THE SUMMIT LEAGUE
GAME RULES
The Summit League follows FIBA rules, except for the league-specific modifications outlined below. These rules apply during both the regular season and playoffs.
01 PLAYING TIME AND DEVELOPMENT
- The league does not have equal-play or minimum playing-time requirements.
- Teams are encouraged to use a 10-player rotation to support player development.
- Grade 5 (U11) teams are especially encouraged to play at least 10 players. Equal minutes or five-player substitutions are not required.
02 GAME FORMAT
- Four 8-minute quarters
- Two-minute halftime
- Two timeouts per half
- Four total timeouts: three 30-second timeouts and one 60-second timeout
- Teams enter the bonus after six team fouls in each quarter.
03 GENERAL RULES
- A defensive three-second violation will be enforced.
- The five-second closely guarded rule applies only while a player is holding the ball. It does not apply while the player is actively dribbling.
04 GRADE 5 (U11) DEFENSIVE RULES
- Full-court pressing and zone defence are not permitted during the first three quarters.
- Teams may use full-court pressing and zone defence in the fourth quarter.
- Fourth-quarter pressing remains subject to the league’s point-differential rules.
05 PRESSING RULES
- Grade 8 (U14) teams and younger cannot press when leading by 20 points or more. Pressing may resume when the lead falls below 20 points.
- Grade 9 (U15) teams and older cannot press when leading by 30 points or more. Pressing may resume when the lead falls below 30 points.
- These restrictions allow teams to develop their half-court offence and defence instead of relying solely on full-court pressure.
06 RUNNING CLOCK
- The game will move to running time when a team leads by 20 points or more.
07 TECHNICAL FOULS AND EJECTIONS
- Two technical fouls issued to a coach will result in an immediate ejection.
- An ejected coach must leave the building.
- If no eligible assistant coach is available to take over, the team will forfeit the game.
08 SPORTSMANSHIP AND CONDUCT
- Disrespectful behaviour from coaches, players, parents or spectators toward officials, opponents or other participants is strictly prohibited.
- Inappropriate or disruptive behaviour may result in technical fouls or removal from the building.
- Teams and coaches are responsible for the conduct of their parents and supporters.
- Every participating organization is responsible for helping uphold the standards established by The Summit League.
THE SUMMIT STANDARD
COMPETE WITH PURPOSE.
LEAD WITH RESPECT.
The Summit League is committed to providing a positive and competitive environment where young athletes can compete, develop and enjoy the game. We lead with sportsmanship and want to show our future community leaders that they can compete at a high level while respecting others.