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Traveling in Basketball - The Ultimate Guide to the Rule

Author: pratik ghadge.

Traveling in basketball is a term that often sparks debates and confusion among enthusiasts and players alike. While many believe they have a clear understanding of what constitutes a travel, misconceptions still persist.

From the intricacies of footwork to the nuances of specific moves like the euro step and the step through, the realm of traveling in basketball is riddled with grey areas. This guide aims to demystify these ambiguities, shedding light on the true essence of the rule and the controversies that surround it.

What is Traveling in Basketball?

Traveling in basketball is one of the most discussed and often misunderstood rules in the game. At its core, traveling is defined as the illegal movement of one or both feet while a player is in possession of the ball. This violation is most commonly observed when a player takes more than the allowed number of steps without dribbling the ball.

In simpler terms, once a player has established a pivot foot, they cannot move it until they have released the ball, either by passing, shooting, or dribbling. If a player takes more than two steps without dribbling, it's considered a travel. This rule is consistent across various basketball leagues, though the interpretation might vary slightly. For instance, FIBA, the International Basketball Federation, has its own set of rules for traveling, which are often referenced in video tutorials and coaching sessions to provide clarity on the subject.

The Pivot Foot

The pivot foot plays a crucial role in the game of basketball, especially when it comes to understanding the traveling rule. Once a player stops dribbling and holds the ball, one foot becomes the "pivot foot." This foot must remain stationary until the player passes, shoots, or restarts their dribble.

The importance of the pivot foot cannot be overstated. It allows players to change direction, protect the ball, and create space from defenders. However, there are strict rules regarding its movement. Players can rotate or spin using their pivot foot, but it must remain in contact with the same spot on the floor. Lifting the pivot foot and then returning it to the floor without releasing the ball is a violation.

Understanding and mastering the use of the pivot foot is crucial in ISO basketball strategy . It not only aids in sidestepping traveling violations but also equips players with the agility to navigate around defenders, paving the way for scoring opportunities.

Why is Traveling Illegal?

The primary rationale behind the traveling rule is to maintain fairness in the game and ensure that no player gains an undue advantage. If players were allowed to move freely with the ball without dribbling, it would be nearly impossible for defenders to guard them. The essence of basketball lies in the balance between offense and defense, and the traveling rule ensures this balance is maintained.

Traveling is not the only rule designed to uphold this balance. Other violations, such as the double dribble (where a player stops dribbling and then starts again) and the back-court violation (where the offensive team returns the ball to the backcourt after advancing it), are in place to ensure that the game remains competitive and fair.

Penalties for Traveling

Traveling violations in basketball can disrupt the flow of the game and potentially change its outcome. When a player is called for traveling, they have essentially committed a turnover, handing possession of the ball to the opposing team. The immediate consequence is the stoppage of play, and the ball is awarded to the opposing team at the nearest out-of-bounds location.

The penalties for traveling play a significant role in shaping basketball's defensive strategy . Depending on the level of play, the repercussions differ. In college basketball, the defense, capitalizing on this strategic advantage, is awarded the ball and inbounds it from the closest sideline or baseline to where the infraction took place. Conversely, in the NBA, the ball is inbounded between the extended free-throw line and the baseline. Such variations underscore the importance for players and coaches to familiarize themselves with the distinct regulations of their respective leagues.

Other Examples of a Traveling Violation

While taking more than two steps without dribbling is the most commonly recognized form of traveling, there are several other actions that can result in this violation:

• Incorrect Use of the Pivot Foot : Once a pivot foot is established, it cannot be lifted and returned to the floor unless the ball has been released.
• Rolling on the Floor : If a player, while in possession of the ball, rolls over on the floor, it's considered traveling.
• Jumping While in Possession : Players who jump and then land without releasing the ball commit a traveling violation.
• Passing to Oneself : If a player throws the ball into the air and catches it without anyone else touching it, it's a travel.
• Falling Down Without a Foul : If a player falls to the ground without being fouled, and their pivot foot shifts, it's considered traveling.
• Sliding the Pivot Foot : Even slight movements or drags of the pivot foot can result in a traveling call.
• Stepping Before Dribbling : The ball must touch the floor before the pivot foot is lifted when initiating a dribble.
• Attempting to Get Up Without Dribbling : A player on the floor must dribble the ball if they attempt to stand up with it.
• Shuffling of the Feet : Any unnecessary movement or "shuffling" of the feet when receiving the ball can be deemed as traveling.

Enforcement of Traveling Rules

The fast-paced nature of basketball makes it challenging for referees to catch every traveling violation. This difficulty is especially pronounced in professional leagues like the NBA, where the speed and athleticism of players can make violations harder to spot.

Critics often argue that the NBA is lenient with traveling calls, especially with star players. However, it's essential to note that the NBA's definition of traveling, particularly concerning the "gather step," differs slightly from other leagues. Regardless of the league, referees play a crucial role in ensuring the game's integrity by making accurate and consistent calls.

Teaching Players to Avoid Traveling

For budding basketball players, understanding the nuances of traveling can be daunting. Common mistakes include shuffling feet upon receiving the ball or changing the pivot foot inadvertently. Coaches play a pivotal role in educating players about these rules.

Regular drills focusing on footwork, dribbling, and pivoting can help players internalize the rules and reduce traveling violations. Emphasizing the importance of a strong foundation in these basics ensures that players develop good habits early on, leading to fewer mistakes as they progress in their basketball journey.

You may also like :  Everything You Need to Know About Suicides in Basketball

Final Thoughts

In basketball, understanding the intricacies of traveling is paramount for both players and enthusiasts. From the basics of the pivot foot to the enforcement by referees, this guide sheds light on the complexities of the rule. By grasping these nuances, players can enhance their gameplay and appreciate the sport's depth even more.

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1-2 Step vs. the Hop: Which Basketball Shot Technique Is Better for You?

A jump shot starts way before the arms are even involved. It all begins with your lower body; your feet and legs need to be set and ready to start the upward motion of your shot.

Ray Allen, one of the greatest shooters in the history of basketball, told NBA TV , “Shooting, for me, is not about my upper body. It’s really about my lower body. So when I’m shooting the ball like I need to, I jump and it’s one motion.”

Basketball players are almost universally taught, at an early age, that stepping into your shot one foot at a time, or a “1-2 step,” is the proper way to use your lower body in setting up a catch-and-shoot jump shot.

The 1-2 step is the traditional and still most widely used footwork for shooting, however, some players at higher levels will utilize “the hop” instead of the 1-2 step, at times, to get their feet set for their shot. Many great shooters in the NBA, from Kevin Durant to Bradley Beal to JJ Redick, will use the hop to get into their shot depending on the situation.

Let’s break down both of these techniques to see which one might benefit you best, and illustrate how to perform the hop should you want to give it a chance.

For right-handed shooters ,  when using the 1-2 step, you will step with your left foot first, and after that foot is planted you will simultaneously catch the ball and step with your right foot to align your feet (either square to the basket or angled to the left or right). Left handed shooters will use the right foot first and then follow with the left.

If you are spotting up, or catching and shooting from a standstill, you can start with your first foot already planted. The shot will then only require one step into your alignment, catch and shoot, and will thus be quicker.

On the move, the 1-2 step will require you to set up your feet as you move to the desired spot so that the proper first foot is down on the catch, then turning your body to face the basket and into your shot as the ball is caught. To get into the 1-2 step on the move you may have to alter your stride as you run.

After the catch

Once the ball is caught after a 1-2 step, if you decide not to shoot, you can only jab step or begin a drive with the second foot that was used to step into the shot, once the ball was caught.  

Your decision to either shoot, drive or pass will be made as you are stepping into your shot and reading the defense.

To use the hop, you will start by jumping just 2 to 3 inches off the ground once the pass is thrown and the ball is in the air. While you are briefly in the air you will catch the ball and align your hips and feet for your shot, so the hop, catch and alignment will take place all in one motion. You will land on the balls of your feet and quickly spring back up for your jump shot.

If you are spotting up with the hop, you can start with your feet in whatever stance is comfortable for you—square, staggered or angled. You will hop off of both feet, catch, align, land and shoot.

On the move you can be ready to hop and shoot at any time because as you move you can get into your hop by jumping off of either foot and quickly turning in the air to align your body. When running, shuffling or backpedaling into a shot, as the ball comes toward you, you will start your hop with whichever foot is currently planted. Then jump off of one foot, catch, align with the basket and land on two feet before shooting.

(It maybe be more comfortable to always start your hop with a certain foot when you are on the move, and in this case you will have to set up your steps similar to a 1-2 step.)

