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Re: Does
Originally posted by M&M Guy
So the question is: the rule states the official "shall" grant the timeout request; is that the same as the official "must" grant the request?
Yes
Does the coach have a point?
Yes
Or does the official have some judgement in whether the (excess) TO is granted, even if the request is "legitimate" in all other repects?
No. The rule is absolute. There may even be a reason that the player or coach wants a time out, fully knowing it will cost two shots and the ball. For example, what if the losing team, with no time outs, scores with 5 seconds to go. All the winning team has to do is not inbound the ball and the clock will run out. But if the losing team calls time out immediately after making the basket-- and it is granted promptly -- then lots can happen during the stopped clock. The foul shots could be missed. The inbounds pass could be stolen. The team that is behind could make a winning basket before time is out. All of this is within the rules and you may not substitute your judgment for the clear meaning of the rule. Shall means must. Always.
[Edited by baystateref on Jan 18th, 2006 at 04:08 PM]
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