Basketball Trainer

Connect With Trainers, Camps, Select Teams, and Knowledge

  • Find Trainers
  • Camps
  • Teams
  • Online Trainer
    • Drill of The Month
    • ONLINE BASKETBALL TRAINER
  • Training Aids
  • Business Owners
  • Blog
  • Contact
  • Find Trainers
  • Camps
  • Teams
  • Online Trainer
    • Drill of The Month
    • ONLINE BASKETBALL TRAINER
  • Training Aids
  • Business Owners
  • Blog
  • Contact

How to Keep a Basketball Scorebook (Complete Guide)

February 7, 2023 By basketballtrainer

Every official basketball game needs an official scorebook. No matter what the level of basketball being played, both teams are required to have someone who knows how to keep a basketball scorebook.
Weight training on an empty or full stomach? – Fitnessmith best place to buy anavar online buy testosterone test propionate, anabolic bodybuilding usa – yabanci bahis siteleri.
The official scorer for the game is the individual who keeps the scorebook for the home team. He or she is seated at the the scorer’s table. The visiting team is allowed to have a person seated at the scorer’s table to keep their scorebook. The official score keepers have a big responsibility, but not one to be afraid of.

The officials signal each time a field goal is made and whether it was a two point or three point basket. They also signal fouls and free throws. So you must watch the officials more than watching the game. That is why a lot of parents and fans have a time keeping score! 🙂

Keeping

Official signaling 2 point field goal

The official scorebook of the home team is the official record of the running score of the game, the individual point totals, personal fouls, technical fouls, and team fouls. The scoreboard that is displayed in the gymnasium is NOT official.

If there is a discrepancy between the scoreboard and the home team’s official scorebook, the scorebook prevails. The game clock and scoreboard operator should communicate closely with the official scorekeeper to make sure that the scoreboard reflects what is recorded on the scorebook.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to keep a basketball scorebook. We will emphasize the official scorebook, but any fan can keep their own at the game or when watching at home to add to the enjoyment. The official scorer must use their teams’ season’s scorebook. Anyone else doesn’t need an official book. You can make your own basketball score sheet.

Prepare your materials and pregame information:

To keep a scorebook, you will need a pen or pencil, a notebook, a scorebook specifically designed for basketball, and a basic knowledge of the rules of the game.

Before the game starts, make sure to:

    1. Write the date, location, and the team name for the two teams playing. This information is recorded at the top of the scorebook.

 

    1. Write down the names of the players and uniform numbers for your team, along with indicating the starting five. Copy the names and numbers from the opposing team from their scorebook. Allow their scorekeeper to do the same with yours. The coaches are required to report the starting five players for each team to the official scorer. Often, the visiting team’s coach will report to his or her scorekeeper who will then relay the information to the official scorer.

 

  1. There are areas on the score page to have the officials sign their names, to write the names of the coaches, and to fill in your name as the scorer.

Now, you are prepared for the game to tip off!

In Game Scoring Responsibilities

Remember, that even if you have ties to one of the teams or to some of the players in the game, you must be neutral. You cannot cheer, question officials, leave while the game is in progress, or check you phone. You must be focus only on the game!

Keeping track of the team score and the individual points scored is the main reason for keeping a scorebook. There are other responsibilities as well. Here is what you need to know:

    1. Write down the running score after each basket is made. There is a section on the scoresheet for easily recording the running score.

 

    1. When a player makes a field goal, the game officials will signal two or three-point shot. However, they do not indicate the number of the player who scored. That is up to the official scorer to determine. That is another reason why the visiting team have a person at the scorers table. The official scorer can ask for help on who scored, but the final decision on what player to credit the points to rests with the official scorer. Mark a “2” or a “3” in the row for the player who scored and in the correct quarter of the game.
Guide to keeping a basketball scorebook

Player shooting a free throw

 

    1. Before a player makes a free throw attempt, draw an open circle in the row for that player and in the quarter of play. If it is a one and one free throw situation, write a plus next to the circle. If the player makes the free throw, color in the circle.

 

  1. When the quarter ends (or the half end for college men’s games), record the total team points for both teams.

To clarify, you do not record every field goal that is attempted. You only record the field goals that are made. But, you do record free throws attempted and free throws made.

The end of each quarter is also a good time to compare with the scoreboard operator and the other team’s scorebook keeper to make sure everyone’s records match.

