[rwest]

In the judgement of the official was the player in control when the downward push was made? For example, if I deflect the ball over my opponents head, I do not have to let the ball touch the floor before catching it and starting a dribble. The deflection was not in control of the player. You can't start a dribble without control.

Case Play 4.15.1 Situation A: Ruling: ....The dribble does not begin until A1 has gained control.

Case Play 4.15.1 Situation B:

A1's throw-in pass is beyond A2. (A) A2 reaches out and slaps the ball toward A's basket; or (b) A2 muffs the pass. In both situations, A2 then gains control and dribbles to the basket and scores. Ruling: No violation in etiher (a) or (b).

So did the player steal the ball by deflecting it without exhibiting control? If so then he may catch the ball and then dribble. On chasing the loose ball, when did the downward push occur? Is that was caused the loose ball? Was A1 in control of the ball and B1 slapped it away causing a downward push? If so, then again you don't have control and B1 may catch and then start a dribble.