trophies by this date may result in Basketball England collecting the
trophy, the cost of this paid by the club. Basketball England will normally keep the trophies at all
other times.
12.2
Should a trophy be damaged whilst under the care or custody of a club, the club may be required to
refund to Basketball England the amount of the present value of the trophy, or the cost of thorough
repair. Should a trophy be lost or destroyed from any cause whilst under the care and custody of a
club, the club may be required to pay to Basketball England a sum equivalent to the present value of
the trophy as and for liquidated damages, in addition to any other penalty that Basketball England
may impose.
12.3
Basketball England will present 16 individual mementoes to the following:
NBL Division One Men
NBL Division One Women / WBBL (as appropriate)
NBL Division Two Men
NBL Division Two Women / Women’s Leagues (as appropriate)
NBL Division Three Men
NBL Division Four Men
National Cup (Men and Women)
National Trophy (Men and Women)
National Shield Men
Patrons Cup
Winners and Runners-Up
Winners and Runners-Up
Winners and Runners-Up
Winners and Runners-Up
Winners and Runners-Up
Winners and Runners-Up
Winners and Runners-Up
Winners and Runners-Up
Winners and Runners-Up
Winners and Runners-Up
Mementoes will also be awarded to each team in the Playoff Finals.
Normally no additional identical mementoes will be awarded or purchased other than those listed
above.
12.4
Basketball England will normally present mementoes to the players and coaches that participate in
the Cup and Playoff Finals. When a player or coach taking part is disqualified for misconduct,
however, the memento to which they may be entitled may be withheld at the discretion of Basketball
England.
13.
Final ties
13.1
Basketball England (and/or BBL) will arrange for the organisation and promotion of the Cup Finals
and the League Playoff Finals as appropriate.
At such events bench personnel must be dressed in smart clothing, tracksuits and denim are not
permitted. Exception: A team manager / physio may wear a team tracksuit. (Failure to abide by this
regulation will result in disciplinary action).
13.2
At Matches organised by Basketball England as defined in 13.1, a Technical Commission will be
nominated by Basketball England to take responsibility for disciplinary action and such other
decisions related to the event as may from time to time be necessary.
13.3
In the event of Basketball England appointing an organisation, club or individual to promote the
event on its behalf, that promoter shall have the responsibility for providing benefits for each
competing team as agreed with Basketball England. However a minimum of 100 tickets for any
event will be reserved for the club to purchase. These tickets shall normally be kept available for the
club until 10 days prior to the event unless otherwise agreed with the event promoter.
13.4
Each competing club will receive a maximum of 19 event tickets/event passes for use amongst the
competitors, bench personnel and committee members of the competing club. These event
tickets/event passes are not transferable.
14.
Duties of the commissioner
14.1
A Commissioner may be appointed to each match by Basketball England (See Regulation 4.1).
A Commissioner will be appointed to all Basketball England National Competitions Finals events
14.2
The Commissioner is expected to be at the venue of the game at least one hour prior the tip off to
hold a meeting with the Referee, the Umpire, the Promoter and the Representative of each team.
14.3
During the match they should be seated at the scorer's table, in such a position as to be able to
easily view the scoresheet.
14.4
They should see to it that the event is conducted in accordance with the spirit and letter of the
regulations. To this end, they should encourage the full co-operation of the officials, the promoter
and the participating clubs.
14.5
Having completed their mandate, they shall make out a report on the appropriate form and send it
direct to the Headquarters of Basketball England.
14.6
They will be expected to convey to the Headquarters of Basketball England any claim or protest
received from any of the clubs taking part, adding any information that they may deem relevant. A
club must inform the Commissioner if it intends to sign the scoresheet "under protest".
14.7
As a nominated representative of Basketball England, they will be expected to handle any dispute,
excluding items covered under the rules of the game and advise those involved of their
responsibilities with regard to the regulations concerning the submission of reports etc.
14.8
Their report should contain reference to:
(a)
General arrangements made by the home club
(b)
Specific arrangements concerning hosting
(c)
Details concerning spectators and programmes
(d)
Playing and changing facilities including accommodation for the game officials
(e)
Any post game reception
(f)
The general conduct of the participating teams, including disqualifications
(g)
The general performances of the officials (including table officials) and to support their
impressions by completing the report forms on the officials
(h)
Equipment and technical aspects of the game
14.9
They will receive travelling and subsistence expenses in accordance with the current rates of
Basketball England (See Regulation 20.1 and 20.3).
14.10
Until the match commences they shall, after consultation with the Referee and the Promoter, make
any decision regarding whether the game shall take place and determine the match starting time.
After the match they should discuss the event with the Promoter and the Representative of the
visiting team.
14.11
14.12
In the cases where a special Technical Commission is in operation (See Regulation 13.2) the
Technical Commission assumes the responsibility for items 14.8, 14.10 and 15.6.
15.
Procedure in the event of absence of match officials
15.1
If the Referee or Umpire has failed to arrive at the appointed venue 45 minutes before the scheduled
starting time, and if no communication has been received by the Commissioner or the match
organisers, as to the reason for late arrival, the Commissioner/Referee and organisers shall take
necessary steps to ensure that a substitute official is found in order that the game can take place.
a) If another suitably qualified referee is at the venue or in the immediate vicinity, they shall be
informed that their services may be required.
b) If there are no suitably qualified referees available, the Commissioner/Referee in consultation
with the official present shall decide who shall be the second official.
c) If it is the Referee who has failed to arrive, the Umpire shall become the Referee and the
substitute official will be the Umpire.
d) If no substitute official can be located, and taking into account the principle that all games are to
be played, the game goes ahead with the sole official in total charge.
15.2
Should both floor officials fail to arrive, the Commissioner if present and the Promoter will follow the
above pattern of substitution of officials as far as possible, in order for the game to take place.
15.3
Should the nominated Commissioner fail to arrive, the pre-match meeting between representatives
of the clubs and the officials shall appoint a suitable person to act as the Commissioner. It is
recommended that if possible the person appointed shall be a listed Commissioner, a member of the
Executive Board or Council, or a neutral Area/League Official.
15.4
The Commissioner and representatives of the clubs, having been informed that one or both of the
floor officials are on their way and that they will arrive before the scheduled tip-off time will decide,
bearing in mind the distance being travelled by the absent official(s), whether they may be allowed to
officiate.
15.5
Once an official is "officially substituted" this shall not normally be changed, even if the designated
official(s) arrives. The same two officials shall continue throughout the game. The
Commissioner/Referee may set aside this item in exceptional circumstances.
15.6
In the event of injury to or illness of an official during the course of a match the Commissioner /
Referee may appoint a substitute at their discretion. See Regulation 15.1 and follow the procedure
used in the event of absence of match officials.
