General

the key

What does the key mean?

The painted area immediately under the basket stretching out to the free-throw line, named for its old keyhole shape.

"You can't camp in the key for more than three seconds."

Originally keyhole-shaped, hence 'the key.'

What is the key in basketball?

The key is the painted area under the basket stretching out to the free-throw line, also called the lane or the paint.

Why is it called the key?

The area was originally narrower and keyhole-shaped, with the free-throw circle forming the round part, hence 'the key.'

What is the three-second rule in the key?

An offensive player cannot remain in the key for more than three consecutive seconds while their team has the ball, or it's a violation.

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