What are the major rule differences between the NBA and the WNBA?
A. Most of the rules are identical, but some of the basics are different. WNBA games consist of two 20-minute halves, instead of the NBA’s four 12-minute quarters. The shot clock rule gives WNBA teams 30 seconds to shoot the basketball; NBA teams have 24 seconds. Women play with a smaller basketball than men, one with a circumference of 28.5 inches, like the basketball used by women in college and high school. The WNBA basketball also has its own orange-and-oatmeal color scheme. The women’s three-point line is 19 feet 9 inches, as in NCAA competition (the NBA’s line is 23-9 at its farthest point and 22 feet at the corners). The WNBA shooting lane is 12 feet wide, four feet narrower than the NBA’s. One of the most noticeable differences between the WNBA and the NBA is that women are permitted to use a zone defense. So, fans won’t hear whistles and see players shooting technicals for illegal defense in the WNBA. Q. How much do WNBA players make in salary? A. Not nearly as much as their N