Once the ball is caught after a hop, you can attack the defense with either foot because landing on two feet does not establish a pivot foot. So you can jab or begin a drive with either foot.

Your decision to either shoot, drive or pass must be made quickly as you are in the air, catching the ball and reading the defense.

Which is better?

Changing your footwork from the 1-2 to the hop is not going to drastically change your shot accuracy by itself. If you have been taught to use the 1-2 step and are considering adding the hop to your game, there are three main aspects of your shot you will want to consider when examining if the hop helps you or not. So as you are trying out the hop you should be asking yourself about:

• Speed:  Does using the hop compared to the 1-2 get my shot off quicker? Is my shot released faster from the time the ball is caught?
• Balance:  Does quickly landing on the balls of my feet give me more or less balance when compared to stepping into my shot, one foot at a time? Do I feel like my weight is distributed equally and I am jumping straight?
• Rhythm:  Does the hop give me more rhythm? Does hopping into my shot give my entire shooting motion more flow from my feet to my release point?

The video below makes the case for the hop but does a good job or comparing the two methods and providing visual examples of how both are done.

These questions should help you determine if using the hop would be good for you. You can obviously use either the 1,2 step or the hop exclusively or a combination of both depending on the situation of the game. What is most important is what makes your shooting motion the most comfortable and how it affects your shot.

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Phonological Awareness: Everything You Need to Know

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Basketball is a game that requires agility, quick thinking, and strategy. One essential skill to help you gain advantages on the court is mastering the hop step. The basketball hop step is a deceptive move that can leave your defender guessing and create opportunities for scoring. In this article, we will break down the steps to perfecting your hop step technique.

Step 1: Understand the purpose of the hop step

The hop step is designed to change direction quickly, fake out defenders, and create an opportunity to shoot or pass. This move requires exceptional footwork, balance, and timing, so understanding its purpose is crucial before attempting it on the court.

Step 2: Position yourself correctly

Before executing the hop step, you must be at least a few steps away from your defender. Create space by moving forward or taking a slight step back while maintaining eye contact with your defender.

Step 3: Initiate the hop step

As you approach the defender, take a short stride with your lead foot (the foot opposite your shooting hand). Simultaneously, plant your back foot (the one on your shooting side) firmly on the ground while keeping it slightly behind and parallel with your lead foot.

Step 4: Execute the jump

Leap off both feet by pushing through your toes, driving your knees upward, and landing on both feet simultaneously. Keep your body low during this phase for better control and make sure to land in a balanced stance with feet shoulder-width apart. The leap should be lateral (sideways) or diagonal in direction.

Step 5: Sell the fake

The essential element of a successful hop step is convincing your defender that you’re going one way before breaking off in another direction. As you land from the leap, pivot on your lead foot while swinging your back foot around in a smooth motion. Sell the fake by looking and pointing in the direction you want your defender to think you’re going.

Step 6: Accelerate past your defender

Once you have successfully executed the fake, push off your lead foot and explode past your defender. Leave them guessing and create enough space to make an easy pass, drive to the basket, or pull up for a jump shot. Practice makes perfect

Mastering the hop step takes time and repetition. Incorporate this move into your practice sessions and be patient with yourself as you work on perfecting it. With dedication, proper execution, and understanding of the mechanics, you’ll be leaving defenders in the dust in no time.

In conclusion, the hop step is a valuable tool in any basketball player’s arsenal. Understanding its purpose, positioning yourself correctly, initiating the hop step, selling the fake, and accelerating past defenders are keys to executing this move effectively. Keep practicing and watch as you become a more versatile and unstoppable player on the court.

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The Importance of the Hop Step

The hop step was the euro step of 2004, meaning how popular the euro step has become, the hop step trended the same way. Kids were practicing it at every park and every gym trying to be the first to use it amongst their friends. A move that has been around for awhile, some also call it a pro hop or a jump stop, made its wave throughout the world in a more creative way.

The move became really popular when NBA Live 2004 added it to their realm of moves along with the new control layout that included freestyle dribbling. A big improvement towards trying to make the game more realistic, gamers enjoyed the new additions. Although personally, I remember the hop step giving the offensive player way too much of an advantage because it made it way too easy to score in that game.

The hop step is a lethal move if used correctly. It’s mainly used when trying to split two defenders on the way to the basket or in other instances just to gain a base for liftoff when driving. What makes it a great move is the options you have once the move is performed. You can either hop step and go straight up or when you feel that defender on your hip, you can hop step, pump fake and get the defender in the air and step through to go up to the basket.

The move has gained some controversy in past years because many players started doing it wrong. When executing the move, it’s a must that you land on two feet simultaneously or else it is deemed a travel. Due to so much confusion when it’s considered a travel and when it’s not, NBA Head of Referees Joe Borgia gave his insight on when this movie is a violation.

Many guys in the league have adopted this move today and we see it from players like LeBron James and Derrick Rose. However, Jamaal Crawford may be one of the craftiest at the move as he puts the ball behind his back making his defender look silly. We all know he’s a wizard with the ball but when he’s coming at you full speed and hits you with his “shake and bake”, there is nothing you can do. The hop step really puts the offensive player in a great position to score and it’s a move that all players looking to be a top scorer should master.

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Why aren't hop steps and euro steps considered traveling

This is a discussion on Why aren't hop steps and euro steps considered traveling within the Pro Basketball forums.

Traveling Rule in NBA

By Andrew D

June 08, 2022

Ok then. For the uninitiated, a  traveling violation  is one of the first rules that most people are taught when they start playing basketball.

The reasoning behind the rule is simple. It is to encourage (force) players to control the ball as they move through dribbling. This prevents it from simply being held and carried. If there was no impetus to release the ball, either by passing or dribbling, then steals would be virtually impossible.

WHAT CONSTITUTES A TRAVEL VIOLATION?

A travel violation occurs when a player takes more than two steps without dribbling the ball.

It should be as simple as that. It isn’t, of course, but that is the most basic premise behind the rule. The confusion sets in when deciding at what point the player is deemed to be in control of the ball. But more of that later.

Any player can move independently with the ball as long as they continue to dribble it. If that player comes to a complete stop then they may pivot on either foot and lift the other in order to spin around and look for a passing opportunity.

Referees have ultimate discretion in how strictly they enforce the 2-step rule.

The flow of the game is better if they aren’t constantly calling travel fouls. Provided they are equally lenient to both teams then there is no real harm done. Not an ideal situation, certainly, but one that has long been accepted for the betterment of the game and viewing experience.

If teams blatantly take advantage of any leniency on the part of the referee then they will call more traveling violations and nip it in the bud.

HOW DO NBA REFEREES DECIDE WHEN TO MAKE A TRAVELING CALL?

It might seem counter-intuitive to have rule variations between different levels and administrative bodies of the same sport but that is exactly the situation in basketball.

That being said, the rules are very similar and generally work like this:

If a player receives a pass whilst they are moving then they may take one step to “gather” the ball. Gathering is any time that a player takes control of a loose ball. This might be in the process of a pass, bounce, or rebound. While gathering the ball, the player can touch the ball with both hands and take a single step. This step does not count towards their permitted 2 and is sometimes called the “zero step”. Dribbling must then commence once a further 2 steps have been taken or the ball must be passed or shot.

After  gathering  the ball, the player can take a first and second step before attempting a field goal or relinquishing possession.

This is where recent debates and misunderstandings find their most contentious ground. What exactly constitutes a gather?

A gather is defined by the NBA rule book as follows:

Definition of the gather

The following definition of the gather will be added to the definitions section of the playing rules:

For a player who receives a pass or gains possession of a loose ball, the gather is defined as the point where the player gains enough control of the ball to hold it, change hands, pass, shoot, or cradle it against his body.

For a player who is in control of the ball while dribbling, the gather is defined as the point where a player does any one of the following:

Puts two hands on the ball, or otherwise permits the ball to come to rest, while he is in control of it;

Puts a hand under the ball and brings it to a pause; or

Otherwise gains enough control of the ball to hold it, change hands, pass, shoot, or cradle it against his body.

So it seems reasonably clear. Although it’s one thing to look at a definition of something and understand it. It is quite another to judge it happening at full speed in a rapid, hectic sporting context.

The NBA rule book also clearly dictates who is permitted to touch the ball after an unsuccessful field goal attempt.

The player who shoots the ball and misses cannot be the first one to touch the ball  if  it fails to touch the hoop, backboard, or another player. This is known as an “airball” and means that the player can be called for a traveling violation.

