What defines a "personal foul" in NCAA basketball?

A personal foul in NCAA basketball is defined by physical contact that provides an unfair advantage to one player over another. This rule is designed to maintain the integrity of competition by preventing one player from using excessive or inappropriate physical force to gain an edge in the game.

Such fouls can occur in various situations, like pushing, holding, or hitting an opponent. This emphasis on physical contact ensures that the game remains fair and competitive, as it accounts for the physical nature of basketball while also protecting players from excessive aggression.

The other options do not accurately capture the definition of a personal foul. Minor infractions do not typically constitute personal fouls, nor does intimidation without physical contact. Additionally, miscalculating game time is unrelated to player conduct or physical interactions during the game. The focus on unfair advantage through physical contact is what distinctly classifies a personal foul in collegiate basketball rules.