Rules July 2025 - Playing the ball - Rule 7.3

Rule around zero step has been expanded to include scenario when a player catches the ball, while in the air, after a bounce/dribble.

It is permitted to take a maximum of 3 steps with the ball (13:1a) after receiving the ball from another player or catching the ball after bouncing. If a player receives or catches the ball while his feet have no contact with the floor, putting one foot or both feet simultaneously down on the floor is not counted as a step.

One step is considered taken when:

1. a player who is standing with both feet on the floor lifts one foot and puts it down

   again, or moves one foot from one place to another.

2. a player is touching the floor with one foot only, catches the ball and then touches the floor with the other foot.

3. a player after a jump touches the floor with one foot only, and then hops on the same foot or touches the floor with the other foot.

4. a player after a jump touches the floor with both feet simultaneously, and then lifts one foot and puts it down again, or moves one foot from one place to another.

See the 3 examples of this new rule in action:

Scenario 1

After bouncing the ball, the attacker controls it in the air, then places:

Right foot: Step 0

Left foot: Step1

Right foot: Step 2

And jumps onto left foot: Step 3

Decision: Play continues - 7-meter throw: Defender No. 62 Red defends in the zone

Scenario 2

Attacker bounces the ball and controls it in the air, before landing on her right foot.

She then takes three steps before jumping.

No violation is committed.

Decision: Play continues

Scenario 3

The attacker bounces the ball and controls it in the air before landing on her right foot. She then takes three steps before jumping (Left - Right - Left).

No violation is committed.

Decision: Play continues