Basketball Rules Explained: Game Duration, Players, Time-Outs and Officials

Basketball games are played in four quarters under FIBA and NBA rules, although quarter length varies by competition. FIBA games have 10-minute quarters, while NBA games have 12-minute quarters. Overtime usually lasts five minutes. Each team has five players on the court, with unlimited substitutions when play is stopped. Teams switch baskets after half-time, and the game clock stops during breaks in play, so a match often lasts about two hours in real time. Coaches may call time-outs to give instructions. Officials manage the game, while table officials record scores, fouls, substitutions, possession and the shot clock.

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