IBA to adopt new NBA rules

by IBA Press Release
Published on May 9, 2001 under International Basketball Association (IBA)

IBA Press Release

Des Moines, IA - The International Basketball Association announced today that it will continue to adhere to NBA rules, including the recent changes implemented by the NBA. For the past six seasons, the IBA has practiced the NBA rules.

"We have always practiced NBA rules, and we will continue to do so," said IBA Executive Director Al Lorenzen. "We want our players to have a chance to play in the NBA at some point, utilizing NBA rules gives them a better opportunity to learn the NBA style."

Since 1995, nine IBA players have gone on to play in the NBA. Most notable are Garth Joseph (Toronto Raptors), Art Long (Sacramento Kings), Damon Jones (Vancouver Grizzles) and Ira Newble (San Antonio Spurs) all of whom played in the NBA this season.

Changes include:

• Current illegal defensive guidelines will be eliminated.
• A defensive 3-second rule will be established, limiting the amount of time a defensive player may stand in the lane when he is not closely guarding anyone.
• Reducing the backcourt count from 10 second to eight seconds.
• Redefining what constitutes a foul to allow for brief contact initiated by a defensive player.

These rules will be implemented for the IBA's upcoming seventh season, which will begin in November 2001.

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• IBA to adopt new NBA rules - OSC Original by IBA Press Release

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