15.7
In accordance with the rules of the game, all match officials must ensure they are present at the
venue 1 hour prior to tip off and Table Officials should be present at the scorer's table 30 minutes
prior to the start of the match If a Table Official is not present at the scorer's 30 minutes prior to the
scheduled tip off time without prior communication as to the reason for the delay (travel
delay/unforeseen circumstances), the club are only liable to pay 50% of the match fee. In the case of
absence of any of the appointed officials, the Commissioner and Promoter should take the
necessary steps to appoint suitable replacements.
15.8
If a Table Official has failed to arrive 20 minutes before the scheduled starting time, and if no
communication has been received by the organisers the following procedure should be adopted:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
15.9
If another suitably qualified table official is at the venue or in the immediate vicinity he/she
shall be informed that their services may be required.
If there is no suitably qualified table official available, the Commissioner, in consultation with
the referee shall decide who shall be the replacement table official.
If the table official fails to arrive by the time the referee signals three minutes, then the
substitute official will be the timekeeper.
Once the official is "officially substituted" this shall not normally be changed, even if the
designated official(s) arrives.
The payment of fees and expenses for match officials is detailed under regulations 20.1 - 20.4.
16.
Licensing procedures
16.1
All match officials (Commissioners, referees and table officials) operating in BBL, National Basketball
League, Cup competitions and all other National Competitions must be licensed as an individual
participant with Basketball England. i.e. paying the relevant Competition Fee. See Regulation 16.4
for current rates. Unlicensed officials will not receive any officiating appointments from Basketball
England, and clubs will be fined for using unlicensed Officials. (See Regulation 10.17)
16.2
All players, coaches (including assistant coaches) and team followers in BBL / WBBL (as
appropriate) and National Basketball League competitions shall be licensed as an individual member
with Basketball England.
Membership Fees for 2014/15 are:
Senior Member
Youth Member (Under 18 years 01/09/2014)
£10.00
£5.00
16.3
In addition all players, coaches (including assistant coaches) and team followers in BBL / WBBL (as
appropriate) and National Basketball League competitions are required to have a National
Competitions Licence. This licence shall include a current passport photograph.
16.4
The National Competition Licence fees for 2014/15 are:
Licence Type
Senior Player
Nationality
British
EU
Non
National
Under 20 Player
British
EU
Non
National
Players 18 and under
Coach
All
All
Team Follower
Note: this is the age of the team
follower not the team they follow.
National Founders Cup
Referee (18+)
Referee (U18)
Table Official (18+)
Table Official (U18)
£10.00
£10.00
£10.00
£10.00
£10.00
£10.00
£10.00
£10.00
£10.00
£10.00
£10.00
£10.00
£10.00
£10.00
£5.00
£5.00
£5.00
£10.00
£10.00
£10.00
Comp
Fee
£25.00
£140.00
£90.00
£90.00
£250.00
£200.00
£200.00
£12.00
£12.00
£12.00
£12.00
£12.00
£12.00
£12.00
£8.50
£7.50
£3.50
£30.00
£10.00
£10.00
FIBA
Fee
N/A
£200.00
N/A
£100.00
£200.00
N/A
£100.00
N/A
£200.00
N/A
£100.00
£200.00
N/A
£100.00
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Total
Fee
£35.00
£350.00
£100.00
£200.00
£460.00
£210.00
£310.00
£22.00
£222.00
£22.00
£122.00
£222.00
£22.00
£122.00
£13.50
£12.50
£8.50
£40.00
£20.00
£20.00
£5.00
£10.00
£5.00
£10.00
£10.00
£5.00
£10.00
£5.00
£10.00
£5.00
£5.00
£5.00
£30.00
£30.00
£17.50
£17.50
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
£15.00
£15.00
£10.00
£15.00
£40.00
£35.00
£27.50
£22.50
Category
BE Fee
BBL / NBL
BBL / NBL D1 Men
NBL D2/3/4 Men
WBBL/NBL Women
BBL / NBL D1 Men
NBL D2/3/4 Men
NBL Women
BBL / NBL
BBL / NBL D1 Men
NBL D2/3/4 Men
WBBL/NBL Women
BBL / NBL D1 Men
NBL D2/3/4 Men
WBBL/NBL Women
Under 18
Under 16
Under 15/14/13
Senior team
Under 18 team
Senior
Under 18
Senior
Under 18
Coach
16.5
All the above fees are exempt from VAT and are non-refundable.
16.6
The term ‘coach’ is understood to include assistant coaches in all the above references and at all
other times throughout these regulations, unless it is specifically stated to the contrary.
16.7
A team follower is defined as a person (other than a coach, assistant coach or player) authorised by
the referee to sit on or by the team bench, and be in communication with the team during the game,
including statisticians. The minimum age of a Team Follower is 12 years old and they must have a
defined role.
16.8
A Coach must obtain the relevant qualification prior to the issue of a National Competitions Licence,
as follows:
i. All coaches including assistant coaches must hold at least the Basketball England Level 2
Coach Award.
ii.
16.9
This regulation does not apply to a ‘Non National’ Coach who has not previously been
registered in England (in subsequent seasons however the normal regulations will apply to
them).
No player may hold a valid licence to represent more than one club in any national competition. The
only exception to this is when an Under 18 Player licences to play senior basketball for another club.
No participant can be licensed for two clubs that compete in the same league or competition at any
one time. (Failure to abide by this regulation will result in disciplinary action).
17.
Issue of licences for National Competitions
17.1
All applications for National Competitions Licences are made via the Online Registration System,
Online applications can be submitted at any time, however there is no guarantee that applications
submitted after 5pm on a Thursday will be approved prior to 5pm on a Friday or in time for the
subsequent weekends games. These timescales exclude public holidays (Also see Regulation 17.5).
The Application, once submitted may require additional documentation in order to be approved:
1. Accompanied by a transfer form, duly completed, if required.
2. Accompanied by documents of International Clearance from a previous National
Association, if required unless held by Basketball England. NB: It is the responsibility of the
club to arrange the appropriate letter of clearance which must be from the National
Association, not previous club.
3. Accompanied by such other documents as may be requested or required by Basketball
England i.e. A valid DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check.
4. In the case of a Senior ‘Non National’ player, accompanied by valid UK entry documentation
(Work Permit/Certificate of Sponsorship and Visa), photocopy of passport and a signed valid
contract where applicable. (See Regulation 17.8)
Payment in full is required for all National Competitions Licence applications prior to approval.
Basketball England will provide clubs with a ‘Participant Membership Form’ which contains all the
details needed for registration and which the participants, and where applicable, parents/guardians
must sign. It is the clubs responsibility to collate this information and store it appropriately. Basketball
England reserves the right to randomly carry out spot checks and request copies of the ‘Participant
Membership Form’ at any time.
Once a National Competitions Licence has been approved and issued, the participant becomes
eligible to participate in National Basketball League or Cup fixtures. By participating in a fixture the
participant accepts:
a) The authority and jurisdiction of Basketball England and agrees to abide by its Rules and
Regulations and the Code of Ethics and Conduct.
b) The anti-doping regulations and penalties in force for the official competitions of Basketball
England and FIBA.
c) To submit to doping control tests and to abide by the respective anti-doping regulations as
appropriate.
d) That Basketball England may forward my personal data to FIBA and/or UK Sport for use in
connection with doping control.
