[BillyMac]

This situation was discussed among a group of local experienced officials a few nights ago.

A1's pass is intercepted by B1. B1 then jumps in the air to pass the ball to a teammate and sees they are not open. B1 then, before landing, starts a dribble. The official calls a traveling violation. Is the official correct?

Some answered: As long as B1 releases the ball to hit the floor before they return to the floor, this is not a traveling violation.

I disagree.

4-44-3-C: After coming to a stop and establishing a pivot foot: The pivot foot may not be lifted before the ball is released to start a dribble.

4-44-4-B After coming to a stop when neither foot can be a pivot: Neither foot may be lifted before the ball is released, to start a dribble.

Would it be different if B1 was still airborne (while making the steal) and started the dribble while still airborne (having never established a pivot foot) before landing?

I believe that that would be legal.

Comments?