What governs the five-second closely-guarded count in basketball?

The five-second closely-guarded count in basketball is governed by the requirement that the player with the ball must be closely guarded. This rule specifically applies when an offensive player is being defended closely by a defender. The closely-guarded situation is defined as a defender being within six feet of the offensive player holding the ball, which initiates the five-second count. If the offensive player does not pass, shoot, or dribble the ball within that time frame while being closely guarded, it will result in a turnover and the opposing team will gain possession.

The other choices misrepresent essential aspects of the rule. While the referee uses their judgment to determine if the defend is considered closely guarding or not, the fundamental trigger for starting the five-second count is indeed the proximity of the defender. The rule also applies in various game situations and is not limited exclusively to the offensive zone—the count can occur anywhere on the court as long as the conditions are met.