jump ball

noun

: a method of putting a basketball into play by tossing it into the air between two opponents who jump up and attempt to tap the ball to a teammate

also : a ball put into play in this manner

Examples of jump ball in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Facing uncertainty before the opening jump ball was thrown into the air at Kia Center on Friday night, the Charlotte Hornets’ chartered plane had two possible destinations. —Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 19 Apr. 2026

Some confusion led to a 50/50 jump ball, which Miami won and worked in a cross, and Germán Berterame headed it in at the back post. —Braidon Nourse, Denver Post, 19 Apr. 2026

Scheierman, who also had seven assists, six rebounds, two steals and a block, outmuscled Carter on the ensuing possession to force a jump ball and help secure the win. —Zack Cox, Boston Herald, 13 Apr. 2026

James lost the jump ball on the following play, yet Smart secured a strip and steal seconds later to temporarily place the Lakers ahead 113-112 with a layup. —Benjamin Royer, Oc Register, 15 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1924, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for jump ball

• aldol
• armhole
• atoll
• awol
• backhaul
• banal
• baseball
• befall
• cabal
• catchall
• cecal
• centrale