What should an official do when a player is injured on the court?

When a player is injured on the court, the appropriate action for an official is to stop the game for assessment and recovery. This is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, player safety is a top priority. Stopping the game allows medical personnel, if available, to assess the player's condition without the risk of further harm. It also provides an opportunity for the injured player to receive any necessary care.

By halting play, the official ensures that all players on the court are aware of the situation and can respond appropriately, either by retreating from the area or awaiting instructions. This is essential in maintaining a safe environment for all athletes involved.

In contrast, ignoring the injury and continuing play not only compromises the injured player's well-being but could also pose risks to other players. Assuming players can self-regulate injuries disregards the fact that many injuries can significantly impair a player’s ability to make safe decisions on the court. Allowing only a time-out for the injured player might not provide enough time for proper assessment or treatment and does not address the immediate safety concerns that arise with player injuries.