As written in the 2025-26 NFHS Basketball Rules Book:
Goaltending occurs when:
ART. 1 … A defensive player touches the ball during a try or tap for field goal while the ball is in its downward flight entirely above the basket ring level, has the possibility of entering the basket in flight and is not touching the basket cylinder;
ART. 2 … A defensive player touches the ball outside the cylinder during a free-throw attempt.
ART. 3 … When the ball contacts the backboard, it is considered to be on its downward flight. In such a case, it is goaltending when the ball is touched by a defensive player as long as it has the possibility of entering the basket.
This rule change establishes that once the ball contacts the backboard, it is automatically considered to be on its downward flight. Therefore, if a player touches the ball after it hits the backboard, and the ball has a possibility of entering the basket, it is ruled as goaltending.
This clarification helps protect legitimate shot attempts, reduces rough rebounding situations, and addresses a common rules misconception among coaches and players. It provides officials with a clearer standard for enforcing goaltending in backboard-related plays.
Rationale: This change enhances officiating clarity and protects legitimate shot attempts. It also addresses a common misconception among coaches and players by explicitly defining goaltending, leading to more consistent enforcement.