Which team has the initial possession arrow set at the beginning of the game?

At the beginning of a basketball game, the initial possession arrow is set to favor one of the teams for the first jump ball. However, following the jump ball to start the game, the possession arrow is used to determine which team will get the next possession after a held ball situation occurs.

In standard NFHS basketball rules, the possession arrow alternates after each quarter. This means that at the beginning of the first quarter, the arrow points to one team, and then it will switch to the other team at the start of the second quarter. This alternating system continues for the entirety of the game, ensuring fairness and equal opportunity for both teams to gain possession during situations where there would be a held ball.

This approach helps to manage possessions in a systematic manner, eliminating controversies that may arise from jump balls after the initial tip-off. Hence, the understanding of how the possession arrow operates is crucial for anyone involved in coaching, officiating, or playing the game, ensuring clarity and consistency throughout the match.