Basketball England reserves the right to randomly carry out spot checks on the birth date of any
U13, U14, U15, U16 and or U18 player at any time throughout the season.
NB: For FIBA purposes, a foreign player is defined as a player who does not have the English
Basketball Nationality.
17.2
A player, or coach, or one who was last registered in a country other than England, must forward to
Basketball England the necessary documents of clearance (e.g. USA Basketball travel permit) from
their country of origin and country of most recent registration before a licence can be issued. A
player who was previously registered in any other country is not permitted to play in any national
competition until clearance has been received from that country in accordance with the regulations of
FIBA.
17.3
In case of any application for which there may be some doubt as to the national status of the person
concerned, all relevant documents should be submitted to Basketball England so that national status
can be determined.
17.4
In certain circumstances, where documentation is incomplete, Basketball England may issue
temporary clearance to play or coach, pending receipt of the complete and correct documents. In
such cases, the responsibility still lies with club concerned to ensure that the person will eventually
fulfil all the requirements for the issue of a licence. Temporary authorisation will not be given for any
match that takes place after 30th September of the season in question, and will not be given in the
absence of international transfer clearance.
17.5
Applications meeting the required conditions will normally be considered by Basketball England
within seven days and if Basketball England approves the application, the licence will normally be
issued with effect from the date that the approval was given. Approved licences will be posted to the
Secretary of the Club concerned, unless the Club makes alternative arrangements with Basketball
England for the licence card to be collected in person by an agent of the Club. The approval and
issue of a licence or temporary authorisation can only be undertaken on Monday to Friday excluding
Public Holidays, between the hours 9.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m. See Regulation 17.1 for submission
timescales.
Email confirmation of licence approval is only valid for the weekend following the date of issue.
17.6
Basketball England reserves the right to decline to licence a person for any particular club(s), at its
sole discretion. Similarly it may choose to cancel or suspend a licence for any person at its sole
discretion.
17.7
Failure to comply with any of the conditions relating to licensing will render a person ineligible to
represent that club. A club fielding an ineligible player or coach in a match shall be liable to
disciplinary action.
17.8
a) No licence will be issued for a ‘Non National’ that is being paid to play or coach unless a current
Work Permits / Governing Body Endorsements / Certificate of Sponsorship has been issued by
Basketball England and the UK Border Agency and is accompanied by a signed valid contract.
Normally Basketball England will only support the issue of Work Permits / Governing Body
Endorsements / Certificate of Sponsorship by the UK Border Agency, for players and coaches that
meet the agreed criteria and for no other personnel. Work permits / Governing Body Endorsements /
Certificate of Sponsorship and the granting of ‘Non National’ licences will not be supported by
Basketball England for any club that is not in good financial standing with Basketball England.
b) For a licence to be issued for ‘Non National’ players or coaches who are not being paid,
documentation must be provided to evidence that they are in the UK on an appropriate Work Permit,
Governing Body Endorsements, Certificate of Sponsorship, Visa or Volunteer Visa. A licence will not
be issued for a players or coaches who are in the UK on a tourist / visitor’s visa.
17.9
The number of licenses that may be issued to a club is restricted in accordance with Regulation 8. In
the event of a club which has a full quota in any category wishing to license an additional person in
that same category, the application for the additional licence must be accompanied by the return of
the licence of the player or coach who is to be replaced in that quota, together with written
confirmation of their new status. That person becomes ineligible to represent a club from the time
that the new application is received by Basketball England.
18.
Validity of national competition licences
18.1
Prior to the start of the playing season, all clubs should submit via the Online Registration System
applications to Basketball England, accompanied by any other required documents for persons they
wish to license in the forthcoming season (See Regulation 17). If a person or club submits more than
one licence application in the course of a season, without having been first released or transferred,
they shall be deemed guilty of misconduct in accordance with 10.1. Applications will be considered
by Basketball England, and a licence granted for each application that Basketball England deems to
be acceptable.
18.2
Persons may be licensed at any time during the season up to the 31st January. To be eligible for
consideration, an application for a player's licence, accompanied by the relevant documents and
fees, must be received by Basketball England on or before the 31st January of the season in
question. Thereafter licence applications can only be considered in respect of Coaches and Team
Followers, and in such cases only bona-fide applications will be approved.
A player may be ‘licensed’ to participate in a competition prior to 31st January however their work
permit Governing Body Endorsements / Certificate of Sponsorship & Entry Clearance / clearance /
transfer form can arrive after this date. In all cases the person does not become eligible to
coach/play until such time as work permit Governing Body Endorsements / Certificate of
Sponsorship & Entry Clearance / clearance / transfer form is received.
18.3
A person does not become eligible to represent a Club until their application has been approved by
Basketball England. The arrival of any application via the Online Registration System does not in
itself guarantee the eligibility of the person concerned.
18.4
To be valid, a licence must be issued and endorsed for the season and club in question.
18.5
No player licence applications may be received, and no transfer may take place during the period
31st January until the end of the season (usually the last day of the Playoff Finals).
18.6
In the National Cup, Trophy, Patrons Cup and Shield Competitions, in order to participate in the Final
of one of the aforementioned competitions, a player must be registered with Basketball England 7
days prior to that match. If the seventh day falls on a weekend then in order to participate the player
must be registered by the Friday i.e. 8 or 9 days before the final.
18.7
For both 18.2 and 18.5 the European Convention on the Calculation of Deadlines holds that when a
deadline expires on a Sunday, it is extended to include the very next working day.
19.
National competitions licence cards
19.1
Before each match the club must present to the Commissioner the licences of all players who are to
play in the match. The licence numbers must be inscribed on the scoresheet. In addition, the licence
cards of the coaches and team followers (i.e. those persons authorised to sit on or by the team
bench) must also be present for inspection.
19.2
Licence cards are categorised as follows: Ages of players taken at 1 Sept of each season.
st
Category
Senior Players
Under 20
Under 18
Under 16
Under 15
Under 14
Under 13
Born Between
31/08/94 or earlier
01/09/94 - 31/08/96
01/09/96 – 31/08/98
01/09/98 – 31/08/99
01/09/99 – 31/08/00
01/09/00 – 31/08/01
01/09/01 – 31/08/02
Senior
Under 20
Under 18
Under 16
Under 15
Under 14
Under 13
Eligible only to play in Senior competitions.
Eligible to play in Senior competitions
Eligible to play in Under 18 competitions and above
Eligible to play in Under 16 competitions and above
Eligible to play in Under 15 competitions and above
Eligible to play in Under 14 competitions and above
Eligible to play in Under 13 competitions and above
Only persons holding a Coach licence may act as the coach or assistant coach of the team. (Refer
also to regulation 16.8 regarding Coach Qualifications for the National Basketball Leagues.)