HOW WILL THE GATHER STEP RULE BE INCORPORATED INTO THE TRAVELING RULES?

Now that a set definition of the gather has been established, it is necessary to describe how it will be incorporated into the existing rule book with regards to a travel violation. The NBA does this as follows:

Incorporating the Gather into the Traveling Rule

The gather will be expressly incorporated into the traveling rule to clarify how many steps a player may take after he receives the ball while progressing or completes his dribble:

A player who gathers the ball while progressing may (a) take two steps in coming to a stop, passing or shooting the ball or (b) if he has not yet dribbled, one step prior to releasing the ball to start his dribble.

A player who gathers the ball while dribbling may take two steps in coming to a stop, passing or shooting the ball.

The first step occurs when a foot, or both feet, touch the floor after the player gathers the ball.

(Image credit: chensiyuan) https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Vince_carter_magic_v_raptors.jpg

WHAT IS THE PENALTY FOR TRAVELING?

Again, the NFHS and NCAA have different penalties for traveling than the NBA. In those leagues, traveling infractions concede a dead-ball foul. This means that the opposing team gets possession and returns the ball to play from the nearest out of bounds point to where the foul happened.

In the NBA, the opposing team simply gets the ball wherever the foul happened on the court. The only caveat is that they cannot receive the ball any closer to the net than the free-throw line.

MAKING THE MOST OF THE SITUATION

James Harden is routinely cited as a perfect example of how certain referees are being lenient when it comes to traveling violations. NBA referees are regarding traveling calls. His particular technique of coming to a jump-stop inside the 3-point line and then taking a step or two backward has even been given a nickname. The “Harden step-back”.

But is Harden actually breaking the rules and getting away with it? Or just taking full advantage of the letter of the law?

Here in  The Jump Hub  office, we’ve heard both sides of this argument…

We’ve been convinced both ways at one time or another. Regardless of our personal opinions, here is what we actually believe is happening and why Harden is allowed to persist with this behavior unchecked.

It all comes down to that definition of the gather. When Harden performs his European-style layups and shots on the dribble he consistently takes what looks at first glance to be an illegal step. However, the NBA’s own definition and incorporation of that definition into the existing traveling rules make it clear that he’s not committing fouls.

It’s not a move that Harden himself invented. He’s just one of the NBA players to make the best use of it. He capitalizes on what is seen by some as a slight misnomer of the game.

MORE WAYS TO COMMIT A TRAVELING VIOLATION

Taking more than two steps is not the only way to travel, let’s look at what else is considered a travel.

So from what we have looked at so far, we can confidently say that taking 3 steps, after the gather, is a travel violation. But there are other ways for this infraction to be called.

We briefly discussed the importance of the pivoting foot earlier. This is the foot that remains planted as the other is lifted and the player spins after landing at the end of a dribble. If the player picks up that pivot foot then it counts as a traveling foul.

If a player lands one-footed at the end of a dribble then that same foot may not be the next one to land. This is known as “hop travel”

Here is a list including the most obvious examples of traveling:

Taking more than two steps without a dribble or motion to shoot.

Picking up the pivot foot.

A player may only pivot from the first foot that lands otherwise traveling may be called. Switching pivot feet is not allowed.

When standing still, a player may not take a step without a dribble before the pivot foot is released.

A player catching their own airball is considered a travel. The ball must hit the backboard, rim, or touch another player.

It is considered traveling to jump up and down with the ball. The player must release the ball on the way up, and catch it again on the way down.

Players may not take two steps after a jump stop.

If a player trips and falls down on the court, they may not slide, roll, or move on the floor with the ball.

Players may not pass the ball to themselves via a rebound off the backboard. Only within the motion of a layup or slam dunk.

This YouTube video gives a really good, clear explanation of the situation. It shows why so many fans and commentators are actually mistaken about traveling.

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Space-A Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know to Take a Flight on a Military Hop

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What Are Space-A Flights (AKA, Military Hops)?

Are you eligible for a space-a flight, how does space-a travel work.

1. Identify Your Destination and Possible Routes

2. Follow the Space-A Flight Schedules of the Passenger Terminals You May Use

3. sign up to travel from all possible starting locations, 4. mark yourself present within 24 hours of roll call, 5. listen for your name during roll call, 6. check your luggage and obtain your boarding pass, 7. board the aircraft and pick your seat, what to expect on a space-a flight, pros and cons of flying space-a, the pros: what are the advantages of flying space-a, the cons: what are the disadvantages of space-a, when should you use space-a, what would a seasoned space-a traveler recommend.

Update: On April 22, 2022, the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense lifted all restrictions on Space-A travel. These restrictions were put in place in March 2020 to limit the spread of Covid-19. Mask mandates and medical screening protocols may still apply.

Looking for a way to save money on travel ? Flying space-available (Space-A) on a military flight can be a fun and inexpensive way to see the world, as airfare to and from U.S. military bases can cost you next to nothing.

Flying Space-A on military aircraft is very different from using commercial air travel, and you can’t just call a military passenger terminal and book your flight. It’s worth learning how Space-A travel works so you can take advantage of this incredible privilege available to eligible members of the military community.

After military flights accommodate all required passengers and cargo, they often release extra seats to service members, retirees and their families. These eligible passengers can “hop” on the flights on a space-available (Space-A) basis. This is where the term “military hop” comes from.

Because these are military, not commercial, flights, the military mission is always the priority. You may fly on a commercial plane, but you could also be in a cargo plane or fuel tanker.

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There are six categories, or “cats,” of eligible Space-A travelers, depending on their duty status and the reason they are traveling.

Those in lower-numbered categories receive higher priority for available seats.

Here is a summary of the Space-A travel categories, according to the Military OneSource website :

Cat 1: Emergency leave unfunded travel

Cat 2: Accompanied environmental and morale leave (EML)

Cat 3: Ordinary leave, service members’ relatives, house-hunting permissive temporary duty (TDY), Medal of Honor holders , and foreign military; also includes unaccompanied dependents of service members deployed for more than 365 consecutive days.

Cat 4: Unaccompanied EML; also includes dependents of service members deployed between 30 and 364 consecutive days

Cat 5: Permissive TDY (non-house-hunting), student travel, and post-deployment/mobilization respite absence; also includes unaccompanied dependents of service members stationed outside the continental U.S. (OCONUS)

Cat 6: Military retirees, their dependents, military reserve, Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) members and veterans who are 100% disabled

It is important to know your category when planning your Space-A travel because your category determines when you can sign up, what paperwork you need, and where you are eligible to fly. Table 3 in Section 4.11 of Department of Defense Instruction 4515.13 has more details on eligibility by category and approved geographical travel segments.

Eligibility Note for Veterans with a 100% Disability Rating :

According to the AF.mil website , “veterans with a service-connected, permanent disability rating of 100 percent will be able to travel in the Continental United States or directly between the CONUS and Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and American Samoa (Guam and American Samoa travelers may transit Hawaii or Alaska); or traveling within Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands on flights operated by Air Mobility Command.”

Disabled veterans must have a DD Form 2765, Defense Department ID Card (Tan), to fly Space-A.

The better you understand how to fly Space-A, the greater your chances of having a successful trip.

The first step is to learn which bases have regular flights to where you want to travel. This list of worldwide destinations where Space-A travel may be available includes profiles of some of the terminals and information about typical flight destinations. You’ll want to begin following some of their Space-A flight schedules, which we’ll discuss in the next step.

You may find several possible routes to your desired destination. For example, if you are on the East Coast and want to fly to one of the common destinations, including Spain or Germany, you will likely be able to travel from several nearby bases. Travelers from other parts of the U.S. may need to take two or more hops to get there.

The Space-A Travelers Facebook group can help you put together a flight plan to your destination. You can ask questions and find information about flying to and from specific locations.

You may have to combine Space-A travel with other transportation. For example, you may need to fly or drive to a base with regular Space-A flights to your desired destination. Or you may need to take a train or flight from an overseas base to your final destination.

The Air Mobility Command website maintains a list of all the military passenger terminals , as well as their contact info and links to their websites and Facebook pages.

You’ll find a 72-hour flight schedule for most terminals on their Facebook pages or the AMC website. The schedules include trip destinations, the number of Space-A seats and the “roll call” time. The roll call time is when terminal staff announces who has been selected for the flight.

You may also find information about recently departed flights, including how the number of Space-A seats and how many passengers competed for those seats.

Click here for more details on how to read the Space-A schedules on Facebook .

When you monitor the flights that depart from your target passenger over several weeks or months, you’ll notice patterns in the location and frequency of their missions.

