How is the closely-guarded distance measured?

The measurement of closely-guarded distance is specifically determined by the space between the forward hand or arm of the defender and the forward hand or arm of the player with the ball. This defined measurement is critical in the context of basketball because it establishes whether a defensive player is in a position to actively contest the dribble or shot attempt of the ball handler.

In this situation, the importance of measuring from the forward extremities helps to ensure that the defender is genuinely applying pressure, which is a fundamental aspect of defensive strategy. The rule is enforced to encourage active defense and provide opportunities for the offense to advance the ball effectively.

Other methods of measuring, such as the distance from the sideline or baseline, do not address the dynamic interaction between the defense and the offense that is encapsulated in the concept of "closely guarded." Similarly, measuring from the referee to the player does not accurately reflect the immediate pressure a defender applies to the ball handler. Thus, the correct measurement between the defender's forward hand/arm and that of the ball handler accurately represents the context needed for the closely-guarded rule in basketball.