19.3
Failure to comply with the points below may result in a fine and/or possible forfeiture of the match as
determined by the Competitions Review Panel. At matches organised by Basketball England the
Technical Commission (See Regulation 13.2) will decide the eligibility of a person to participate in
the event.
a)
In the event of a valid licence not being produced for a player, coach or team follower that
person is not permitted to participate in the match in question.
b) If it is declared that a license card will arrive after the tip time but during the game then:
I.
that participant can be included on the score sheet but cannot participate in the game
(including sitting on the bench) until their license arrives.
II. If the license fails to arrive then the table officials must cross the name of that participant off
the score sheet.
Each team should review the licences of the opposition team. Should any challenge be made to the
validity of the licences the final decision shall lie with firstly the Commissioner, if no Commissioner
the decision shall lie with the referee. This should be reported to Basketball England.
20.
Expenses and fees of match officials
20.1
The following match fee rates will apply for season 2014/15:
Type of Game
3 Man officiating
National Cup – Men, National Cup – Women QF onwards
D1 Men and Women/WBBL, D2 Men Playoffs QF onwards
Men’s National Trophy and Patrons Cup SF onwards
Division 1 Men
International - Under 18 Men.
Division 2 Men
National Trophy - Men - Rnd 1 & 2 / Pool Games.
Patrons Cup Pool Games.
International - Under 18 Women.
Division 1 Women/WBBL
Division 3 Men.
Men’s National Shield.
Division 2 Women/Women’s Leagues – incl. Playoffs.
Division 4 Men - incl. Playoffs.
National Cup – Women – Rounds up to QF.
National Founders Cup – Quarter Final onwards.
Women’s National Trophy
National Founders Cup
Under 18, Under 16 National Cup & Playoff games (not
including Finals) - MAX CLAIM (U18/16) £25 INCL. EXPS
Under 15, 14 and 13 & Playoff games (not including Finals) MAX CLAIM (U15/14/13) £25 INCL. EXPS
Level 4 Referee / Level 4 Table Official. (Senior).
Level 3 Referee / Level 3 Table Official.
Level 2 Referee / Level 2 Table Official.
Level 1 Referee / Level 1 Table Official (Apprentice).
£25.00
£24.00
Table
Off's
£20.00
£42.00
£24.00
£20.00
£37.00
£22.00
£18.50
£31.00
£17.00
£16.00
£23.00
£16.00
£11.00
£17.00
£10.00
£8.00
£12.00
n/a
£5.00
£14.00
£13.00
£12.00
£9.00
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
£7.00
£6.00
£5.00
£4.00
Referees Comm's
20.2
Expenses paid to referees will either be in the form of:
Travel by Rail: The actual fare paid up to a maximum of second class ordinary return.
Travel by Road: 35.0p per mile. This figure does not apply where the official is using a company
car, in which case the rate shall be 18.0p per mile for all mileage. (NB - see also official’s expenses
claim forms for further details)
20.3
The maximum travel expenses a Commissioner may claim is 100 miles at 35p per mile.
The maximum travel expenses a Table Official may claim is 150 miles at 35p per mile.
For double-header appointments only one set of travel expenses may be claimed.
20.4
For all officials, a subsistence allowance of £10.00 may be claimed when an official is necessarily
away from home in excess of 10 hours. (This regulation will not apply to Basketball England National
Competition Finals events).
20.5
For appointments to all National Competition Finals Basketball England will determine the
appropriate match fee and mileage rate and or the level of expenses that will apply.
20.6
In the case of disputes over the payment of fees and expenses the following standard principles will
apply:
(i) A referee who travels to a game, having been legitimately requested to do so, should receive
their normal travelling expenses from the home club.
(ii) The match fee for officiating should only be paid when the official actually officiates in the match
in question.
20.7
In the case of a referee arriving at a match at such a time as to be unable to officiate the whole
match the following will apply:
(i) Where an official who has been appointed to a match is unable to officiate at the whole match or
in any other case where travelling difficulties or similar problems have arisen, the total amount to
be paid by the home club or promoter should be calculated by referencing regulations 4.8 and
15.7.
(ii) Basketball England may, in special circumstances, decide to modify the decision of the
Commissioner/ home club or promoter and order further payment or repayment, as it deems
appropriate.
(iii) Basketball England may fine a club or an official or both for actions, which may have lead to
difficulties under this regulation and may order payment or compensation as it deems
appropriate.
20.8
Basketball England shall publish online a list of all fixtures and Officiating Appointments. It is the
responsibility of the official to ensure he/she gains access to this information on a weekly basis.
Should a club alter any of the information after its publication, the club is responsible for informing
the officials of the change.
21.
Contract and transfer system
21.1
A person shall be free to represent the Club of his choice in the Competitions, subject to the Rules
contained herein.
21.2
All National Competition licences expire on the last day of the playing season in question in
accordance with the official calendar of Basketball England.
21.3
After expiry of any licence:
(a) A non-contract player shall become a free agent and may subsequently be licensed or
contracted by any Club. Any Club for which the player was formerly licensed shall have no
entitlement to request any compensation for the player’s services.
(b) A player who has been subject to a Standard Contract, as issued and approved by Basketball
England, which expires prior to the start of a forthcoming season, shall become a free agent and
may subsequently be licensed or contracted by any Club. Any Club for which the player was
formerly licensed shall have no entitlement to request any compensation for the player’s
services.
(c) A player who is subject to a Standard Contract which extends into the coming season shall,
except by agreement of his Club, only be licensed for that Club in the forthcoming season.
21.4
A free agent may, subject to FIBA regulations, sign an application for a Competitions Licence at any
time, and for any Club, except during the period 1 February to 31 May each year, or as otherwise
restricted by other Rules, and any Club for which he was formerly licensed shall have no entitlement
to request any compensation.
21.5
Subject to the requirements embodied in any contract that is valid at that time, a Club may at any
time release a non-contract player and shall notify the player of such release and shall surrender his
licence to Basketball England, whereupon the player shall immediately become a free agent.
21.6
A contract player shall be entitled to apply for a licence to coach without compensation. Any
subsequent request by the player or his new Club for a licence for the coach to play will be subject to
the terms embodied in the Standard Contract for the period of time stipulated by the Standard
Contract.
21.7
The terms and conditions contained in the Standard Contract shall govern the transfer of any player
to whom such a contract applies and shall take precedence over any conflicting terms in these
Rules.
21.8
In order to establish the existence of a Standard Contract, a Club shall, within 7 days of signature by
both parties, forward to Basketball England the signed Certificate of Contract contained in the
Standard Contract.
21.9
Where players are transferring between Clubs, the new contract must be lodged with Basketball
England within 7 days of signature by both parties.
21.10
Where a player and his Club, (or related companies, organisations or sponsors of the Club) have
agreed more than one contract to cover the same period of time, both contracts must be lodged with
the Chief Executive of Basketball England. Failure to lodge any relevant contracts could lead to the
penalties.
