What occurs if a player is called for a double dribble after previously dribbling the ball?

When a player is called for a double dribble, the game is impacted in a specific way. A double dribble occurs when a player dribbles the ball, stops their dribble, and then begins to dribble again. This action violates the rules of basketball, and as a result, the ball is declared dead. When the referee makes this call, the opposing team is awarded possession of the ball, bringing the play to a halt and shifting the opportunity to the other side.

This ruling ensures that the game maintains fairness and flow, preventing one player from gaining an unfair advantage through improper handling of the ball. It does not result in awarding free throws or a technical foul, nor does play continue normally. Declaring the ball dead allows for an orderly transition of possession on the court.