blocking

sports

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The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

June 22, 2026

Quick Summary

In sports, "blocking" refers to the act of legally interfering with an opponent to prevent them from advancing or making a play. This action is crucial in many sports, such as football, where offensive linemen block defensive players to protect the quarterback or create running lanes. In basketball, players block shots to prevent the opposing team from scoring. The term can also apply to preventing access or connection, such as blocking a user on social media.1

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basketball
Rules
…in basketball include the following:
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…in basketball include the following:
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lacrosse
The game
Blocking the ballcarrier—i.e., hitting him with the shoulder in an attempt to throw him off-balance or knock him down—is legal. For minor infractions of the rules the penalty is either suspension from the game for 30 seconds or an exchange of the ball. In the…
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Blocking the ballcarrier—i.e., hitting him with the shoulder in an attempt to throw him off-balance or knock him down—is legal. For minor infractions of the rules the penalty is either suspension from the game for 30 seconds or an exchange of the ball. In the…
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