NBA tightens traveling violations with new language

NBA club owners on Friday announced they have approved new langauge in the league rule book clarifying traveling violations so officials can better apply the regulations in games.

The NBA board of governors also approved a new rule requiring starting lineups be submitted 30 minutes before tipoff rather than 10 minutes in advance, that and the traveling rule change both being recommended unanimously by the league's competition committee.

"One of the most misunderstood rules in our game is how traveling is interpreted and appropriately called," said Byron Spruell, NBA president of league operations.

"Revising the language of certain areas of the rule is part of our three-pronged approach to address the uncertainty around traveling.

This approach also includes an enforcement plan to make traveling a point of emphasis for our officiating staff, along with an aggressive education plan to increase understanding of the rule by players, coaches, media and fans."