Junior NBL rules
Some Junior National League rules change depending on age group and level. Each team page shows which apply to that team.
All rules
Man-to-man defence only
No zone defences — every player guards an opponent. It helps young players learn proper defensive skills.
U12 · U14 · U16 Regional
Read the full rule →Man-to-man in quarters 2 & 4
Teams can use a zone defence in the 1st and 3rd quarters, but must play man-to-man in the 2nd and 4th.
U16 & U18 Conference
Read the full rule →No full-court press when 20+ ahead
Once a team is winning by 20 points or more, it must stop pressing the other team full court.
U12 · U14 Conference & Regional · U16 Conference & Regional
Read the full rule →All Must Play
The 1st and 3rd quarters are split into two 5-minute halves so every player gets time on court.
U12 · U14 Conference & Regional · U16 Regional
Read the full rule →Size 5 ball
Games use a size 5 ball — smaller and lighter, to suit younger players.
U12 · U14 Girls
Read the full rule →