NCAA Approves Coach’s Challenge, Modernizes Rules

The NCAA Playing Rules Oversight Panel has approved major rule changes for men's college basketball beginning in the 2025–26 season, introducing a coach’s challenge system for the first time. Coaches may challenge out-of-bounds, basket interference/goaltending, and restricted-area arc calls at any point if they have a timeout; a successful challenge grants a second, while an unsuccessful one ends further challenges for that game. These changes aim to reduce lengthy official-initiated video reviews and improve game flow, particularly in the final minutes of games. Officials still retain independent review powers on timing, scoring, flagrant fouls, and specific late-game situations. The continuous motion rule for offensive players has been expanded, and officials are now permitted to call a Flagrant 1 foul for contact to the groin. The NCAA is also considering a future shift from halves to quarters, reflecting a broader effort to modernize the sport and align more closely with NBA standards.