The NBA Board of Governors has unanimously decided on a few new changes ahead of the 2018-19 season.
It was on Friday that the association announced that the board approved a few changes that were originally proposed by the NBA Competition Committee nearly a month ago. Beginning at the start of the preseason, organizations and their players will have to adjust to three new stipulations that include the shot clock now being reset to 14 seconds following an offensive rebound, a more simplified clear-path foul rule, and an expansion of the hostile act definition.
Here's what the NBA's press release says:
Shot Clock Reset – The shot clock will reset to 14 seconds in three scenarios: after an offensive rebound of a missed field goal or free throw that hit the rim; after a loose ball foul is called on the defensive team immediately following a missed field goal or free throw that hit the rim; or after the offensive team gets possession of the ball after it goes out of bounds immediately following a missed field goal or free throw that hit the rim.
Simplification of the Clear-Path Foul Rule – The changes to the clear path foul rule establish “bright line” standards based on the position of players at the time of the foul while also narrowing required referee judgment and reducing the number of variables impacting the rule’s application.
Expanded Definition of “Hostile Act” for Replay Purposes – For purposes of triggering instant replay review, the definition of a “hostile act” has been broadened to enable referees to determine the appropriate penalty for players or coaches if they are involved in hostile encounters with each other, referees or fans.
According to Adrian Wojnarowski, the board also approved an increase in retirement benefits for higher-level NBA executives including General Managers, coaches, trainers, and senior executives.
