A “hand check” in basketball refers to a defensive tactic where a defender uses their hands or arms to make physical contact with an offensive player, typically to impede their movement or disrupt their dribble. This can involve placing a hand or forearm on the ball handler’s body, pushing them off balance, or slowing their progress.
In the past, hand checking was more common and often used to disrupt a player’s offensive rhythm, especially when defending one-on-one. However, over time, the NBA and other basketball leagues have implemented rules to limit or penalize hand checking in order to promote a faster, more free-flowing game. A defender is not allowed to maintain continuous contact with an offensive player, especially when the offensive player is trying to move or create space. If the referee determines the hand check is excessive or illegal, it can result in a personal foul.
