[mick]

Originally posted by ChuckElias

Apparently not, b/c we've had at least two or three threads on this exact subject. The new rule appears to apply equally to offense and defense but we have not seen any case book plays to guide us on the intent of applying it to the defender.

LEAVING COURT FOR UNAUTHORIZED REASON CHANGED TO VIOLATION (9-3-2): The rule for leaving the court for an unauthorized reason has been changed from a technical foul to a violation. Leaving the court during the course of play has been increasing with the former penalty of a technical foul not being assessed. Typically, this play is seen when an offensive player goes around a low screen, runs outside the end line and returns on the other side of the court free of their defender. The violation will be called as soon as the player leaves the court. The committee hopes that changing the penalty will increase the likelihood of the infraction being called and eliminate this tremendous advantage.

It seems the intent is quite clear (i.e.,to eliminate the advantage to the offense) and to disregard the defense.
If we call the violation on the defense, then how could that not be an unintended disadvantage to the offense?

Calling the violation on the defense stops the play and awards a throw-in to the team with the ball, thus disrupting the offense. If a shot clock were being used, then, I guess, it may be proper to give the offense a re-set.
mick