Which of the following statements about the closely-guarded rule is accurate?

The closely-guarded rule in basketball is designed to encourage offensive play by requiring defenders to actively engage the player with the ball. The accurate statement is that the defender must be within arm's reach of the player with the ball. This means that the defender is close enough to challenge the shooter effectively, which is typically interpreted as being within six feet.

This rule is significant because it emphasizes the need for the defender to exert pressure on the offensive player, promoting a dynamic flow of the game. If a defender is not close enough, the offensive player may have a greater opportunity to shoot or make a play without that pressure.

When measuring the defender's proximity, it is not based on the distance from the player's feet, the area behind the basket, or whether contact is made. These factors do not influence whether a player is considered closely guarded. The focus is solely on the ability of the defender to contest the shot or pass, which is effectively defined by being within arm's reach.