So how much do you know? Take our quiz on b-ball savvy...
1) How many minutes are in a game?
2) What is the opening play of the game?
3) How many fouls is each player allowed per game?
4) How many time-outs?
5) How many players from one team are allowed on the court at one time?
6) What is traveling?
7) What is blocking?
8) List two common violations.
Don't know the answers? Either ask your b-ball coach (high school or college) or check out NBA's page on the pro's "official rules": http://www.nba.com/basic/rules
Rules of Etiquette
As with cheerleaders, there are certain times when you should and should not interact with the team and the fans--so that the experience is maximized for everyone (and so you don't get booted from the stadium!).
When you Should...
At the beginning of the game when the team runs on the court
When your team attempts to score
Following an outstanding play by your team
When your team has scored
Time-outs during the game
When an injured player leaves the court to acknowledge his efforts
When the game has ended
When a substitution is made
When you Shouldn't...
When a free throw is being attempted
When an opponent errs
If an opponent is penalized
If a player is injured
When performing interferes with the ref or the team
The Most Opportune Times to Perform
Before you strut your stuff on the court, make sure you speak to the coaches or the officials to verify the amount of time you have out there. (Make sure not to talk to the official where the fans can see you--remember mascots do not talk in costume!)
Be sure the players are off the floor before you take over!
Follow the signals that you get from the officials.
Communicating with visiting or home mascots
Before the game starts, you and the mascot of the opposing team should meet to discuss how the two of you will be taking turns performing at time-outs, whether you'll be interacting together, etc. It's a good time to share info about where the bathroom is, where they can get beverages, etc. It's a good idea to talk to the other team's cheerleaders as well (Remember--not in costume!)
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