Official Shedball Rulebook

Introduction to Shedball

Shedball is a dynamic, two-on-two mini basketball game played on a half-court, blending traditional basketball rules with unique elements. The game is underscored by the “Shedball Mystique,” a spirit of intense competition, sportsmanship, and humor. This mystique is akin to the attitudes of the Dude Perfect team and the McNeal brothers, creators of Gus Macker, symbolizing a balance of earnest play and lightheartedness.

Section 1: Team Composition and Gameplay
Teams and Substitutions:
  • Each team consists of two players actively playing on the court.
  • Teams may have a third player as a substitute.
  • Substitutions are allowed during any dead ball situation. Note: Made baskets do not count as dead balls.
Section 2: Game Duration and Scoring
Game Length and Scoring Method:
  • Scoring follows traditional basketball: 2-point field goals, 3-point field goals, and 1-point free throws.
    • After the first team scores the 10th point, it triggers a 10 second game clock. This period has a 7 second shot clock.
    • It is important to note that the clock is not officially tied to actual seconds… the countdown is closer to the speed that you would count down while playing out a last second shot in your driveway. See the rules explainer video for more clarification on the clock.
  • In overtime, there is a 10 second game clock and a 7 second shot clock just like the last part of regulation.
Section 3: Starting the Game
Commencing Play:
  • Starting possession is determined by a coin toss during regular season and pool play, and awarded to the higher seed in playoff games.
Section 4: Fouls, Violations, and Gameplay Rules
Fouls and Bonus:
  • Player Control Fouls: Fouls committed by the player with the ball (e.g., charging) do not result in free throws.
  • Non-Player Control Fouls: All other fouls result in free throws.
  • Single Bonus: Teams start in a single bonus, where non-player control fouls lead to a 1-and-1 free throw situation.
  • Double Bonus: Upon the 3rd team foul, the double bonus is triggered, granting 2 free throws for non-player control fouls.
  • Free Throws: Lane assignments mimic basketball with non-shooting team holding inside position. Rebounders and shooter must wait until the ball hits the rim to leave their assigned places.
Gameplay Violations:
  • Force Downs: Shots with a completely downward trajectory are prohibited. Points from such shots are negated, and possession changes.
  • Basket Interference: Any contact with the rim is penalized with one free throw for the opposing team and a change of possession.
  • Goaltending and Traveling: Both goaltending and traveling are illegal. Players must adhere to standard dribbling and pivot foot rules.
  • No Three-Second/Backcourt Violations: Players can stay in the lane without time restriction.
Use of Walls and Ceiling:
  • The back wall is used to take the ball back into play.
  • Players may use any wall or the ceiling to pass the ball to themselves or teammates, either to renew dribble or to facilitate a pass.
Section 5: Timeouts and Overtime
Timeouts and Overtime Rules:
  • Each team is allowed one timeout per game, resetting to one in overtime.
  • In overtime, there is a 10 second game clock and a 7 second shot clock just like the last part of regulation.
Section 6: Equipment and Court Play
Apparel and Court Features:
  • Players are encouraged to wear team-coordinated colors. Official jerseys may be introduced in the future.
  • The court’s unique features, like walls and ceilings, play an integral role in the game.
Section 7: Player Conduct
Embodying the Shedball Mystique:
  • Players are expected to embody a balance of competitive intensity and lightheartedness, maintaining composure and sportsmanship. Dramatization of disputes is part of the game’s charm but should not lead to loss of temper.
Section 8: Tournament Structure
Specific Tournament Format – Shedball the Ice Bowl:
  • The tournament will consist of a 3-game regular season, followed by a 4-team single-elimination tournament.
Section 9: Inbounding After Made Baskets
Process After Scoring:
  • After a made basket, the team that was scored on retrieves the ball to start the new possession by throwing it against the back wall.
  • The scoring team can defend the inbounds pass but must not touch the ball before it hits the back wall.
  • Touching the ball before it hits the back wall by the defending team results in a free throw for the inbounding team, followed by possession.
Section 10: Safety
Safety Guidelines:
  • Players should focus on safety, avoiding dangerous plays and prioritizing injury prevention.
Section 11: Dispute Resolution
Handling Disputes:
  • In case of significant disputes over play results or calls, the disputed possession should be replayed.