Determine all the terminals you could depart from to reach your desired destination. You’ll increase your chances of success by signing up to fly from all of them. Signing up is free and takes only a few minutes.

The AMC website details the sign-up options, including the required information. You can sign up through their website, by email or in person at the terminal. You can also use the Take-A-Hop app (which costs $6.99). If you’re signing up for several terminals, email and the Take-A-Hop app are the easiest ways to do so.

The sooner you can sign up, the better, as priority within each category is based on the sign-up date and time. So sign up as early as possible. At most terminals, your sign-up is valid for up to 60 days.

Keep in mind that your category may affect how early you can sign up for Space-A travel. For example, active-duty service members (Cat 3) must be on leave before they can sign up. Those in Cat 3, however, have precedence over those in Cats 4 through 6, regardless of when they signed up.

You must mark yourself present at the terminal before roll call to let the staff know that you are competing for the flight. You can do so anytime within 24 hours of the scheduled roll call. Note: roll call times can change unexpectedly, so continually monitor the terminal’s 72-hour flight schedule to ensure you get there in time or, better yet, call the terminal to confirm.

Bring your military ID and any necessary documents, such as your passport, your leave form or your EML orders. If you are an unaccompanied dependent, you’ll need a memo from your sponsor’s command. Also bring a copy of your sign-up email as a backup to prove your sign-up date and time.

At roll call, terminal staff will announce how many Space-A seats are available for the flight and then the names of the selected passengers,  beginning with those in the highest-priority category.

If they call your name, go to the desk and confirm that you and any dependents traveling with you are present. You’ll need to show your military ID and any required paperwork, as well as ID cards for passengers older than 10 years old. For younger passengers,  bring their passports or MilConnect printouts that show the Department of Defense ID numbers.

If they don’t call your name, don’t leave the terminal just yet. Sometimes last-minute Space-A seats become available, so stay at the terminal until boarding time.

Once you and all members of your traveling party, along with all your luggage, must be present when the baggage check begins. This may be right after roll call, or it may be several hours later. You will need to stay in the terminal, as boarding times, like roll call times, can change without notice.

The AMC website’s FAQ page includes detailed information on baggage allowances. Because smaller aircraft may have different weight limits for luggage, it’s best to check ahead of time.

You will generally be allowed to check two pieces of luggage weighing up to 70 lbs each. Similar to many commercial flights, you can also bring one piece of carry-on luggage that fits under your seat or in the overhead compartment. You can usually check car seats and strollers, and they won’t count toward your baggage allowance.

AMC terminals follow the Transportation Security Administration’s baggage screening guidelines , so check their website ahead of time to see what you can bring in your carry-on bag, and what you must put in checked luggage.

Check if meals are available on the flight, as you’ll pay for these when you check your luggage. Some locations offer simple box lunches for a nominal cost.

If you are flying Space-A on a Patriot Express flight , your boarding pass will list your assigned seat.

When terminal staff announces boarding, you’ll go through security and wait in a secure area. With most flights, a bus will take you to the aircraft, and you’ll board from the tarmac.

On most Space-A flights, you’ll choose your seat when you board. On Patriot Express flights, your boarding pass will list your assigned seat.

Check your VA Home Loan eligibility and get personalized rates. Answer a few questions and we'll connect you with a trusted VA lender to answer any questions you have about the VA loan program.

Patriot Express flights offer amenities, including meals and in-flight movies. 

Other Space-A flights do not. Snacks and water may be available, but it’s best to be prepared and bring your own.

Seating depends on the type of aircraft. Some have seats that are comparable to commercial airlines. Others have web seating along the sides of the plane. If this is the case, you can stretch out if there’s room.

Patriot Express flights are climate-controlled, but other military aircraft are not. They are often cold or hot, so dress in layers. They can also be loud. The crew usually provides foam earplugs, but it’s a good idea to bring your own.

There are advantages and disadvantages to Space-A travel.

Space-A flights can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars over commercial airlines, which is a clear advantage. The only costs you might incur are a low per-passenger fee on Patriot Express flights, and you may be able to purchase low-cost meals at some terminals that offer meals for purchase.

When you land, you’ll be able to access base resources, including overnight base lodging and the commissary. You may even be able to purchase discount tickets to local events and attractions through the base’s Information, Tickets and Travel office (ITT).

Being able to stretch out on some aircraft can be another advantage over flying economy in a commercial plane. 

If you’re traveling with small children, you may also find that other passengers are more supportive than with a commercial airline.

And, of course, there may be a greater sense of adventure with Space-A travel.

• Free or low-cost air travel
• Access to base amenities (Base Exchange, Commissary, MWR, ITT, etc.)
• Possibly more space to spread out compared to commercial airlines
• It’s an adventure!

Space-A travel is less predictable than flying commercially. Passenger terminals post flight schedules only 72 hours in advance, and you won’t know if you got a seat until the last minute. 

Peak travel times, including summer, winter holidays, and even spring break, are even more competitive. You may need to be more flexible about when you travel and even where you’ll go.

You may incur other costs with Space-A travel, such as transportation to the base you’ll be flying from. You may need to wait for a flight home–possibly for days–and the costs of lodging and meals can quickly add up.

Finally, Space-A travel, unless you’re on a Patriot Express flight, is bare bones. You may find it cold, loud, and uncomfortable. 

• Travel and schedules can vary.
• Seats aren’t guaranteed — you must have flexible travel plans!
• Travel can be difficult during busy times (summer PCS season, holidays, etc.).
• Lodging, meals and transportation costs can add up.
• Military aircraft can be cold and uncomfortable.

If you have the time, flexibility, and patience to wait for a flight, Space-A travel can offer you an adventure while saving you a lot of money. If you’re traveling for an event, such as a wedding, and must arrive by a specific time, Space-A is not the best way to travel, especially if it’s during the peak seasons of summer, winter holidays, and spring break.

Flying Space-A requires planning, patience, and flexibility. Learn as much as you can about the process, and also research desired destinations and passenger terminals so that you can put together a successful flight plan.

When you are ready to leave, make sure you always have a backup plan and ensure you have enough money to pay for commercial transportation if Space-A doesn’t work out. Also, be prepared for a multi-legged journey–several shorter hops that bring you closer to your destination rather than one long direct flight.

About Post Author

Stephanie Montague

Stephanie Montague is the founder of Poppin’ Smoke , a website designed to encourage members of the military community to use their military benefits for travel. Stephanie and her husband have been traveling the world since he retired from the Army in 2015. Through Poppin’ Smoke, Stephanie shares everything they learn about Space-A travel and using military benefits while abroad.

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ray maring says

December 29, 2023 at 9:17 am

Thank you for hosting this information. I am a guardsman, retired and are interested in traveling now.

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Created by Billy Martin | Tim Malloy | Al Battista

The “Euro Step” – Is it legal or a violation?

• Basketball Officiating

Watch this video of the Euro Step and you decide if this new technique is “within the prescribed limits” of movement or should be ruled a traveling violation.

In order to rule “traveling” correctly, three questions must be addressed:

• Which foot is the pivot foot?
• How much legal movement may the player initiate (after ending their dribble)?
• How much movement would be considered “in excess” of prescribed limits? 

Keep in mind, it is not possible for a player to “travel” while dribbling.  Of course there could be other violations such as palming or illegal dribble – but not traveling.

When watching the “Euro Step” video note where the dribbler  was relative to a position on the floor when he ended the dribble.

• If a player ends a dribble with both feet on the floor, either foot may become the pivot.
• If both feet were off the floor and that player lands on both feet simultaneously, either foot may become the pivot foot. 
• Once one foot is moved, the other becomes the pivot  foot.  That is not the case in the Euro Step.
• If both feet were off the floor and that player lands on one foot followed by the other,  the first foot to touch the floor would become the pivot foot.
• If one foot is on the floor when that player gains control or ends a dribble, two legal means of coming to a stop are possible.  He may bring his other foot to the floor and thereby stop, or momentum may cause him to jump off that foot which is already on the floor and land on both feet simultaneously.  This is a legal jump stop.

Once the pivot foot is established … it may be LIFTED but NOT RETURNED to the floor before the ball is released for a pass or try for goal.

When breaking down the video watch for these key items:

Did the dribble end with one or both feet on the floor?

• Which foot should be considered the pivot foot?
• Did the pivot foot touch the floor again – BEFORE the ball was released for the try?

If the answer to number three (above) was YES, then this Euro Step would be considered illegal.