Other In Game Recording Responsibilities

If you are keeping an unofficial scorebook, you might want to also record assists, rebounds, total field goals attempted, or steals. Those are the responsibilities of the team’s statisticians and not the responsibility of the person keeping the official game scorebook.

    1. The scorebook has a place to record the quarters in the game that each player played. It is important to have this correct as most levels of play have a limit on how many quarters a player can play in one day and in one season. When a player enters the game, or starts a quarter, be sure to record that in the scorebook.

 

    1. If a player is going to substitute into the game, they will report to you and give you their number. Write down the player’s number, the quarter, and the game time remaining in the quarter in your notebook. This is important because a player is not allowed to leave the game and then come back in without any time having gone off the game clock. At times, the officials will refer to the person keeping the official scorebook to verify if a player is eligible to return or not.
How to keep a basketball scorebook (complete guide)

Official signaling one free throw

 

    1. When an official calls a foul, they will blow their whistle to stop play. They will then will signal the number of the player who was assessed the foul. Put a slash mark for the number of each foul committed by an individual player. You should also note if the foul is a personal foul or a technical foul. A technical foul also counts as a personal foul and a team foul. There is a space for a technical foul that is assessed to either coaching staff.

 

    1. At the bottom of the page there will be a row to keep track of team fouls. Each time a foul is assessed to an individual, you must also record it toward the team fouls total.

 

    1. When a team calls a time-out, make sure to write down the quarter and the time remaining in the quarter. The official book is the official record of time-outs called. Normally during a timeout, the officials will ask the official scorekeeper how many timeouts each team has remaining to use. They will then report the timeouts remaining to the coaches of both teams.

 

You should say out loud every time you record something. That allows the other team’s scorer as well as the scoreboard operator to know what the official counts are.

Post Game Scorebook Responsibilities

    1. The scorebook needs to be totaled at the end of the game so that the coaches have a record of the game.

 

    1. Total the number of two point baskets, three point baskets, free throws attempted, free throws and individual points for players on both teams. There is a column for each of these in the scorebook.

 

    1. The home team and visiting team scorebooks should be compared to make sure that all points, fouls, quarters played, and free throws match. If there is a media representative covering the game, they might want to compare their scorebook with yours to have an accurate report.

 

    1. .Make sure that the scorebook is given to one of the coaches from your team.

 

Learn to Keep a basketball scorebook

Keeping the official scorebook at basketball games is an important, but thankless job. The only time most people notice the person keeping the scorebook is if there is a mistake or a problem. But keep in mind, an official game cannot be played unless there is an official scorebook.

You are doing a great service to the players and coaches by keeping a basketball scorebook. They might not thank you, but you get a big thank you from us! Both for your service and for reading our article!

Related posts:

Questions Parents Ask Basketball TrainersQuestions Basketball Parents Should Ask Trainers Film for College Basketball RecruitmentFilm Your Way To College Basketball Recruitment Success Healthiest Salad Dressing for Basketball PlayersHealthiest Salad Dressings for Basketball Players Basketball Bedroom IdeasBasketball Bedroom Ideas To Hold Court With

Filed Under: Basketball Parenting, blog

Welcome to Basketball Trainer -

your connection to expert & passionate basketball trainers in both your city and online. We are committed to your basketball success.

Basketball Trainer Swag and Tshirts
find basketball camps

Basketball Camps

🏀 Basketball camps are a slam dunk for players of all skill levels! Whether you're a rookie or a pro, these educational programs provide training, guidance, and practical experience in the sport. 🎓 The duration of camps can vary from day-long to week-long overnight programs, tailored to suit different age groups and skill levels. Enrolling in a basketball camp is a smart move … Click Here To Learn More...

Intrinsic and Extrinsic motivation in basketball

Extrinsic and Intrinsic Motivation in Basketball: Their Roles in Success and Happiness

A note to our valued team: Gang, Obviously we are facing some effort and motivation challenges this weekend.  This is inevitable during the course of a long select basketball season and I have had several teams deal with this specifically on Memorial Day Weekend.    On the other hand, we didn’t see our opponents struggle with […]

Private vs. Small Group Basketball Training: Which Helps Most in Development?