21.11
A player, coach and team follower may, at any time, demand their release. The Club for which they
are licensed must immediately comply, unless it is of the opinion that the player, coach and team
follower owes money to the Club (The club are required to submit an account of the debt for
Basketball England to consider), in which case the Club shall forward the licence to Basketball
England, this is to be held until such time as Basketball England is satisfied that such money has
been paid if the debt is considered to be accurate and a true account of agreement between the
parties.
21.12
A player shall have the right to invoke arbitration by Basketball England, if the player is of the view
that a Club is acting unreasonably in relation to the provisions of the Standard Contract governing
expiry, release and transfer.
21.13
A transfer of a Competition Licence from one Club to another during the course of a season shall not
normally be permitted, unless the player, the transferee Club and the transferor Club have all
consented to such transfer and the terms of such a transfer. If all parties cannot come to an
agreement, this matter will be considered by the Competitions Review Panel.
21.14
If a licensed player wishes to seek a transfer of his licence during the course of a season, they shall
submit this request to the Club concerned and Basketball England in writing asking to be made
available for transfer. For players who have not signed any contract with a Club, the Club must
comply with this request within 7 days and inform Basketball England. The player is advised to send
a copy of the request to Basketball England for verification purposes.
For contract players if the transferor Club and the transferee club cannot agree terms for such a
transfer, either Club shall have the right to invoke arbitration by Basketball England.
21.15
Whenever agreement is reached relating to the transfer of a Competition Licence, a transfer form
shall be completed and signed by the licensed person and the Secretary or otherwise authorised
representative of the transferee Club and transferor Club. The form should contain all details of the
conditions agreed by the parties and which are being submitted to Basketball England for its
consideration. This form shall then be forwarded to the headquarters of Basketball England, together
with the new licence application, any current licence card and the appropriate licensing fees.
The person becomes eligible to represent the new Club only when the documents are received and
approved by Basketball England. It is the responsibility of the transferee Club and transferor Club to
ascertain that the transfer has been successfully completed.
21.16
Only in the case of contracted players, coaches and team followers if any transfer fee is payable in
respect of the transfer of a competition licence, such fee shall be deemed exclusive of Value Added
Tax, unless specifically stated otherwise, and the Value Added Tax at the current rate shall be
payable in addition to the fee stipulated if the transferor Club is registered for Value Added Tax.
21.17
A transfer form signed shall constitute an absolute certification that the transferor Club is satisfied
that the fee and any Value Added Tax thereon has been or will be paid to them by the transferee
Club and a transfer shall not subsequently be annulled by virtue of breach of contract by the
transferee Club.
21.18
Not more than 4 transfers shall be permitted between the same transferor and transferee team/club
in any one year ended 31 May and a transfer shall not be approved if it includes an automatic return
clause. A transfer may include a provision related to payment by a transferor Club if the licensed
person rejoins the transferor club at a later date.
21.19
Whilst a person holds a Competition Licence, no person representing any other Club shall approach
the person with a view to inducing him to leave that Club, unless permission has been granted in
writing by a duly authorised representative of the Club to which the person is currently licensed. Any
infringement of this rule shall be treated by Basketball England as misconduct and action may be
taken under Regulation 10.
21.20
The Rules in this Section shall apply to a person who is licensed solely as a coach, except in so far
as they relate to the Standard Contract and, therefore, at the end of a season, a coach shall have
the status of a free agent. The Rules of this Section shall apply to a person who is licensed as both a
player and a coach as if the person is a player only.
21.21
Any transfer of a Competitions Licence shall be arranged directly between the transferor Club,
transferee Club and the individual concerned and not through or by an agent.
21.22
If Basketball England determines that a Club is in breach of the terms and conditions of a Standard
Contract so as to merit the termination thereof forthwith, the player shall thereafter be deemed to be
a non-contract player under these Rules.
21.23
The playing season shall be considered to extend from the first date on which The Competitions
involving a Club take place until the last date on which The Competitions involving that Club take
place.
21.24
A person having represented a team i.e. having their name inscribed on the scoresheet, as a player
or coach in any cup competition, cannot subsequently represent any other team as a player or coach
in the same cup competition during the season in question, i.e. they are ‘Cup-Tied’.
22.
Promotion / relegation:
22.1
A club currently in the National Basketball League shall have a licence to play in the National League
until such time as it finishes in last place in any of the lowest divisions. In that case its licence may
be withdrawn. Promotion / Relegation is determined on final league positions over the full season;
playoff and cup competitions are not taken into account.
22.2
Only the clubs which finish in first and second places in the NBL Division One Men may make an
application to join the British Basketball League. No other club in the NBL will be granted permission
or licences to move to and compete in the BBL.
22.3
Admission shall be granted at the discretion of Basketball England and the British Basketball
League. No other club is eligible to apply for admission to the British Basketball League except with
the agreement of Basketball England and the British Basketball League and this will only be given in
exceptional circumstances.
22.4
Any club displaced from the British Basketball League by virtue of the promotion into the League of a
club from the NBL Division One Men, or if the club is no longer able to meet the requirements of the
British Basketball League, shall normally be entitled to a place in NBL Division Two Men, subject to
their application being received in accordance with Regulation 3.2 and their meeting the Basketball
England Standards.
22.5
The clubs which finish in first and second places in the NBL Division Two Men will be promoted and
join NBL Division One Men subject to the teams meeting the required standards both on and off
court.
22.6
Clubs that finish in the bottom two places in of NBL Division One Men, or teams who don’t meet the
required standards, will be relegated to NBL Division Two Men. Similarly, clubs that finish in the
bottom two places of NBL Division Two Men will be relegated to NBL Division Three Men and clubs
that finish in the bottom two places of NBL Division Three Men will be relegated to NBL Division Four
Men. Unless otherwise decided by Basketball England.
22.7
Clubs which finish in first and second places in NBL Division Three may make an application to join
NBL Division Two, and the clubs which finish in first and second places in NBL Division Four may
make an application to join NBL Division Three. Any such application is subject to the teams
attaining the required on and off court standards. Any team that finishes in first or second place in
Division Three or Four in two successive seasons and fails to apply for promotion, may have their
licence to compete removed.
22.8
Clubs that finish in the bottom two places in NBL Division One Women / WBBL (as appropriate), or
teams who don’t meet the required standards, will be relegated to NBL Division Two Women /
Women’s Leagues (as appropriate). Unless otherwise decided by Basketball England.
The clubs which finish in first and second places in NBL Division Two Women / Women’s Leagues
(as appropriate) may make an application to join NBL Division One Women / WBBL (as appropriate)
subject to meeting the required standards both on and off court.
22.9
The performance of all National Basketball League clubs with regard to their compliance with these
and other relevant regulations shall normally be reviewed on both 30th November and 31st January
during the playing season. Clubs will be advised in writing of perceived shortcomings and the
remedial action necessary. This will be based on the Basketball England Standards Document.
Basketball England shall be entitled to take whatever action it deems appropriate for clubs
consistently failing to comply with appropriate Rules & Regulations.
