Officials told to call fouls on secondary defenders under basket

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- NCAA basketball officials will begin calling fouls on secondary defenders under the basket this season in an attempt to curb injuries.

John Adams, national coordinator for men's basketball officiating, said Tuesday that referees will call fouls on secondary defenders who make contact with a shooter while standing directly under the rim.

Another new rule will allow the opposing coach to choose someone already on the floor to shoot a free throw in place of an injured player.

Officials will also pay closer attention to intentional and flagrant fouls, and to 3-second calls to clear up rough play underneath. The officials also have been told to call fouls if a player's balance or speed is impeded, not just if it provides an advantage.