When it comes to honing your basketball skills, there are various training options available, but the two primary ones compared are private vs small group basketball training . Private basketball training and small group personalized basketball training are two popular choices that cater to different preferences and goals. As an Austin Basketball Trainer for over […]

Augmented Reality Basketball Training

Augmented Reality Basketball Training Tools to Level Up

Introduction: Revolutionizing The Game With Augmented Reality Basketball Training Augmented Reality Basketball Training is here and it will only gain velocity in the future.  Augmented Reality (AR) is redefining basketball training, offering innovative solutions that merge digital advancements with traditional training techniques. By incorporating AR into their training regimes, players and coaches can unlock a […]

How to Create Basketball highlight video reel

Create Your Basketball Highlight Video Reel for Recruitment

Highlight Reel Worksheet: Showcasing Your Skills to College Coaches Step 1: Set Your Goals Objective: Define the purpose of your highlight reel. Is it for recruitment, showcasing skills, or both? Target Audience: Identify the specific college coaches or programs you want to impress. Step 2: Gather Your Footage Game Footage: List the games or events […]

Basketball Peer Parenting - How To Get Along With Other Parents

Basketball Peer Parenting: How To Get Along With Team Parents

Introduction to Basketball Peer Parenting: How to Get Along With Team Parents – A Comprehensive Guide Basketball, often seen just as a sport, is in reality a vibrant tapestry of growth, teamwork, and community. It’s a world where each bounce of the ball echoes lessons beyond the court and where every game is more than […]

Questions parents to ask basketball players

Top Questions for Parents to Ask Basketball Players

Introduction: Ever notice how great teachers ask us all the right questions… and if so what are the top questions for parents to ask basketball players?  In the vibrant tapestry of a child’s journey through basketball, the role of a parent is not just that of a spectator but a trusted companion and guide. Imagine […]

Basketball Post-Game Reflection Worksheet

Basketball Post-Game Reflection Worksheet: Unlock Success Now!

  Our Basketball Post-Game Reflection Worksheet will show you the journey to success is not merely about the countless hours of practice or the relentless pursuit of victory. It is a journey filled with self-discovery, growth, and the constant quest for improvement. This is where the art of post-game reflection in basketball comes into play, […]

Mental Mastery Checklist for Basketball Training Sessions

Mental Mastery Checklist for Basketball Training Sessions

Alright, before we hit the court and our basketball training session, it’s time to get your head in the game with our Mental Mastery Checklist for Basketball Training Sessions.  This checklist will help you dial into the right mindset and set the stage for a killer session. Spend a few minutes to complete it.  Aim […]

Parenting Role In Basketball Player Development

Parenting Role In Basketball Player Development: Tips and Guide

The Parenting Role in Basketball Player Development is a difficult relationship between an emerging basketball talent and their parents with an intricate dance of trust, encouragement, and guidance. Across countless courts worldwide, whether they be in bustling cities or quiet rural towns, it’s evident that the foundational years of a basketball enthusiast heavily depend on […]

Basketball Visualization Tips and Theories

Basketball Visualization Tips and Theories To Master The Court

1.1. The Power of Visualization in Sports Basketball Visualization Tips and Theories, often known as mental rehearsal or imagery, is a powerful tool used by athletes around the world to enhance performance. By mentally rehearsing a specific move or play, players can solidify their skills, refine strategies, and prepare for the unpredictable nature of live […]

How to Learn from Basketball Pros

How To Learn From Basketball Pros: Lessons from Elite Players

I. Introduction 🏀 A. “How To Learn From Basketball Pros: Lessons From Elite Players” reveals the Magic of Basketball 🪄 – Basketball is like magic on the court, where players perform incredible feats and make the impossible seem possible. – Think about players like Stephen Curry 🌟, known for his amazing shooting skills, making three-pointers […]

Mastering Focus and Concentration: The Key to Basketball Success

Mastering Focus and Concentration: The Key to Basketball Success

I. INTRODUCTION Importance of Focus in Basketball 🧐 Focus and concentration in basketball is the key to success and the secret sauce that sets champions apart. Whether you’re an aspiring high school player with dreams of college scholarships 📚 or a seasoned pro in the big leagues 🏀, the power of unwavering concentration can be […]

Basketball Analytics Quiz: Game Changer for Players

Basketball Analytics Quiz: Game Changer for Players

Welcome to a great test of basketball knowledge with our basketball analytics quiz. Are you ready to delve deep into the fascinating world of basketball analytics? Our Basketball Analytics Trivia Quiz is designed to challenge and enlighten, offering you a unique opportunity to explore the numbers behind the game. Basketball isn’t just about dribbles, dunks, […]

