[billyu2]

Would like some opinions on the questions below. The NFHS Officials Manual contains very little instruction on this important aspect of the game so your answers may be very helpful to many who use The Forum.

Question #1
If the ruling official (on a last-second attempt outside of his/her primary coverage area) is unsure if the ball was released in time and the try ends up being successful, should the ruling official go ahead and count the basket, or first go to the other officials to see if they had definite knowledge before making a ruling?

Question #2
When a contested last-second play is in progress from the ruling official’s coverage area, what should the non-ruling officials be focused on or looking for?

Question #3
Referee’s final decision: A game-winning try is attempted by a low post player in the Lead’s coverage area. Amidst heavy defensive pressure on the release, the Lead can clearly see the ball still touching the shooter’s fingers as the horn sounds. The ball banks off the board and goes in. The ruling official felt the ball was released in time and counts the basket. The official’s manual says the non-ruling official should go to the ruling official for a discussion. Assuming the two officials maintain their differing opinions, what would your final decision be if you were:
(a) The Referee as well as the ruling official.
(b) The Referee as well as the Lead official.
(c) The Referee and the third official.

Thanks in advance.

Billy