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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/bball-technical-foul

What is a technical foul usually called for?

Unsportsmanlike conduct or procedural violations can draw a technical foul.

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  1. Excessive contact on a layup
  2. Missing a shot badly
  3. Unsportsmanlike conduct or procedural violations ✔

Why: Technical fouls usually cover noncontact conduct or procedural violations, such as disrespecting an official, delay of game or hanging on the rim.

Huh, didn't know that: In the NBA, a player must be ejected after two unsportsmanlike technical fouls.

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The ref gave me a technical for hanging on the rim. I thought it was off the hook.
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References

Answer: Unsportsmanlike conduct or procedural violations. Technical fouls usually cover noncontact conduct or procedural violations, such as disrespecting an official, delay of game or hanging on the rim.

  1. NBA Official Rules, Rule 4: Definitions official.nba.com/rule-no-4-definitions
    A technical foul is the penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct or violations by team members on the floor or seated on the bench.
    Checked 2026-10-12.
  2. NBA Official Rules, Rule 12: Fouls and Penalties official.nba.com/rule-no-12-fouls-and-penalties
    A technical foul cannot be assessed for physical contact when the ball is alive. EXCEPTION: Fighting fouls and/or taunting with physical contact.
    Checked 2026-10-12.
  3. NBA Official Rules, Rule 12: Fouls and Penalties official.nba.com/rule-no-12-fouls-and-penalties
    they must be ejected for committing two unsportsmanlike acts.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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