If the ball was released then player stayed within the “prescribed limits” of movement and would be considered legal.

Worth mentioning is the action of the hand in the cross over movement while dribbling.  Did you consider this illegal “palming” of the ball during the dribble?

The move would be considered illegal if:

• The ball comes to rest in the dribbler’s hand(s)
• With the palm facing UPWARD — i.e. “more than a handshake.”
• The player continues the dribble after the above.

As player become quicker and more skilled there will be coaches that teach moves outside the prescribed limits of movement to test our knowledge and recognition of the dribble and travel rules.  By knowing the pivot foot limitations will be the first step in understanding the limitations of a dribbler when it comes to new moves like the Euro Step.

Give our “60 Seconds on Officiating” community YOUR opinion (below) on the legality of the Euro Step.

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Since 2007, 60 Seconds on Officiating has been teaching, serving and inspiring basketball officials in over 90 countries worldwide.

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92 thoughts on “ The “Euro Step” – Is it legal or a violation? ”

It s a travel. The left foot is the pivot foot and he moves it, steps with it, then shoots the ball. Clearly a travel.

Disagree, Jim. Left foot is pivot, but he legally lifts it and then shoots the ball before pivot foot returns to the floor. This is legal.

Smh, think about what you’re saying- he lifts it Legally, yes, except that THEN his right foot hits the floor as well, Before he shoots it. You make it sound as if as long as he shoots it before his pivot foot hits the floor again, he can do Anything in between. He can’t THEN take another step with his right foot. His pivot foot can only leave the floor to go up in the air, as he releases the ball, before EITHER foot touches the floor again. The eurostep is just a nice term for running illegally on purpose…and the refs ignoring it…

Sorry, Ryan that’s incorrect. A lot of people think this and they get angry and try to call traveling. However, the rule is very clear. The pivot foot may be picked up when shooting or passing but cannot be returned to the floor before the shot or pass occurs. He ended his dribble with his left foot on the ground making his left foot his pivot foot, then he took the step to the right with his right foot not returning his pivot foot to the floor. If what you are saying is true then the running layup would be illegal. I’ve coached middle school basketball for over 10 years and I’ve attended seminars, read books and watch countless videos on this by experts.

Though our state seems to be about three or four years behind anything new, this happened three times in the last two games. Incurred the protest of the opposing coaches and about 50% of the assembled fans, but, as video confirmed, nothing illegal about it. As per the dictum, “Just because it looks bad doesn’t mean it’s illegal.” It’s quite another thing convincing others not to call it a violation. When they do, nobody really seems to protest, solely because it “looked bad.”

You just watched the video Confirm that it is illegal and so densely said anyway “as the video confirmed, nothing illegal about it”. MANU told you he didn’t think it was illegal. The video didn’t Confirm there was nothing illegal. It confirmed MANU does an Illegal move on purpose.

Here’s what you’re missing. Once the pivot foot is established, without an intervening fumble and touch by an opposing player or other loss of possession, your other foot cannot become the pivot foot. Once the pivot foot always the pivot foot. That’s why your other foot can’t become the pivot foot as you go hopping down the court as you describe below. The real problem, however, is that upon picking up your dribble, the first foot to hit the floor after that does not automatically become a pivot foot. It only does if you stop without taking a second step. In picking up your dribble you are allowed a two count rhythm and if you use it, the second footfall becomes the pivot foot. So in the Euro step the player picks up his dribble lunging one way planting in the first rhythm say the right foot, then lunges across his body to his left foot. As the second foot fall that becomes his pivot foot. He then jumps and releases the ball before either foot returns to the floor. No travel. Here’s the official explanation:

b. A player who receives the ball while he is progressing or upon completion of a dribble, may use a two-count rhythm in coming to a stop, passing or shooting the ball. The first count occurs: (1) As he receives the ball, if either foot is touching the floor at the time he receives it. (2) As the foot touches the floor, or as both feet touch the floor simultane- ously after he receives the ball, if both feet are off the floor when he receives it. The second occurs: (1) After the count of one when either foot touches the floor, or both feet touch the floor simultaneously. c. A player who comes to a stop on the count of one may pivot, using either foot as the pivot foot. d. A player who comes to a stop on the count of two, with one foot in advance of the other, may pivot using only the rear foot as the pivot foot. e. A player who comes to a stop on the count of two, with neither foot in advance of the other, may use either foot as the pivot foot.

Agree with Matt. Left is pivot, he releases ball before left returns to floor.

You didn’t just watch him then plant his right foot into the floor after picking up his pivot foot? So his right foot was his pivot foot 3 steps before that too. Since you seem to think you can do anything after calling it your pivot foot, why does it matter Which pivot foot you’re referring too? You just ignoring that he then made his right foot his Last pivot foot, and talked about his left one before that. I saw 3 or 4 people say that after WATCHING it in slow motion! Read the rules! You can’t just pick up your pivot foot and let your other foot touch the floor since it hasn’t touched yet lol wtf! NEITHER foot can touch once your pivot foot leaves. I can’t believe something so obvious is being said wrong by so many idiots! You just watched it blatantly go against the rulebook!

legal the ball is gone before the pivot foot returns to the floor.It is just a good move.

No its not! You’d have be so stupid to think its legal! If you were to just stop, period. Lift your right foot up, jump with your left(since its your pivot), then you Have to get rid of the ball before EITHER foot hits the ground! So why would you think he can just take another step with his right because his left didn’t touch again? How stupid is that? That’s the definition of traveling so that players don’t do it! So they don’t do That!

Actually, you can do that. If I come to the floor and stop establishing a pivot foot then I can use that pivot foot to launch myself into a step or jump in either direction. Manu could have stopped establishing his left as his pivot foot, done about 6 jab steps with his right foot keeping his left pivot foot on the ground, then launched himself to the right landing on his right foot, then shooting. As long as his pivot foot doesn’t come to the floor, it’s legal. I’m sorry that you don’t like the rule, but you are wrong.

Legal move. Left foot is the pivot; he lifts it and jumps off the right foot. Looks funny because we aren’t used to seeing it, but nothing illegal that I can see.

Exactly he lifts it and jumps off his right foot, which is why it’s ILLEGAL. By your logic, he could stop, jump off his left foot, and then just keep hopping all over the court on his right foot just as long as he wants, cause his pivot foot didn’t land….that’s how ridiculous it is…back IN REALITY, so that that can’t happen, the real rule is that NEITHER foot can touch again once his pivot foot leaves the floor. He had to get rid of it before his right foot touches.

Actually, Ryan no one has said that. If he started hopping then he taken more than 2 steps (1 1/2 for purists) However, he didn’t hop. He took one step to the right after establishing a pivot foot. Completely legal.

This is a good move. You can see that the left foot is the pivot foot and does not return to the floor. This move is performed by highly skilled players.

If you pause the video at the 1:05 mark, it shows that the dribble has ended as he is holding the ball above his left knee. At that point (if you are able to pause the video right as it turns to 1:05), his right foot is on the ground and left foot is in the air. By rule his right foot is pivot. He then comes down on the left, then steps and comes down with the right (pivot foot) before releasing the ball. I make the argument for a travel violation.

if you stop it at .47 you will see that as dribble stops , left foot will become pivot. It doesn’t return until shot is gone.

yes!!! his RIGHT foot is the pivot… he lifts it then puts it back to the floor… traveling!

Looks a lot like a step through that had been modified to look a little bit different. This is legal.

This is the easiest no call ever. No even close to a travel.

Look at the video. Both hands are on the ball. Dribble has ended. Left foot is NOT on the floor. Close but NOT on the floor. Right foot is the pivot foot. Steps with left. By rule, ball MUST be released before the pivot foot, right foot, comes to the floor again. Steps with the right and it hits the floor and then the shot goes up. Traveling violation.

If you watch when he splits the double team he pushes the ball left and carries the ball before he makes his move to the basket so I would call that violation first.

Seeing this move more frequently, nothing illegal about this move here in the video. Non-professional players will carry the ball more often when making this move or the defense will foul. Looks weird, like jumping off your right foot for a right-handed lay-up. Weird does not make it illegal.

Regardless of how you rule on it..in a game, we have to make split decisions and cannot rewind, rethink, pause and/or debate it. Looks legal to me without a rewind and pause but what’s more important is that we have this clip to prepare us to anticipate these moves and be prepared to make a ruling on its legality. These videos make impressions in mind and I replay them in my mind during pregame warmups as I observe player tendencies. Thank you 60 seconds; keep up the great work.

