Identical Numbers ???

[BillyMac]

The 0 and 00 thread got me thinking, can somebody please remind us in a simple way of all the permutations, penalties, and consequences of identical numbers in the book and/or playing in the game?

I realize that it's a purely academic (probably won't happen in a real game) situation, but I'd like it discussed to make sure that it's clear in my head, I do a lot of midafternoon middle school games and uniform problems do come up occasionally.

Any simple reminders?

After the 10-minute time limit specified in Article 1, a team is
charged with a maximum of one technical foul regardless of how many
infractions of the following are committed (see 10-1-2 Penalty):
e. Having identical numbers on team members and/or players.

A team shall not:
After the 10-minute time limit specified in Article 1:
e. Have identical numbers on team members and/or players.
Penalized when discovered.

3.2.2 SITUATION B: Three minutes before the game starts, it is discovered: (a) two Team B members have wrong numbers in the scorebook; or (b) two Team B team members are wearing the same number. RULING: In (a), if either or both team member’s number is changed in the scorebook, one technical foul is charged to Team B. If there is no request for change or if neither becomes a player, thus avoiding the change, there is no penalty. In (b), a technical foul is charged to Team B upon discovery of the identical numbers. Only one team member may wear a given number; the other must change to a number not already in use before participating. (10-1-2)

3.3.7 SITUATION A: B1 is directed to leave the game because of excessive blood on his/her uniform jersey. Team B does not have any extra jerseys. (a) The coach asks one of the substitutes to give his/her jersey to B1; or (b) Team A is able to find a jersey which B1 can wear although it is not exactly the same color or style of the Team B jersey. The jersey will, however, clearly identify B1 as a member of Team B and will not be confusing to either team or the officials. RULING: Acceptable procedure in both (a) and (b). In both situations the scorer will make necessary changes in the scorebook without penalty. COMMENT: The spirit and intent of the rule is to do everything possible to allow the player to use a different jersey and return without penalty. However, identical numbers shall not be allowed on the same team.

Is there a penalty if both are listed in the book after the ten minute mark?

Can one play and the other sit on the bench (never to play) with no penalties?

After technical fouls, what happens to these identically numbered players (what can they now "legally" do)?

I'm so confused.