Quote:
Originally posted by Ref in PA
First, I want to say that I think this rule should apply to the offense only.
However, the rule, as written does not specify offense or defense. To assume that it applies to offense only is not right, even thouth the commentary example was for an offensive play. So the second point I want to make is that unless we see language that limits this violation to the offense only, there will be some refs who will apply it to both offense and defense.
I do not consider a defensive player leaving the court gaining an advantage for the defense. I can think of several situations where the defense could gain an advantage if the violation is called, but only if the violation is called. B1 leaves the court, no whistle, no advantage. B1 leaves the court, whistle, possible advantage for team B.
I outlined a couple of scenarios in the "rule changes" thread http://www.officialforum.com/showthr...7&pagenumber=4 where I thought the defense could benefit if the violation were to be called.
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If you are referring only to the sitch where the defense steps out during an open fast-break, in order to stop the play, then yes, you're right.
But for the defense to step oob around a screen in order to defend a shot is certainly and advantage and has been gained illegally. The times I've seen this is when the screener is under the basket, and an offensive player wants to get free to catch a pass for a quick shot. If the defense doesn't step oob, she gets screened, and the offensive play works. If the defender DOES step oob, she can get around the screen and has a chance to poke or intercept the pass. That's an advantage, illegally gained, and is one of the situations that the rule is meant to address -- or at least, it ought to be!