When does improper substitution occur?

Improper substitution occurs in several specific scenarios, which is why the answer encompasses all the provided situations.

A substitute entering the court before the second referee has directed them to do so is considered improper because it violates the established procedure for substitutions. Each substitution must be controlled and signaled properly to ensure that the timing of player changes doesn’t disrupt the flow of the game or violate any rules set by the governing body.

Additionally, players not taking correct exchange positions also constitutes an improper substitution. The rules require players to enter and exit from designated areas on the court to maintain order during gameplay. Deviating from this can lead to confusion about player positions and who is currently in the game.

Moreover, substitution numbers not being reported correctly to the second referee can affect the tracking of players participating in the game. Accurate reporting is essential for record-keeping and officiating purposes. If numbers do not match, it can lead to mismanagement of players on the court, which can have implications for team strategy and compliance with rules.

Combining these scenarios illustrates that improper substitution encompasses a range of potential infractions, thereby making the answer that includes all these points the most accurate. Understanding these rules is essential for maintaining the integrity of the game and ensuring fair play.