Exciting Rule Changes Approved to Boost Game Flow in Men’s Basketball – NCAA.org

The NCAA is making some interesting changes to men’s basketball rules for the 2025-26 season. These updates aim to speed up the game and improve its overall flow.

One of the biggest changes is the introduction of a coach’s challenge. Coaches can now request a review at any time to examine out-of-bounds calls, basket interference, and more. However, teams will need to use a timeout to issue this challenge. If successful, they get one more chance to challenge another call later in the game, even during overtime. If the first attempt fails, they lose the right to challenge further.

Officials will also have the power to review certain calls in the last two minutes of the game. This includes basket interference and restricted area plays. According to recent statistics, these video reviews have not caused significant delays in game time, so the NCAA expects the new rules will enhance game flow.

In addition, officials are encouraged to focus on reducing delays and improving efficiency. They will receive specific instructions to limit time spent reviewing calls and to decrease physicality during gameplay. This is a part of a broader effort to create a smoother experience for players and fans alike.

Another change involves a tweak to the continuous motion rule. Now, if an offensive player drives toward the basket and is contacted, they can still finish their shot, pivot, or take a step despite the contact. This change may increase scoring opportunities and make the game more exciting.

Historically, basketball has evolved significantly. The idea of switching from halves to quarters is being considered, similar to other leagues like the WNBA and international play. While some hurdles remain—like managing commercial breaks—this could bring a fresh pace to the game.

Other rule adjustments include allowing officials to call a Flagrant 1 foul for groin contact. This provides more options for referees to handle different situations on the court. Also, if a player uses the rim to gain an advantage, it will be considered basket interference. These changes show a shift toward prioritizing player safety and fair play.

As fans eagerly await the new season, they’ll be watching how these rules play out on the court. The NCAA’s continued focus on game improvement and player experience is a promising direction for the sport. For more on NCAA rules and updates, you can visit the NCAA’s official page.



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