Evaluating Your Progress in Preseason Basketball

Evaluating Your Progress in Preseason Basketball

Welcome to the thrilling world of preseason basketball! As a passionate basketball enthusiast, you understand the emotional rollercoaster that comes with striving for excellence on the court. Preseason is the crucible where players transform, and dreams take shape. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the emotional journey of evaluating your progress in preseason basketball, equipping […]

Off-The-Court Basketball Training To Accelerate

Off-The-Court Basketball Training To Accelerate

Off-the-court basketball training is a transformative approach that has revolutionized how players prepare for the game. In this fast-paced and highly competitive sport, the significance of off-the-court training cannot be overstated. It encompasses a range of activities that focus on skill development, physical conditioning, mental preparation, and overall well-being outside the basketball court. Evidence: Consider […]

Basketball Speed Drills

Basketball Speed Drills: Essential To Accelerating Your Performance

Are your ready to unleash your inner speedster beast and dominate the court with these proven basketball speed drills? Great! Here is a overview list of some classic speed drills that can help improve your basketball skills: Line drills: These drills involve running back and forth across the court, usually using lines or cones as markers. Examples include shuttle runs, suicides, and figure … ...Click Link To Read More

How To Get On An AAU Basketball Team

How To Get On An AAU Basketball Team or Select Club

Are you a ambitious and hungry basketball player who wants to play for an AAU basketball team program?  Are you the parents of a player who wants more?  We got you... read on and soak this up! The BasketballTrainer.com Insider's Guide will tell you how to get on an AAU team and challenge yourself with the best players in your area and beyond so you can accelerate your learning curve and … Click Link To Read More

Basketball Parenting Tips

Basketball Parents: 17 Actions You Can Take For Players Right Now

Being a parent of a basketball player is no easy feat. Whether you are a basketball mom or dad, it is important that you are there to support your son or daughter in the best way possible. This article will help guide basketball parents on how they can be the perfect supporter of their child right now. From understanding the fundamentals of the game to creating an atmosphere conducive to success, … Click here to read more...

Basketball Tryout Tips To Make the team

Basketball Tryout Tips To Make The Team (Guide)

Our Basketball Tryouts Tips Guide can help you overcome the often nerve-wracking nature of tryout day.  Remember we are rarely nervous about activities that we don't love. Channel your nerves as excitement not as anxiety. You want to make sure you're doing everything you can to make the team. Here are a few tips to help you put your best foot forward at your next basketball tryout. Basketball

Basketball Analytics & Calculators Players Should Know

True Shooting Percentage (TS%) Calculator







Your True Shooting Percentage (TS%) is:

Assist-to-Turnover Ratio (ATR) Calculator




Your Assist-to-Turnover Ratio (ATR) is:

Usage Rate (USG%) Calculator








Your Usage Rate (USG%) is:

ted').value); const usg = 100 * ((fga + (0.44 * fta) + turnovers) * (1.0 / (fga + (0.44 * fta) + turnovers + (0.44 * fta)))); document.getElementById('usg-result').textContent = usg.toFixed(2) + '%'; }
AUSTIN BASKETBALL CAMP

AUSTIN BASKETBALL CAMP

WELCOME TO BASKETBALL TRAINER…

your connection to expert & passionate basketball trainers, basketball teams, basketball camps and all basketball products and apps designed to improve your game.  We are committed to your basketball success.

Meet our team and learn more about our mission.  Click here…

Featured Course

basketball course of the week

There are many basketball courses for all skills, ages, budgets and goals.   We help you sift thru all the garbage to find the goals for each of … Learn more...

Featured Drill

 We Hope You Enjoyed The Basketball Trainer Drill of The Month Special Thanks To Friend USC Coach Chris Capko for his excellent teaching and my … Learn more...

Featured Product / App

The BasketballTrainer.com team is comprised of former college &  pro players and coaches focused on the needs of American youth basketball … Learn more...

Have A Basketball Biz?

Our team gathers basketball training resources from basketball trainers and in some cases for basketball trainers and their students.  Stay tuned for … Learn More

AustinYouthBasketball.com
BasketballHQ.com
CoachTube.com
CoachingBasketball.com
BasketballCoach.org
BuzzworthyBasketballMarketing.com

© Copyright 2025 Basketball Trainer

Design by BuzzworthyBasketballMarketing.com

Privacy Policy