In basketball, traveling is a violation that occurs when a player takes too many steps without dribbling the ball. It is also called "walking" or "steps" in streetball games. The usual rule of thumb is that a player may only take two steps without dribbling the ball. However, the NBA and FIBA allow players to take more than two steps before dribbling, but only if they take a "gather step" before taking the two steps. There are numerous situations in basketball that are considered traveling violations. Below are some examples:
- A player holding the ball starts walking without dribbling.
- A player receives a pass while running and takes three (or more) steps before dribbling.
- A player lifts their pivot foot or drags it on the floor without passing, shooting, or dribbling first.
- A player in possession of the ball falls to the ground and then gets up while holding the ball without dribbling it.
Its important to note that lifting the pivot foot alone does not constitute a travel, and a player may pass, shoot, or request a timeout in this situation. If a player dives and catches a loose ball on the floor, they may legally slide as far as their momentum carries them, but once they stop, they may not roll over or attempt to stand. When the referee calls a travel, it results in a turnover and the ball being given to the opposing team.
