Basketball is one of the most physically demanding sports, and there is always a possibility of players inadvertently colliding with each other. This is why there are certain regulations on players’ conduct to maintain fair competition. Among these rules is the regulation regarding personal fouls.
In the NBA, players are allowed a limited number of personal fouls before they are disqualified from the game. This pivotal aspect of the sport raises the question: How many fouls does it take to foul out in the NBA?
Maximum Number of Personal Fouls in the NBA
In the NBA, a player is fouled out of the game after accumulating a total of six personal fouls, as per the NBA. Once a player reaches this limit of six fouls, they are deemed ineligible to participate further in that particular game. This rule is in place to promote fair play, prevent overly aggressive or unsportsmanlike behavior from players.
It is always a strategic challenge for NBA players to defend in such a manner that they do not foul the opposition's offensive players. NBA defenders must balance their efforts without reaching the foul limit and being forced to exit the game.
Also Read: List of Fouls in the NBA
Fouls in FIBA Competitions
In FIBA basketball, if a player accumulates five personal fouls during the game, they are disqualified and must leave the playing area, as per FIBA. This means they cannot re-enter the game, and their team must continue without them.
Types of Fouls in the NBA
Understanding the types of fouls in the NBA is crucial for players, coaches and fans alike. Fouls are generally categorized into two main types: personal fouls and technical fouls.
Personal Fouls
These are the most common types of fouls and include illegal physical contact between players. Personal fouls can occur during offensive or defensive plays and are typically committed when a player makes illegal physical contact with an opponent.
The shooting fouls in basketball are also categorized as personal fouls. These shooting fouls occur when a player’s shooting motion is disrupted wrongfully. If a shooting foul happens, the fouled player is awarded two free throws.
Additionally, team fouls, distinct from shooting fouls, are incurred through players making illegal contact with opposition players. A team is permitted four team fouls in a quarter; however, upon reaching the fifth team foul, the opposing team is granted two free throws for each subsequent personal foul.
Technical Fouls
Technical fouls involve violations of the rules related to player conduct, such as arguing with referees, using profanity, or displaying unsportsmanlike behavior. Technical fouls result in one free throw for the opposing team, as per the NBA.
Also Read: List of National Basketball Association General Managers
Foul Records in the NBA
NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar tops the list for the most personal fouls in NBA history with a staggering 4,657 fouls, as per Basketball Reference. This record highlights Abdul-Jabbar's physical presence on the court throughout his illustrious career.
Among active NBA players, Chris Paul is notable for his position on the list of most fouls in NBA history. With 3,185 fouls to his name as of May 2025.
FAQ's on NBA Fouls
A. A player is disqualified from the game after he commits six personal fouls.
A. Each team is limited to four team fouls per quarter. On committing the fifth team foul, the opposition team gets two free throws for every subsequent foul.
A. Chris Paul from the San Antonio Spurs is an active NBA player with the most fouls, i.e., 3,185 fouls.
A. Cal Bowdler is the only player in the modern era of basketball to commit seven personal fouls during an NBA game.
