What is a "held ball" in basketball?

A "held ball" occurs when two players have simultaneous possession of the basketball, making it impossible for either to gain control. This situation is recognized by the officials and typically leads to a jump ball or the possession arrow being used to determine which team will receive the ball next.

This definition aligns perfectly with the understanding of player possession in the game. It’s important for players to know this rule, as it affects how they may approach the physical contest for the ball.

The other scenarios provided do not accurately define a "held ball." For example, the event of the ball going out of bounds or a player taking more than two steps refers to violations of the rules that have different implications in the game. Similarly, a foul committed while reaching for the ball involves a breach of conduct rather than a situation of simultaneous possession. Understanding the specific mechanics of a held ball is crucial for players, coaches, and officials as it directly influences gameplay decisions and outcomes.