When do I start and stop the game clock?

Start the game clock when:

• during a jump ball, the ball is legally tapped by a jumper;
• after an unsuccessful last free throw where the ball stays live, the ball touches or is touched by a player on the court;
• during a throw-in, the ball touches or is legally touched by a player on the court.

Stop the game clock when:

• time expires at the end of a quarter or overtime (if the clock does not stop automatically);
• a referee blows the whistle while the ball is live;
• a goal is scored against a team that has requested a time-out;
• a goal is scored when the clock shows 2:00 or less in the fourth quarter or in an overtime;
• the shot clock signal sounds while a team is in control of the ball (including when a referee then calls a violation).