Overview
Points are scored quickly in basketball, and the score board operator has to update the score board any time either of the competing teams makes a field goal or a free throw. Additionally, a score board operator has to control the score board clock that tells the referees, the players, the coaches and everyone in attendance how much time is left in each quarter. Score board operators must keep track of fouls, player eligibility and player substitutions.
Step 1
Start the score clock when the game starts. The referee will begin the game with a jump ball and the clock will count down from that point. Stop the clock when the referee blows the whistle, indicating a foul, a violation or a time out.
Step 2
Record all points scored on the score board. If the visiting team hits a two-point field goal, give them credit for two points on the score board. If the home team hits a three-point field goal, add in three points to their total. The referee will signal a three-point field goal attempt by raising an arm over his head. If the basket is made, he will put his other hand over his head. Add one point to either team's score for making a successful free throw.
Step 3
Indicate which players are in the game at the time by lighting their name up on the score board. You will be given a roster by each team before the game. Input their names onto the score board and highlight active players as they report in to the game.
Step 4
Keep track of the number of team and individual fouls committed as the game proceeds. At the high school level, teams will be allowed to have four team fouls per quarter. When the next team foul is committed, the opponent goes into the "bonus" for free-throw shooting. Alert the referees when a team goes into the bonus.
Step 5
Keep track of all time outs. Each team will get two to three time outs per half, depending on the state and level of the game. If a team has used all its timeouts and attempts to call another, you must call over the referee and alert her so she can call a technical foul, which will result in free throws for the opponent.