23.
Licences
23.1
Each club that has its entry accepted by Basketball England is granted a licence to play in the
respective National Basketball League subject to the regulations contained herein and in regulation
22 above.
23.2
Applications for entry to the National Basketball League shall include a request for the right to play
home games at an approved playing venue for the upcoming season. In the case of two or more
clubs applying for the same venue, the Competitions Review Panel shall consider the applications
and determine which club is awarded the rights to that venue or in special circumstances, order that
the venue be shared by two or more clubs.
23.3
An existing National Basketball League club may lodge an objection whenever it considers that
another club proposes to play home matches in national competitions, at the same level of
competition, at a venue unreasonably close to its established home court. The Competitions Review
Panel shall consider any such objection and determine each case on its merits.
23.4
It is recognised that the control of playing venues is exercised by the venue owners, and there can
be no implication that, by exercising its authority in respect of these regulations, Basketball England
gives any undertaking or guarantee relating to access to the venues in question.
23.5
Each club in the National Basketball League shall have an adequate level of administration to enable
it to discharge the essential functions of a club to a level acceptable to Basketball England.
23.6
Each club in the National Basketball League must display adequate levels of finance to enable it to
perform in all respects in a manner that is consistent with its status.
23.7
Each club in the National Basketball League is expected to promote, present and develop basketball
to the best of its ability, and at a level of competence and suitability to the satisfaction of Basketball
England.
23.8
The playing facilities for clubs in the National Basketball League must be of a quality deemed by
Basketball England to be suitable for the level of the competition. This must be in line with the
Basketball England Standards document. Venues must comply with current government health and
safety legislation and be able to provide a certificate in support of that fact. In particular, facilities are
expected to provide:
(i)
Adequate accommodation for spectators.
NBL Division One & Two Men
500
NBL Division Three & Four Men
250
NBL Division One Women / WBBL (as appropriate)
250
NBL Division Two Women / Women’s Leagues (as appropriate) 150
(ii) Technical equipment of the appropriate standard for the level of competition.
(iii) Adequate levels of heating and lighting.
(iv) Adequate car parking facilities.
(v) Suitable cloakroom facilities (including separate accommodation for officials).
(iv) Suitable facilities for representatives of the media.
(vii) Appropriate levels of maintenance and decor.
(viii) Playing equipment of the required standard.
(ix) Adequate separation between participants and spectators.
23.9
24.
In all aspects stated herein, and in all other aspects, a club must satisfy Basketball England that it is
willing and able to carry out all the requirements and expectations that Basketball England currently
holds related to a club participating in the applicable division of the National Basketball League.
Franchises
Where a club in the National Basketball League claims to have had its rights breached under a
franchise agreement that has previously been agreed to by Basketball England, the club shall lodge
a copy of the signed franchise agreement, along with the club’s claim, to the Basketball England
Competitions Review Panel for consideration. The Competitions Review Panel may refer its decision
to the Executive Board of Basketball England for ratification or refer the claim to the Executive Board
for a final decision.
The following regulations apply to the competitions listed below
Under 18 and Under 16 National Cups (Men and Women)
Under 18 Men & Women, Under 16 Men & Women and Under 13/14/15 Leagues
National Founders Cup (Men and Women)
Management
Regulations 1.1 to 1.8 inclusive apply.
25.
Affiliation and licencing
Regulations 2.1, 2.2 and 2.4 to 2.11 inclusive apply.
25.1
No nursery team, second team or club having any official or unofficial obligation to or connections
with another club is permitted to play in the same league division as that other club, without prior
approval of Basketball England. If approval is granted players cannot move between teams, they
must be licensed for team I or team II.
26.
Entry to competitions
Regulations 3.3, 3.7, 3.9 and 3.10 apply. In addition:
26.1
The entry fees are as follows:
(i)
£80
(ii)
£30
(iii)
£80
(iv)
£30
(v)
£60
(vi)
£80
-
Under 18 Men/Women Leagues
Under 18 Men/Women National Cup only
Under 16 Men/Women League
Under 16 Men/Women National Cup only
Under 13/14/15
National Founders Cup (Men and Women)
Surety Fee’s are as follows:
£100 for National Founders Cup teams
£100 for the first age group team
£50 for subsequent age group teams
26.2
Entries must be received by Basketball England as follows
st
By 1 June preceding the season in question - Under 18 / Under 16 League & National Cup
st
By 1 June preceding the season in question - Under 13/14/15 Leagues
st
By 31 July preceding the season in question - National Founders Cup
27.
Match officials
Regulations 4.1, 4.3, 4.5, 4.6 and 4.7 apply. Regulation 4.2 applies for National Founders Cup only.
In addition:
27.1
In the Under 18 Men’s Division the Referee (and on occasions, the umpire) may be appointed by
Basketball England for each match. When an official is not appointed by Basketball England, the
home club is responsible for the appointment of a licensed, qualified neutral official(s) who must
have no connection with the home club (the only exception to this is in line with Regulation 27.8).
The referee must hold at least the Level 2 award. Referees will be paid a joint fee/expenses up to a
maximum of £25.00.
27.2
In the Under 18 and Under 16 National Cup a Commissioner, Referee and Umpire will normally be
appointed by Basketball England for each match from the semi finals onwards. For Under 18 and
Under 16 Competitions the scale of fees listed in 20.1 will apply.
27.3
In the Under 18 Women’s League, Under 16 Leagues the home club is responsible for the
appointment of a licensed, qualified neutral referee and umpire who must have no connection with
the home club (the only exception to this is in line with Regulation 27.8). Officials must be qualified,
and the referee must hold at least the Level 2 award. For the Under 18 Women’s and Under 16
Leagues the fees/expenses will be paid in accordance with the current Basketball England rates
(See Regulation 20.1 & 20.2) In all competitions the fees/expenses shall not exceed £25.00.
27.4
In the Under 13/14/15 Leagues the home club is responsible for the appointment of a licensed,
qualified neutral referee and umpire who must have no connection with the home club (the only
exception to this is in line with Regulation 27.8). Officials must be qualified, and the referee must
hold at least the Level 2 award. For the Under 13/14/15 Leagues the fees/expenses will be paid in
accordance with the current Basketball England rates (See Regulation 20.1 & 20.2) In all
competitions the fees/expenses shall not exceed £25.00.
In the event of a home club appointing an official that does not meet the above regulations (27.127.4) the game will be forfeited and the club may be subject to disciplinary procedures.
27.5
For all end of season Playoff matches a referee and umpire will be appointed by Basketball England.
27.6
All match officials will receive travelling expenses in accordance with the rates laid down by
Basketball England (See Regulation 20.2) unless otherwise stated above. The home club is to pay
these expenses.
27.7
The home club shall provide table officials for all their home games (including cup and playoff
games, except the finals).
(i) Under 18 Men & Under 16 Boys Premier teams and Under 18 Women’s teams must have a
minimum of two level 2 Table officials.
