Quote:
Originally posted by Mark Padgett
Believe it or not, I do know that the 3 second count ends on a try! But that player in the lane has already established his position illegally by the time the try is taken.[/B]
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Right... But if the shot is taken it is too late... Besides, again, what affect did that player have on the play?
The 3 second violation is designed to prevent players from camping out in the lane, receiving a pass, and making an easy basket from an advantageous position. If a player is in the lane on the side opposite from where the play is being made, who cares? He is not even involved in the play!
If a player is in the lane, and has the potential to receive the ball, and does not get out -- call it. If the player is in the lane 2 seconds, receives the ball and makes a move for the basket -- pause your count. If that player scores, great. If not, resume your count and make the 3 second violation call if he does not get out of the lane.
However, IMHO, far too many officials make the 3 seconds call when it has absolutely nothing to do with what is going on in the game. It is just as important to understand the spirit and intent of the rule regarding 3 seconds is as it is for all the other rules.
(i.e. Do you always call a technical foul when the books aren't ready 10 minutes before tip?)