Not a travel. Think of this just like the hop through and up to the basket. We should not be calling these travels. This is the new direction of the game and most of the new athletic players have these moves.

YOU think about it in the Right terms, and stop misleading people. The rule is so simple its almost impossible to misinterpret as you have! Once he stops dribbling and his left foot becomes the pivot foot, NEITHER foot can touch the floor again once it leaves the floor. “The pivot foot not hitting the floor again” has nothing to do with anything. NEITHER foot can touch again.

You must be new to the sport. That’s ok. Everyone has to start somewhere. What rule are you talking about? If you end your dribble with one foot on the ground and then you jump onto two feet that is a traditional jump stop and neither foot is the pivot foot. However, you are talking about a pivot foot. If one is established then the player can lift it and take a step as long as it doesn’t come in contact with the floor before the ball is released then it’s legal.

Clean move. Looks awkward but because it is not a most often seen straight forward move to the basket does not make it a violation

It could be legal or illegal (depends of how it is executed) but anyway I don’t like it.

It appears that we are trying to compare apples and oranges, NBA rules allow two steps whereas high school and college allow one. Clearly the euro step is a two step move. It is a travel all day long!!!

A couple have mentioned the 1:05 mark on the film, regarding the status of the ball and the Right pivot foot…. Making a call… ” If you cant see it at full speed, it isn’t there”. The dribble ended when the ball was gathered, at that time the Left foot was the pivot.

this is a ‘Post Pivot move’ on the run, enjoy it, dont guess watch tape, get FAST EYES. IF your good in the post, you’ll know walk when flys by you in the “C”

show where “gathering the ball” is defined in the nfhs rule book. “end of dribble” is well defined and it happens with the right foot on the floor… therefore it is the pivot.

Agree with Matt. Legal move. Pivot foot never retouched the floor.

the LEFT foot is the pivot foot when he gathers the ball. watch it again.

it is not about “gather” which is undefined, but rather “end of dribble” which is well-defined as two hands on the ball. this happens with the #right# foot on the floor and it is a traveling violation.

This is no doubt a travel. The right foot is the pivot foot. Therefore, once the right foot returns to the floor the player has traveled. Do not think of this as a legal move as ever definition of the euro step is described as a two step process. Which in high school sports two steps is a travel. How does anyone think that this is a legal move.

allow the move for those with skill set to pull it off, eliminate the guess work of the officials, solidify , unify ,and simplify the action . coaches will adjust could improve players game

kind of scares me, the amount of people who think this is a travel. Remember When breaking down the video watch for these key items:

“The dribble doesnt end until he is making a legal layup.”

Which foot should be considered the pivot foot? “there are no Pivots, as the dribble NEVER ENDED.”

Did the pivot foot touch the floor again – BEFORE the ball was released for the try? N/A

this is simply not true. the dribble ends when both hands are on the ball… this also marks the beginning of the shot.

Disagree Chandra. The dribble ends when the dribbler catches or causes the ball to come to rest in one or both hands. In several of these video “takes” the dribble ended when the player had a foot on the ground (the pivot foot) and he then steps to the opposite foot and back to the pivot before releasing the ball on the try. Each video “take” was different; some being “traveling” in my view and others not so.

This is a walk. The left foot is the pivot foot. He can lift it to shoot but he must release the ball before the pivot foot comes back down to the floor. He lifts his left pivot foot, steps onto his right foot and lifts his left pivot foot. So far , so good. But then he returns to the floor with his left foot. The pivot foot may not return to the floor before the ball is released. That’s a walk and we are going the other way.

In the NBA two steps to the basket is allow, I don’t know if it is the rule,but it is not called. In College and High School, the “Euro Step” would not be allowed, that would be “Traveling”

That’s incorrect. This is not a travel at any level of Basketball.

At game speed you cannot stop the tape to review, Therefore, if you are going to call a travel it should be an obvious call. A player is allowed two steps after discontinuing a dribble regardless of how long, awkward, or direction those two steps take the player. If there is no carry/palming violation, or third step, you play on unless there’s a clear-cut third step or shuffle.

yes. it should be obvious. in full speed this might not be #recognized# as a travel, but that does not mean that it is not a travel… it is.

If done correctly as Manu demonstrated, it is legal. Great move.

Legal in NBA, traveling in high school

your correct Coach

The biggest question that must be answered is when was the ball gathered, thus resulting in the end of the dribble. It is apparent that this is causing a lot of problems for officials. It shows in the differing opinion as to which is the pivot foot? The left or the right. In order to properly rule on this play you must get the pivot foot correct. In this video he gathers the ball with his left foot on the floor making it the pivot foot. He then steps with his right foot and releases the shot before returning the left foot to the floor (note Manu is also a lefthander and shooting a layup off the right foot is natural for him). A legal move.

“gather” is not defined. “end of dribble” is… as two hands on the ball.

It is very obvious that we as officials are not consistent! Someone please give us a rule interpretation! Just a thought

Legal move. Both feet on the floor when dribble ends, therefore either foot may be established as pivot. He picks up right foot first establishing left as pivot, steps of right, lifts left but releases ball before left returns to floor.

By technical definition, the footwork of a “lay-up” is traveling (L-R-L) for a right-hander. Pick up the ball on the first L, then a R, then a L. If the player then passed the ball, it would be a travel…but we allow him/her to make those fluid steps into a shot. Watch the video closely, it is EXACTLY a left-handed lay-up (R-L-R). Spelled out: dribbles and picks up the ball on the first R, then steps L, then the R step, up and shoot. The ONLY very slight variance is that it is not in a straight line. The move from the L to the R is LATERAL!. For some reason everyone is having a tough time recognizing! This is a left-handed lay-up!! If he passed the ball, it is a travel. He is allowed to shoot the ball.

a layup does not have to be l-r-l or r-l-r… in fact both of those, as you describe them, are illegal in high school basketball. if he “picks up” the ball with both hands with his right foot down THAT is his pivot foot. if he picks it up, he MUST shoot or pass. in the nba? legal apparently as there are two steps allowed after the end of dribble.

Great move. Anyone calling travel is too technical and jealous. Move was first seen in NBA by Latrell Sprewell and Alen Iverson, not Manu Ginobli. Get your game up and your history. Analysis to paralysis is always detrimental to the game. Love the sport. Don’t hate congratulate.

nba =/= high school.

I disagree with Rob as to “we allow the L-R-L”…The perfect non travel lay up is that the left foot should not be on the ground when the ball is gathered…the player should be between steps, (in the air) gather the ball, put the right foot on the floor (pivot) THEN step with the left foot (one step) and up…Two steps is illegal by the rules. I am not aware of anywhere in the in the rule book where it says they can take two steps when they take a lay up. Certainly, there are not two separate rules for passing and shooting. As far as the video goes, it does appear to me that his left foot is the pivot foot, and if thats the case…NO TRAVEL…Just my two cents.

Bob, I agree with you by far the most out of these comments. It’s our definition of “step” that’s throwing us off. Those that say two “steps” is a travel are correct! However, the first foot that comes down (in your first example, the right foot) is the pivot, then a “step” comes, and then you’re up, and shoot. If you gather in the air, establish a pivot, step, jump and pass – still legal. It all depends on when you gather the ball – if gathered too soon, it is a travel.

Travel – Dribble ended with right foot on floor. When it comes down again during the layup…travel.

Watch video closely. This is multiple takes. I believe he travels in one and legal in others. Watch foot position in lane and defenders. I believe everyone is right because there was a legal move and illegal move.

The first time through at 1:05 he establishes his pivot foot as his right foot. Then he steps with his left and then again with his right. That’s a travel at any level except the NBA. The NBA made a slight modification to their rules in 2009 that make this legal. In the NBA, the first step occurs “after he’s gained control of the ball”. He doesn’t maintain control until after he’s grasped it with both hands. This occurs just after the right step at 1:05. So his first step is with his left foot. So his left foot is now his pivot foot in the NBA.

How is this different from a standard lay-up? It’s simply a change in direction during the two steps.

The difficulty to me is determining when did the dribble stop. You could make the argument that it stopped when his right foot was still on the floor (establishing the pivot foot) or it stopped just after the right foot left the floor (establishing the left foot as the pivot foot). So in this case since to me it is too close to call, I follow the ‘if you THINK it is a travel, take a pass. If you KNOW it is a travel, call it.” I go with it is legal only because it is too close to call.

This has nothing to do with 1-step allowed or 2-steps allowed, it’s a standard layup with a change of direction. As with any layup, it’s possible to travel if you’re sloppy with your ball-handling and pick up your dribble too early or too late. But otherwise this move is not hard to execute legally just like any other layup (you do need more body control to pull off the change of direction successfully.)

