I whistle to begin the game, the quarter or after a time-out. Some lord of the refs probably told me to do that. I've seen local games officiated by men who I know have worked state championship finals. One timeout, one guy will hand the ball to the thrower after a whistle. The next time, another guy will hand the ball to the thrower after a timeout, no whistle. Go figure.
If the throw in doesn't warrant a whistle, and players are packed together, they will get a 'here we go,' or 'the ball is ready,' and off we go.
Pet peeve: Those who count the five seconds aloud, during a throw-in.
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