Wheelchair basketball highlights evolving classification system for fair play

The 14-point limit requires coaches to carefully balance their lineups. A team might field three players classified at four points and two at one point, or combine three two-point players with two four-point players. Although both lineups total 14 points, they offer different tactical advantages, Xue said.

Players with higher classifications may strengthen rebounding and inside play, while teammates with lower classifications can contribute in other ways. "Coaches should consider how different combinations work together," Xue said.

Moreover, unlike in able-bodied basketball, where a coach may replace one player at a time, wheelchair basketball teams may make paired substitutions to maintain the required points balance, he added.

In individual sports such as swimming and athletics, athletes are placed in classes based on how their impairments affect performance in their events.

"Different impairment types and levels require separate classes, so para sports have more medal events than many able-bodied sports," Song said.