Shouldn’t you have to actually, you know, PIVOT with your pivot foot? All he’s doing is picking up the ball and walking around with it. This move should have never been allowed..

I mean, I’m going to pick up the ball, take two steps in whatever direction I feel like — and at whatever speed — and it’s apparently legal as can be.

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The other thing to pay attention to is how fast the player executes this move. When Manu is demonstrating, he’s not necessarily playing at “game speed”. This can change the moment when the ball is gathered, and usually when it’s done very slowly, the gather point happens “earlier” in the step sequence. For a right handed layup, a very slow “demonstration” would put the gathering motion while the left foot is still on the ground, making it the pivot foot. Then you step right, and back to left to go up and shoot, and you’ve travelled. At game speed, the gather happens “between steps”, just after the left foot has come up off the floor, so that the right foot becomes the pivot. Then you step left and go up to shoot and everything’s fine. Manu’s shooting a left handed layup here, so it’s the opposite feet, but the same idea applies: when you slow it down enough, it *becomes* a travel because the gather happens a half step too soon. We can slow our steps down to demonstrate a layup, but we can’t slow gravity down to make the ball hang in the air a bit longer before we gather it.

1-2 step. Not travel.

I went over and over this video and the best I can tell his right foot is on the floor when he has gathered the ball in. When his right foot hits the floor again without releasing the ball it is a travel.

It is extremely difficult to determine if Manu picks up (gathers) the ball with one or 2 feet on the ground. For the setup of the move to occur legally, 2 feet have to be on the ground. Assuming this happens (and he has his right toe and left heel on the ground it seems), then, the left foot becomes the pivot foot which then is lifted and never put back down. Manu still is allowed to land and use his right foot to elevate himself to the basket since he does not return his pivot foot to the ground. This move truly skirts through the traveling violation loopholes, just as the player skirts around the defender.

this discussion is full of non-rule based terms and arguments. there is no such term as “gather” or “step” defined in the nfhs basketball rule book. there #are# terms such as “dribble” and “pivot” defined however… and the traveling violation is based on these definitions.

a “dribble” ends when a player touches the ball with both hands. the “pivot” foot is the one on the ground when the dribble ends. the “pivot” foot cannot leave the ground and return before the dribbler passes or shoots. end of story.

you may judge that, in the video, the “dribble” does not end (two hands on the ball!) until his left foot is down. if this is your judgment, then his left foot is the “pivot” and it’s not traveling. in my judgment, he has both hands on the ball with his right foot down, so it is a violation.

How is the Euro step not considered a jump, like in the pro hop or hop step? The last jump is not a natural movement like in a regular layup. And since it’s not a legal hop, then it’s a travel.

Wow…a lot weighed in on this one. Clearly the pivot foot is what determines whether this move is legal or not. From my prospective, the dribble ended just prior to the left foot contacting the floor. The left foot is the pivot foot. As he steps through with his right foot, the left pivot foot never contacted the floor until the ball was released. This by rule, is a legal play.

Here’s the explanation. Once the pivot foot is established, without an intervening fumble and touch by an opposing player or other loss of possession, your other foot cannot become the pivot foot. Once the pivot foot always the pivot foot. That’s why your other foot can’t become the pivot foot as you go hopping down the court as someone suggested above. The real problem, however, is that upon picking up your dribble, the first foot to hit the floor after that does not automatically become a pivot foot. It only does if you stop without taking a second step. In picking up your dribble you are allowed a two count rhythm and if you use it, the second footfall becomes the pivot foot. So in the Euro step the player picks up his dribble lunging one way planting in the first rhythm say the right foot, then lunges across his body to his left foot. As the second foot fall that becomes his pivot foot. He then jumps and releases the ball before either foot returns to the floor. No travel. Here’s the official explanation:

about the euro step in general, as a player who does this move regularly: it’s just a layup where your two steps are taken in opposite directions instead of all in the same line. nothing more. legal.

James, you may get away with it, but it is clearly traveling. The difference between the regular layup and the eurostep is that you pick up the ball thereby establishing the pivot. In a regular layup the transition from dribbling to shooting is a continuous motion. The problem with the play is that too many officials who are new and don’t know the traveling rule well enough let it go so there is not sufficient consistency.

Also, you are not allowed 2 steps on a layup.

As a 30 year official I maintain that it is clearly traveling. In the video, he picks up the ball when his right foot is in contact with the floor then lifts the left, puts it down and picks up the right and puts it down, jumping off of it to shoot. “Traveling”

If he had timed his gather after the dribble correctly, he would have gathered as the left foot is on the floor, thus either establishing it as the pivot (if it is the only foot on the floor) or allowing it to become the pivot (if the right is also on the floor at that point, then lifted to make the left the pivot). In that case the move would be legal.

However, if you slow the video enough you can see that he finishes his dribble with the right foot only in contact with the floor, thus establishing a pivot earlier than he intended, i.e. the right foot is the pivot. The only further step allowed at that point is to place the left foot, from which he may now spring for a shot. The pivot (right foot) must not return to the floor before the ball has been played. He, however, does return the right foot to the floor, making it a travel.

That is everywhere except the NBA. In the NBA this is explicitly OK since the rule change and has been implicitly allowed for a while.

Unless the “Euro-step” is defined as taking two full steps, it is not necessarily illegal in itself. As stated above, if he had only taken care to gather his dribble with the left foot, both feet, or neither foot, in contact with the floor, he would be OK – left foot pivot, jump off the right, left pivot foot does not return to floor before shot or pass is launched. As it is he gathered a shade early and ended up travelling.

Right foot is the pivot foot. Therefore this was a travel. This was very close making it a tough call, but most of the times I have seen this move in high school or college games it has obviously been a travel. The simple rule is you don’t get 2 steps.

If this happened in the middle of the floor and “Player A” was on a fastbreak and a defender “Player B” somehow ended up on the ground in front of him and “Player A” stopped mid dribble launching off his left foot to jump over “Player B” landing on his right foot and then lunged forward of his right then passing and/or shooting the ball it would be called a traveling violation every time

if the euro step is done by hopping or a jump then it’s clearly illegal.

If you slow it down the video and about 1:04 minute, you’ll see when the dribbler makes contact with both hands on the ball ending the dribble and the right foot is on the floor ( therefore the pivot foot) and very close behind the left foot touches the floor. He then lifts pivot foot and contacts floor again before the shot. Therefore a travel ruling would be correct here.

Just to clarify there’s two cuts at 1.05 and 1.06. One (1.05) he slows down the motion for illustration purposes. At 1.06 you can just see him gather the ball when the left plants, making the left his pivot foot. The classic Euro step always ends with the ball gathered on the first lateral step. I think the mistake with this video is they have attempted to slow it down and he’s gathered the ball early for illustration purposes. Now I agree if he gathers when the right is planted that’s the pivot foot, however that’s not the case here.

I hope a lot of you have figured this out…this is how the “eurostep” should be performed. His left foot becomes the pivot and does not return to the floor so in all rule sets this is legal. There is a lot of faulty logic going on about no feet can return to the floor and I haven’t seen anyone talk about the fact that you can pick up and move the non-pivot foot as many times as you want. Some of you are just having difficulty seeing this as an official for some reason. If you call that a walk you aren’t gonna last long. That being said most high school kids think they get two steps to the basket and that just isn’t true. Call it and when the coach gripes just say his pivot foot touched the ground coach and go about your business…

LEGAL. Here’s why. The key is to identify when the dribble ends (ball caught). No matter how you want to parse this, you would be guessing if you think the dribble was ended (ball caught) while the right foot was still on the floor. This highly skilled player was gathering in the ball as he moved across to his left but he does not CLEARLY catch the ball until he gets to his left. All the movement to his left is part of the player ending his dribble and is legal. As he does this, the right foot is ever-so-slightly OFF the floor. To say anything else would be a GUESS at best because you cannot be certain that the ball is caught. Things get a lot clearer the moment there’s no doubt about the ball being caught (he slaps the other hand onto the ball) when the left is on the floor. So that establishes the left as his pivot foot. After that, what’s the issue? There is none. He steps to his right and takes off, releasing his layup with his left hand well before the left returns to the floor.

Don’t be “Deputy Dog” (gotcha!) We officials are trained NOT TO GUESS so as to not unduly penalize a skilled player.

LEGAL. Live it. Love it. Learn to chew on that whistle and don’t blow until you are sure!

