9‑Ball — Quick Rules

Overview

• Balls 1–9 and a cue ball. You must contact the lowest‑numbered ball first.
• Any ball pocketed on a legal hit stays down. The 9 may be pocketed early via carom or combo; that wins the rack (unless local call‑shot is required).

Rack & Break

• Diamond rack with the 1 on the foot spot and the 9 in the center.
• A legal break: cue ball strikes the 1 first, and at least one ball is pocketed or three balls contact cushions (house/tour variations exist).

Legal Shot & Push‑Out

• Always contact the lowest ball first; then pocket any ball or drive any ball to a cushion.
• Immediately after the break, the incoming player may call a push‑out (no contact or rail requirements). Opponent may accept or pass the next shot.

Fouls

• No lowest‑ball contact; no rail after contact; scratch; cue ball or any ball off table.
• Three‑foul rule (with warning) may apply: three consecutive fouls by the same player = loss of rack.

End of Rack

• Legally pocket the 9 after a legal hit on the lowest ball.
• 9 on the break counts as a win in many leagues (some spot it).