KHSAA to eliminate jump balls, use coin flips for 2020-21 HS basketball season

To help combat the spread of the coronavirus, the KHSAA is eliminating the jump ball and will instead use a coin toss to determine the first possession of the game. Seriously. According to the updated 2020-21 handbook regarding a return to competition for winter sports, the elimination of the opening tip and implementation of the coin toss was included among several new protocols and procedures for the upcoming season.

OFFICIATING (RULES) (ADOPTED FOR 2020-21)

• Eliminate the jump ball and award the choice of first possession of the ball to the team winning a coin toss, called by the home team.

• The alternating possession arrow will then reset by rule when the initial throw-in is complete.

• To start an overtime period, use a coin toss, called by the visiting team, to determine which team is awarded the ball.

• Subsequent overtime periods will be started with possession by the team based on the alternating possession arrow

Mind you, the opening tip comes before 32 straight minutes of battles in the post, defense, boxouts, and diving for loose balls. Beyond the new coin flip rule, here are some of the other updated protocols required for the upcoming season: ADMINISTRATIVE AND FIELD/COURT SETUP

• Suspend pregame protocol of shaking hands during introductions.
• Suspend postgame protocol of shaking hands.
• Before, during, and after the contest, players, coaches, game officials, team personnel, and game administration officials should wash and sanitize their hands as often as possible.
• Maintain social distancing of 6 feet at all times while on the sidelines and on the field of play when possible.
• Everyone should have their drink container that is not shared.
• Cloth face coverings are permissible for all coaches and team staff and all game administration officials.
• Gloves are permissible for all coaches and team staff and all game administration officials.
• Suspend the pregame introduction handshakes, fist bumps, bro hugs, etc.
• Suspend post-game protocol of handshakes, fist bumps, bro hugs, etc.

BASKETBALLS AND BASKETBALL CLEANING

• The host school should ensure that the ball is sanitized during time-outs and between quarters. (REQUIRED)
• Separate baskets/racks of balls for warm-ups (one basket/rack used by the home team and one basket/rack used by the visiting team). (CONSIDER)
• The ball may be switched as often as can efficiently allow for sanitization and return, up to and including changing balls each play.
• There should be an attempt to keep at least three good game balls always available, one in play, one being cleaned, and one ready for the next play.

For the complete list of new protocols and procedures for the 2020-21 season, read the official KHSAA handbook here.