Olympic basketball is governed by FIBA rules (Fédération Internationale de Basketball), which differ in several ways from NBA rules. If you’re used to watching NBA games, you’ll notice key differences in gameplay, court size, fouls, and more during the Olympic Games.
1. Game Length
Olympic (FIBA): 4 quarters of 10 minutes
NBA: 4 quarters of 12 minutes
Shorter games lead to quicker pace and more strategic possessions.
2. Court Dimensions
Olympic Court: 28 x 15 meters (approximately 91.9 x 49.2 feet)
NBA Court: 94 x 50 feet
The Olympic court is slightly smaller, which tightens gameplay.
3. Three-Point Line
Olympic: 6.75 meters (22.15 feet)
NBA: 23.75 feet (22 feet in corners)
A closer three-point line in the Olympics makes shooting slightly easier.
4. Shot Clock
24 seconds in both NBA and Olympics
14 seconds after an offensive rebound
5. Fouls and Free Throws
5 personal fouls to foul out (Olympics)
6 fouls in the NBA
Bonus after 4 team fouls per quarter (FIBA) — 2 free throws for every foul after that
6. Basket Interference
In FIBA (Olympic) rules, once the ball touches the rim, any player can knock it away or tip it in, unlike the NBA, where this would be goaltending.
7. Timeout Rules
Coaches get 2 timeouts in the first half, 3 in the second half
No timeouts in the last 2 minutes unless granted by officials
No TV/commercial timeouts in Olympic games
8. Roster and Team Rules
Teams have 12 players
Only 5 on the court
Substitutions are unlimited but must be made during stoppages
Olympic vs NBA Basketball Rules: Quick Comparison
| Rule | Olympics (FIBA) | NBA |
|---|---|---|
| Game Duration | 4×10 mins | 4×12 mins |
| Fouls to Foul Out | 5 | 6 |
| Court Size | 91.9 x 49.2 ft | 94 x 50 ft |
| Three-Point Line | 22.15 ft | 23.75 ft |
| Goaltending Rules | Ball live after rim | No touching above rim |
| Team Size | 12 players | 15 players |
These rule differences mean Olympic basketball is:
Faster-paced
More strategic
Less isolation-heavy
More team-oriented, especially with tighter courts and stricter foul limits.
FAQ
Q1: How long is an Olympic basketball game?
40 minutes total (4 quarters of 10 minutes each).
Q2: How many fouls before a player is disqualified?
Five personal fouls result in disqualification.
Q3: Is the Olympic court smaller than the NBA?
Yes, it’s slightly shorter and narrower.
Q4: Can players touch the ball on the rim?
Yes, once it touches the rim, players can tip or block it.
Q5: How many players are on an Olympic basketball team?
Each team has 12 players, with 5 on the court at a time.