If a player’s number is different from what is listed in the scorer's book, does the official assess a technical foul if the player has not yet entered the game?

The correct answer reflects a key understanding of the rules regarding player identification and technical fouls in basketball. When a player's number does not match what is recorded in the scorer's book, a technical foul is not assessed until that player has entered the game. This is significant because the purpose of maintaining accurate records in the scorer's book is to ensure proper identification of players on the court when they are active participants in the game.

Before entering the game, the player is not deemed to be participating, and thus, any discrepancies regarding their number do not warrant immediate penalties. Once a player does enter the game, officials must ensure that all players are accurately accounted for; failure to do so then becomes an issue that could lead to a technical foul being assessed for the misidentification.

This understanding helps officials maintain game integrity and ensure that all players are properly documented, while also balancing the need for smooth gameplay without penalizing teams prematurely for discrepancies that do not affect active play.