What is a Carry in Basketball?

Carrying in basketball is a common rule violation. As stated in the NBA rulebook, a player may only dribble with their hands on top of the basketball. The moment their hand goes under the ball and continues to dribble – it is a violation. 

The official definition from the NBA rulebook: Rule NO. 10: (Section II, point d.) 

“A player who is dribbling may not put any part of his hand under the ball and 

(1) carry it from one point to another or 

(2) bring it to a pause and then continue to dribble again”.

A penalty for carrying the ball is a possession resulting in a turnover.

Why Is Carrying a Violation in Basketball? 

Carrying is a violation in basketball because it helps a player who carries moves in ways and directions that are unnatural for the sport and rules, making it unfair and nearly impossible for the opponent who would try and defend against that play. 

Making it a violation keeps the player’s hands always on top of the basketball, giving the opponent a fair chance in defense.

Read Next: What is FG in Basketball?