quote:
Originally posted by JoeT on 02-15-2000 11:25 AM
I thought that a player who moved his torso sideways to inhibit a dribbler was committing a foul. Was I wrong?
Joe
If the defense's feet stay put on the floor, but he leans sideways to "ensure" the contact, it's a blocking foul. But once in a legal guarding position, moving his feet, and hence his entire body, sideways is just good defense. If the resulting contact is on the torso/chest, it's player-control. But if the offense was quicker and got somewhat past the "D" before contact (usually on the shoulder or side of body), then it's a blocking foul. Bottom line is that, yes, the defense CAN move sideways legally to stay with the dribbler (and had better if he wants the coach to keep him in the game).