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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/bball-possession-arrow

In college and FIBA games, what shows which team gets the ball on the next jump ball situation?

The alternating possession arrow.

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  1. The possession arrow ✔
  2. The shot clock
  3. The team foul marker

Why: For held balls and most other jump ball situations, college and FIBA games use alternating-possession throw-ins. The arrow shows whose turn it is. NCAA overtime still begins with a jump ball.

Huh, didn't know that: The NBA still uses jump balls for held balls.

The dad joke
Why did the possession arrow never get lost? It always knew which way to go.
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References

Answer: The possession arrow. For held balls and most other jump ball situations, college and FIBA games use alternating-possession throw-ins. The arrow shows whose turn it is. NCAA overtime still begins with a jump ball.

  1. FIBA Official Basketball Rules 2026 assets.fiba.basketball/image/upload/documents-corporate-fiba-official-rules-2026-v1-1.pdf
    The team entitled to the alternating possession throw-in shall be indicated by the alternating possession arrow
    Checked 2026-10-12.
  2. NCAA Men's Basketball Rules Book ncaaorg.s3.amazonaws.com/championships/sports/basketball/rules/men/PRMBB_RulesBook.pdf
    The team to be awarded the ball for the alternating-possession throw-in shall be indicated by the alternating-possession arrow.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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