(ii) Under 18 Men & Under 16 Boys conference teams, Under 16 Girls teams and all Under 15,
Under 14 & Under 13 teams must have a minimum of either two Level 1 table officials or 1 Level
2 table official (along with a registered Basketball England member).
Failure to meet these regulations will result in an automatic fine being imposed (See Regulation
10.17).
27.8
For all age group competitions Junior National League teams may appoint one development referee
to officiate home games. The development referee must meet the following criteria or they will be
deemed ineligible and the game will be declared forfeit in line with regulation 27.1:
(i) Must be qualified with Basketball England to referee level 1.
(ii) Must be registered with Basketball England as a referee.
(iii) Must have an independent (not a member of the club or has a relation in any way connected to
it), qualified (Level 2 minimum), registered & experienced (at least 2 years experience and has
officiated games in the previous two seasons) co-official 18 years old or over.
(iv) No siblings/family taking part in fixture.
(v) Is not registered to participate in the same competition.
(vi) Is a minimum of 2 years older than age group they are officiating.
(vii) Development referees should be paid in line with regulation 20.1 at the level 1 rate (max claim
£15).
The competitions department reserve the right restrict any level 1 referee from officiating in any
future fixtures if they are not deemed to be meeting the required standard.
28.
Team uniforms
Regulations 5.1 - 5.6 inclusive apply.
29.
Fixtures
Regulations 6.1 to 6.4 and, 6.10 to 6.19 apply. In addition:
29.1
In the Under 18 Cup (Men and Women) Under 16 Cup (Men and Women), matches will be played
on a single leg knock-out basis. In the Founder's Cup first round pool matches games will be played
as a league. Quarter and Semi Final games may take place over two legs.
29.2
In the Under 18 and Under 16 Leagues, teams shall be split into Conferences playing each other
home and away culminating in end of season Playoffs.
The League winner will be determined by the winner of the Final Four Tournament.
29.3
In the Under 13/14/15 Leagues teams will be divided into regional divisions. Playoffs will be held at
the end of the season to determine the League Champions.
29.4
For all League competitions above, the League winner will be determined by the winner of the Final
Four Tournament.
29.5
Matches shall normally be played on Saturday or Sunday at the discretion of the home club. They
may, however, be played on other days, prior to that date, by mutual agreement and with the
permission of Basketball England. Normally no club shall be required to undertake a weekend fixture
that does not enable its players to arrive back at their home base at a reasonable time. See
regulation 6.10
29.6
Matches will be arranged in the form of a Home and Away league, with end of season playoffs.
29.7
Fixture Obligations - All matches will be played according to the published fixture guidelines unless
changes have been agreed by both teams and Basketball England. Only under exceptional
circumstances will fixture postponements be accepted. In such cases permission must be sought
from Basketball England. If any cancellation takes place the cancelling team will be responsible for
notifying the opponents and must submit a written explanation to the organisers within 24 hours of
the fixture date. A fine of up to £100 may be issued dependent upon the circumstances.
The home team must confirm all details with the visiting teams at least two weeks before the fixture.
30.
During the event
Regulations 7.3 to 7.20 inclusive apply. In addition:
30.1
The home team shall be responsible for notifying the result of the match by telephone to Basketball
England, in all cases this should be within 15 minute of the game finishing. In the case of failure to
do so, an automatic fine will be imposed (See Regulation 10.17). Telephone 0114 2444 888.
30.2
The white copy of the official score sheet shall be forwarded by 1st class mail by the home club to
the Headquarters of Basketball England within 48 hours of the match.
30.3
In the event of a coach being ejected from a game, where no suitable qualified and registered
assistant coach is present the game will be abandoned and referred to the National League
Department, Competitions Review Panel and/or Disciplinary Officer for consideration regarding the
outcome of the game.
(Note: All Junior National League teams are expected to travel with at least 2 appropriate adults in
line with the Basketball England Safeguarding Policy)
31.
Facilities
Regulations 9.1, 9.3, 9.6 and 9.7 shall apply.
32.
Disciplinary action
Regulations 10.1 to 10.22 inclusive shall apply.
33.
Disputes
Regulations 11.1 to 11.6 inclusive shall apply.
34.
Trophies
Regulations 12.1 and 12.2 shall apply. In addition
34.1
35.
Basketball England will present individual mementoes to the following:
Under 18 Men's Final Four:
16 each to Winners and Runners-Up
Under 18 Women’s Final Four:
16 each to Winners and Runners-Up
Under 16 Men's Final Four:
16 each to Winners and Runners-Up
Under 16 Women's Final Four:
16 each to Winners and Runners-Up
Under 13/14/15 Final Four:
16 each to Winners and Runners-Up
Under 18 / 16 National Cup:
16 each to Winners and Runners-Up
National Founders Cup:
16 each to Winners and Runners-Up
Final ties
Regulations 13.1 and 21.24 inclusive shall apply. In addition:
35.1
The Under 18 and Under 16 National Cup Finals will be played on a single leg basis, on the home
court of one of the competing teams unless otherwise decided by Basketball England.
35.2
Playoff Matches will be played as single leg matches on the home courts of one of the competing
teams unless otherwise decided by Basketball England, for example a Final Four Tournament.
35.3
Basketball England will normally present mementoes to the players and coaches that participate in
the Finals. When a player or coach taking part is disqualified during any part of the Final, the
memento to which they may be entitled may be withheld at the discretion of Basketball England.
35.4
In the case of two leg matches, if either leg results in a tie, no extra time will be played. Extra periods
will be played if the match is a tie on aggregate at the end of two legs. In the event of disciplinary
action being taken arising out of the first leg, any suspension imposed will automatically have effect
for the second leg.
36.
Duties of the commissioner
Regulations 14.1 to 14.12 inclusive shall apply. In addition:
36.1
Where no Commissioner is appointed, the Referee shall be responsible for such of the
Commissioners duties as they may reasonably be capable of performing and particularly those
duties specified in regulations 14.2, 14.6and 14.11.
37.
Procedure in the event of absence of match officials
Regulations 15.1 to 15.9 inclusive shall apply. In addition:
37.1
Where no Commissioner has been appointed, the Referee shall assume their responsibilities under
this regulation.
38.
Licensing procedure
38.1
All match officials operating in these competitions must be licensed as an individual participant with
Basketball England. See regulation 16.2 for current fees.
38.2
All players and coaches (including assistant coaches) in these competitions shall be licensed as an
individual participant with Basketball England. See regulation 16.2 for current fees.
38.3
In addition all players and coaches (including assistant coaches) in the Under 18, Under 16 and
Under 13/14/15 competitions are required to have a National Competitions licence.
38.4
The National Competition licence fees for players and coaches may be found by reference to the
table listed under regulation 16.4.
38.5
National Competition licences are not transferable.
38.6
No additional player licences will be issued after 31st January of the season in question.
39.
