jump ball

noun

: a method of putting a basketball into play by tossing it into the air between two opponents who jump up and attempt to tap the ball to a teammate
also : a ball put into play in this manner

Examples of jump ball in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Daniels heaved the ball downfield on fourth-and-31 from the 46, but this time, the jump ball was intercepted by Bryce Fitzgerald. — Adam Lichtenstein, Sun Sentinel, 18 Oct. 2026 Dream star Angel Reese loves to get involved in every play and wreak havoc, whether by forcing jump balls or making steals. — ABC News, 16 Oct. 2026 Sutton ran to the back corner of the end zone for a jump ball from Nix. — Parker Gabriel, Denver Post, 21 Sep. 2026 Craig completed the 9-yard jump ball in the end zone with 17 seconds remaining in the quarter. — Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 20 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for jump ball

Word History

First Known Use

1924, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of jump ball was in 1924

Rhymes for jump ball

See All Rhymes for jump ball

Browse Nearby Words

jump bail
jump ball
jump bid
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Jump ball.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/jump%20ball. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on jump ball

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about jump ball

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