What must happen before a substitute can enter the game between quarters or during a time-out?

Before a substitute can enter the game between quarters or during a time-out, the key requirement is that the substitute must report to the official. This process ensures that the referee is aware of the substitution and can manage the game effectively. The official must acknowledge the player, signaling that the substitute is approved to enter the game.

The answer provided indicates that the substitute must report to the scorer, which does not align with the correct protocol. While the scorer is important for recording the statistics of the game, the procedure for substitutions prioritizes the communication with the officiating crew first. Reporting to the official allows for accurate management of player entries and exits, maintaining the integrity of the game.