jump ball

noun

Basketball.

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

jump ball

noun

1. 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

Word History and Origins

Origin of jump ball¹

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

Instead, it went to a jump ball, Jackson got charged for a personal, and Rivers went to the free-throw line.

From Los Angeles Times

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

From Los Angeles Times

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

From Los Angeles Times

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

From Seattle Times

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

From Seattle Times