jump ball

noun

Basketball.

a ball tossed into the air above and between two opposing players by the referee in putting the ball into play.

jump ball

noun

basketball a ball thrown high by the referee between two opposing players to put it in play, as after a stoppage in which no foul or violation was committed

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Word History and Origins

Origin of jump ball¹

First recorded in 1920–25

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

They did to start the game, Kobe Johnson reaching in to force a jump ball before the first point had been scored.

From

He throws up what looks like a jump ball until you realize the pass actually is directed to a leaping receiver.

From

On the ensuing possession, Clark lost the ball and during the scramble, Jordan Horston forced a jump ball against Aliyah Boston.

From

A jump ball was called, and Doncic retrieved the loose ball with Dallas up three.

From

Less than a minute later, he mysteriously lost a jump ball against 6-2 Clippers guard Xavier Moon, much to the amusement of the other Rockets players.

From

jump bail jump bid

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