Licence issue and declaration
Regulations 17.1 and 17.3 to 17.8 inclusive and 19.3 shall apply where appropriate. In addition:
39.1
Before each match, clubs must present to the Commissioner (or Referee where no Commissioner
has been appointed) the licence cards/licensed player register with details of all players who are to
play in the match. The licence numbers must be inscribed on the scoresheet. 30 minutes prior to the
start of the game the opposition coach and or team manager should check the licence cards against
the team list and playing personnel on court.
39.2
In the event of a valid licence not being produced for a player, coach or team follower, that person is
not permitted to participate in the match in question.
39.3
A player may transfer to another club in accordance with the normal transfer regulations (See
Regulation 21).
39.4
Any club playing an ineligible or unregistered player may lose the game by default, and be subject to
further disciplinary action by Basketball England.
This is also applicable in relation to the appointment of referees as per regulation 27.1.
39.5
Clubs may enter one or more competitions but players can only play ‘up’, not ‘down’. Also refer to
regulation 25.1.
40.
Eligibility for Under 18 leagues and under 18 National Cup
40.1
Under 18 Players: ages of players taken at 1 Sept of each season
40.2
Player Eligibility regulations for Under 18 Competitions, There are no restrictions on the number of
EU and Non National players in a team.
40.3
Teams must field a minimum of 8 players.
40.4
A player who is licensed with Basketball England to play for a Under 18 NBL club may also license
with Basketball England to play for a different club in the Senior NBL if his/her Under 18 club is not
connected to a 'parent' senior club, this is subject to the written approval of both clubs.
40.5
A player who is licensed with Basketball England to play for an Under 18 NBL club which also has a
'parent' senior club in the NBL may only play for that senior club in the NBL.
40.6
Where an Under 18 player is licensed to play in the Senior NBL for a club that does not have a team
in the Under 18 NBL, the player may also play for a different club in the Under 18 NBL provided that
that club does not have a senior team in the NBL.
40.7
A club not competing in the Under 18 Regional Leagues may license up to a maximum of 15 players
for the Under 18 Cup.
40.8
A player may transfer to another club in accordance with the normal transfer regulations (See
Regulation 21).
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41.
Eligibility for Under 16 leagues and Under 16 National Cup
41.1
Under 16 Players (U16): ages of players taken at 1 Sept of each season
41.2
Player Eligibility regulations for Under 16 Competitions. There are no restrictions on the number of
EU and Non National players in a team.
41.3
Teams must field a minimum of 8 players.
41.4
A player who is licensed with Basketball England to play for an Under 16 NBL club may also license
with Basketball England to play for a different club in the Senior NBL if his Under 16 club is not
connected to a 'parent' senior club, this is subject to the written approval of both clubs.
41.5
A player who is licensed with Basketball England to play for an Under 16 NBL club which also has a
'parent' senior club in the NBL may only play for that senior club in the NBL.
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41.6
41.7
41.8
Where an Under 16 player is licensed to play in the Senior NBL for a club that does not have a team
in the Under 16 NBL, the player may also play for a different club in the Under 16 NBL provided that
that club does not have a senior team in the NBL.
A club not competing in the Under 16 Regional League may license up to a maximum of 15 players
for the Under 16 Cup.
A player may transfer to another club in accordance with the normal transfer regulations (See
Regulation 21).
42.
Eligibility for Under 15/14/13 leagues
42.1
Under 15/14/13 Players: ages of players taken at 1 Sept of each season.
42.2
Player Eligibility regulations for Under 15/14/13 Competitions. There are no restrictions on the
number of EU and Non National players in a team.
42.3
Teams must field a minimum of 8 players.
42.4
A player who is licensed with Basketball England to play for an Under 15/14/13 NBL club may also
license with Basketball England to play for a different club in the Senior NBL, only if the Under
15/14/13 club is not connected to a 'parent' senior club, this is subject to the written approval of both
clubs.
42.5
A player who is licensed with Basketball England to play for an Under 15/14/13 NBL club which also
has a 'parent' senior club in the NBL may only play for that senior club in the NBL.
42.6
Where a Under 15/14/13 player is licensed to play in the Senior NBL for a club that does not have a
team in the Under 15/14/13 NBL, the player may also play for a different club in the Under 15/14/13
NBL provided that that club does not have a senior team in the NBL.
42.7
In the Under 13 Boys competition a team may register a maximum of 4 female players, providing
there is no provision for the girls in the National Leagues within a reasonable travelling distance.
Prior to a licence being issued in respect of the above, an application must be made to the
Competitions Review Panel outlining the rationale for the request.
42.8
Zone / Combination Defences are not permitted in U13 & U14 competitions. Man to Man Defence is
mandatory.
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43.
Eligibility for National Founder's Cup
43.1
All players in the National Founders Cup are required to be registered directly with Basketball
England, gaining a National Founders Cup Competition Licence and do not become eligible to
participate in any game until the licence has been granted by Basketball England. All regulations
regarding International Clearance will also apply to National, Non-National and EU players.
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The registration deadline is 31 January.
43.2
No team that is a member of the NBL is permitted to participate in the National Founder's Cup.
43.3
Nursery or second teams (See Regulation 43.2) are allowed to enter but no player who has played in
the BBL or NBL in the season in question is permitted to play in the National Founders Cup
Competition, unless their National Competitions licence is revoked prior to 1st November in the
season in question.
43.4
In the event of a valid licence not being produced for a player, coach or team follower, that person is
not permitted to participate in the match in question.
43.5
All team names are subject to approval by Basketball England. The name of the team should contain
an acceptable geographical location. (See Regulation 3.10)
43.6
In the National Founders Cup competition where the Quarter or Semi finals take place over two legs,
the following will apply. The team that forfeits either game shall lose the tie by 'forfeit'.
43.7
An electronic scoreboard and game clock which can be read by players, officials and spectators
throughout the course of the game must be provided. The provision of a 24 Second Shot Clock is
desirable.
43.8
In the National Founders Cup the home club is responsible for the appointment of a licensed,
qualified neutral referee and umpire who must have no connection with the home club. Officials must
be qualified, and the referee and umpire must hold at least the Level 2 award. The fees/expenses
will be paid in accordance with the current Basketball England rates (See Regulation 20.1 & 20.2).
For all end of season Playoff matches a referee and umpire will be appointed by Basketball England.
44.
Authority and copyright
44.1
Notwithstanding the regulations contained herein, the Executive Board, or its nominees, shall be
empowered to make any decisions they deem to be appropriate.
44.2
The copyright to these Regulations is that of Basketball England. Reproduction, adoption, or
adaptation of these Regulations either in part of in whole, without the express permission of
Basketball England, is strictly forbidden.
44.3
Basketball England reserves all rights to the organisation of any formal national club championship
or similar competition.
44.4
These regulations form part of the Regulations of Basketball England as determined by the
Executive Board and should be read in conjunction with the Regulations of Basketball England.
44.5
In these regulations, the term "Basketball England" is understood to mean the Executive Board or its
nominees as defined in the Regulations.