WNBA adopt new rules regarding flopping and defensive 3 seconds; extend the 3p line

WNBA today has announced changes in rules for the 2013 season.

On par with NBA, the W will review videos of players flopping and hand them penalties.

According to the league ““Flopping” will be defined as any physical act that, upon review, reasonably appears to have been intended to cause the referees to call a foul on another player.”

Watch out Danielle Adams!

In preparation of Brittney Griner entering the league, the W has instituted a new defesnive three-second rule to avoid Phoenix just parking her under the basket. After each violation of the rule, the offensive team will get to shoot one technical freethrow and get the ball back.

For the first time since 2004, the WNBA has extended it’s three-point line’s distance from the hoop. It has been increased from 20 feet, 6 1/4 inches (6.2548 m) to 22 feet, 1 3/4 inches (6.75 m), on par with the distance in international competitions.

WNBA has also slightly changed what can be reviewed by the referees during games:

Whereas previous rules allowed for replay review of Flagrant Foul 2’s but not Flagrant Foul 1’s, the level of the foul will now be assigned only after the play has been reviewed. Replay procedures are also being instituted during the final minute of regulation and overtime if officials determine the offensive player committed the illegal contact but are uncertain as to whether the defender was inside or outside the restricted area.