The duration of a standard National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) basketball contest is structured around two halves, each lasting 20 minutes. This results in a total of 40 minutes of playing time. However, the overall event extends beyond this playing time due to various stoppages.
Numerous factors contribute to the extended timeframe. These include timeouts requested by coaches, fouls committed by players, and the intermission period between the two halves. Instant replay reviews, implemented to ensure accurate officiating, can also add to the elapsed time. Historically, the game’s structure has evolved to accommodate television broadcasts and advertising opportunities, indirectly influencing the overall length.