2 steps off a pivot is a travel. Doesn’t matter if the pivot is established on the toe or flat footed. Eurostep is a traveling violation. If it isn’t then two steps off a pivot foot should be allowed in every circumstance which it is not

I think people in this discussion are overlooking the way the acceptance of the “Euro step” has negatively influenced footwork especially in the pro game. What I observe is that because of the stretching of the interpretation of what a player can do with a pivot foot at the end of a drive, it is now common place to see post play with a catch of the ball a pivot foot established and a pivot on right/left foot, then often the player will slide that pivot foot and/or simply pivot on the other foot somewhere in his progression without it being called. Likewise, on the front-end of drives from triple threat it used to be that if a player jab stepped with a foot and then tried to start a drive by moving the pivot foot priors to putting the ball down on a dribble drive that was routinely called, now it is routinely ignored. What you have here is a theoretic discussion without discussion of unintended consequences.

Total Walk. He touches ball to stop dribble when right foot on ground, established as the pivot foot. He then steps left and back right, landing the pivot foot again. As outlined on USA Basketball explanation of rules of when is the pivot foot established, it is at the point both hands contact the ball to end the dribble. That is “count one” as well and his right foot is on the ground. Period. Most referees don’t get the concept and many now never played the game to understand how to make it look “smooth” so they let it go. From USA Basketball: At the moment you gain possession of the ball (receive or intercept a pass, get a rebound, or pick up a loose ball) or end your dribble, you must establish a pivot foot. You gain possession when you catch and have control of the ball, with one hand or both hands. Dribbling is the act of bouncing the ball to the court with one hand without interruption. It ends the moment you interrupt that bouncing by touching the ball simultaneously with two hands or by allowing it to come to rest a) hold the ball, b) move it laterally (carried ball); or c) rotate it (palming). The moment the ball comes to rest in your hand, you end your dribble. Dribbling again after the ball comes to rest is a double dribble, a violation. Establishing a Pivot Foot The moment you gain possession or end your dribble, you can establish a pivot foot in the following ways. 1. If both feet are on the court, you may choose your pivot foot. Moving one foot establishes the other as the pivot foot. 2. If one foot is on the court, that foot is the pivot foot. 3. If both feet are in the air, the foot that touches the court first is the pivot foot. Should both feet land on the court simultaneously, then you may choose your pivot foot, as in point 1. Limitations Having established a pivot foot, you may, within defined limits, pivot, shoot, pass or dribble.To pivot, you may step with the non-pivot foot in any direction, provided the ball of the pivot foot remains in contact with the court and does not move laterally. You may raise your pivot foot to shoot or pass, provided the ball leaves your hands before the pivot foot returns to the court.

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Why the Euro Step is Not a Travel: A Detailed Breakdown

The Euro step. It‘s an explosive offensive move that lets today‘s NBA superstars slice through defenses on the way to some highlight-reel baskets. But if you‘re just a casual fan, it can look an awful lot like traveling. So how do players get away with it? There‘s a method to the madness – let‘s break down the Euro step and why it‘s a legal move in the NBA.

A Little History

While the exact origins are disputed, the Euro step clearly has roots overseas. Basketball coaches and experts have traced early versions of the move to European basketball leagues as far back as the 1960s and 70s.

The first player widely credited with bringing the Euro step to the NBA is Sarunas Marciulionis , a Lithuanian guard who joined the Golden State Warriors in 1989. Teammate Chris Mullin has said Marciulionis would use the move to "shake the defender and seal his path to the basket."

But it was fellow European baller Manu Ginobili who truly popularized the Euro step after entering the league in the early 2000s. The Argentine guard deployed it so effectively, the move became forever linked to him. "He put his own stamp on it," said coach Gregg Popovich. As Ginobili racked up points for the Spurs, more and more NBA stars added the Euro step to their arsenal.

Now, masters like James Harden and Giannis Antetokounmpo have turned it into an absolute go-to weapon. Just last season, the Greek Freak scored an incredible 53 points in a Finals game while Euro-stepping his way to the rim at will.

Breaking Down the Mechanics

So what exactly is the Euro step, and how does it work to beat defenders? Here‘s a step-by-step:

The offensive player picks up their dribble and heads towards the basket.

They take a long stride with one foot in one direction – this is the "step 1" .

Next comes a quick push off the other foot to sharply change directions – the "step 2" .

This sequence allows them to fake out their defender and attack the lane. By rapidly stepping laterally, they use their body to create space and get the defender on their hip.

Check out this clip of James Harden executing it to perfection:

Here‘s the key though – it happens swiftly, taking advantage of momentum and body position, so the steps occur in quick succession . At full speed, the Euro step unfolds rapidly, which is why it may seem like a travel to untrained eyes.

But Why No Traveling Violation?

This is where understanding the NBA‘s rules comes in. According to the league‘s official rulebook :

"A player who receives the ball while moving is allowed a two count rhythm but must release the ball prior to the third step touching the floor."

In 2009, the NBA explicitly allowed two steps on drives to the basket. As long as the player does not exceed two steps after gathering the ball, the Euro step is legal.

The gather step – when the player has full control – does not count as one of the two allotted steps. This means the sequence of steps is:

• Gather step (not counted)

And that‘s why the Euro step doesn‘t trigger traveling violations. The referees have to determine when the gather occurs to know when to start counting steps. At full game speed, it‘s nearly impossible to perceive more than two steps taken after the gather.

This rule is vastly different from NCAA and high school basketball – they only permit a one-two step. Doing a Euro step at lower levels would definitely get whistled for traveling.

Mastering the Gather

You might be wondering: "Couldn‘t players travel and say they were still just gathering the ball?"

The gather step cannot just be exploited without limit. From the NBA case book, referees look for the following to determine a legal gather:

• Control of the ball with two hands
• Ability to pass, shoot, or dribble

Players can‘t just grab the ball and run wild. But within reason, the gather allows fluid motion that aids offensive players.

Here‘s an ultra slow-mo clip showing James Harden‘s gather step on a Euro step to the rim:

Freezing it frame-by-frame shows he‘s gained control and has options before taking two more legal steps to the hoop.

More Legal Moves Using the Gather

The gather doesn‘t just enable the Euro step – it opens up other creative offensive moves within the rules:

Stepback Jumpers: Harden and others use the gather step to step back and create space for jumpers.

Side Steps: Taking a quick gather step then stepping sideways to fake out the defense.

Double Step Backs: Stepping back twice is legal if done swiftly after the gather.

But players still can‘t just travel egregiously based on the gather rule. Referees will whistle violations if a player obviously exceeds limits. The gather just allows fluid, athletic motion within two steps.

Why I Like the Euro Step

As a basketball fanatic, I‘ve come to appreciate the Euro step. Does it sometimes toe the line of traveling ? Sure. But it‘s an exciting, graceful move that showcases the athletes‘ abilities.

Defenders have also gotten better at countering it by studying film and avoiding being put on their heels. And there‘s nothing quite like seeing a smooth Euro step in transition lead to a monster dunk.

I would not be in favor of banning it – the two step rule gives players some freedom of motion while still maintaining limits. If it ever gets too out of control, the NBA can simply adjust rules accordingly.

But for now, the Euro step makes the game more fun to watch. I think even the casual fans who complain about traveling can learn to enjoy the nuanced footwork. It‘s all about understanding the rules and watching in slow-mo!

The Evolution of the Two Step Rule

This two step allowance has not always been in place. Prior to 2009, the rulebook was more vague on precise number of steps allowed. But over the decades, the league embraced a more open, athletic game.

Loosening restrictions on drives reflected this shift. Allowing two steps fit naturally with how the game flow and style of play had developed.

Of course, debates continue around how liberally the rule should be enforced. Traditionalists argue it has gone too far, while the NBA likely sees it as a successful change.

I‘m fascinated by the greater historical context and how the rulebook evolves alongside the on-court product. The dance between freedom of motion and maintaining fundamental basketball will likely continue.

Final Takeaways on Mastering the Euro Step

While the Euro step might bewilder casual fans, it‘s a legal offensive weapon thanks to the NBA‘s gather step and two step rules. To recap key points:

• Originated internationally before entering NBA via European players
• Involves two quick steps after picking up dribble
• Legal based on "gather step" and 2009 two step rule
• Other moves like stepbacks also use gather step
• Timing, footwork, and ball control are vital
• Referees still whistle clear traveling violations

Hopefully this breakdown better explains the method behind the Euro step madness. Give it a try yourself next time you hit the blacktop! Executed properly, the Euro step can be unstoppable – just ask Giannis.

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