OFFICIAL COMPETITION RULES

GAME FORMAT & STRUCTURE

  • The tournament operates under a standardized King of the Court competition system.
  • Teams compete in play-in games to determine placement and advancement.
  • The number of play-in games and advancement structure may vary by event.
  • Elimination rounds determine the event champion.
  • Only the champion from each Japan qualifier advances to the Tokyo Finals.
  • Tokyo Finals champions receive an invitation to the King of the Court World Finals in Melbourne, Australia.

SCORING SYSTEM & GAME FLOW

  • Games are played using a target score format. There is no running game clock.
  • Target scores are determined by the stage of competition.
  • Play-in games do not require a win-by-two margin.
  • Elimination rounds require a win-by-two margin.
  • After every made basket, the scoring team retains possession.
  • The ball is checked at the top of the key after each score.
  • The ball is live immediately upon check-in, and scoring is permitted instantly.

FOULS & FREE THROWS

  • Shooting fouls result in a three-point shot taken from the top of the key.
  • Make or miss, the shooting team retains possession (Ball Don't Lie).
  • And-one conversions count the basket and retain possession.

FLAGRANT FOULS & PLAYER SAFETY

  • Flagrant fouls are enforced to protect player safety.
  • Flagrant Foul 1 results in two free throws, retained possession, and the offending player sitting out for three scoring possessions.
  • Additional flagrant fouls or unsportsmanlike conduct may result in further penalties or disqualification at the discretion of tournament officials.

OUT OF BOUNDS & POSSESSION

  • All out-of-bounds situations result in a check ball at the top of the key.