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1985structural

Coaches' Box Established on Sideline

The Rule Change

The NBA established a designated coaches' box along the sideline, restricting where head coaches could stand during play. Coaches were required to remain within the 28-foot area between the baseline and the mid-court line on their side of the scorer's table.

Statistical Impact

Formalized sideline behavior and reduced confrontational interactions between coaches and referees. The rule set boundaries on coaching theater — no more following officials up and down the court — while still allowing coaches to be actively engaged during play.

3-Year Average: Before vs. After

StatBeforeAfterChange
PPG109.1110.3+1.2
Pace101.8101.7-0.1
3PA2.33.7+1.4
FTA28.930.1+1.2
FG%48.948.6-0.3

Statistical Context (19771993)