A loose ball refers to any ball that is not currently in the possession of a player. This situation occurs after a missed shot, a fumbled pass, or a tipped ball. Both teams must scramble to gain control of the ball to start a new play. Players often dive or stretch to secure the ball before it goes out of bounds. A center dives on a loose ball after a defender knocks it away. Quick reactions during these moments can turn a defensive play into a scoring opportunity. Securely grabbing the ball with two hands is the best way to claim possession. One real-world example features two players lunging for a ball rolling toward the sideline.
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