[Mark T. DeNucci, Sr.]

Time and distance only applies when a defensive player obtains (NFHS)/establishes (NCAA/FIBA) a legal guarding position against an offensive player who does not have control of the ball and for any player setting a screen against another player.

Time and distance does not apply when a defensive player obtains/establishes a legal guarding position against an offensive player in control of the ball except that a defensive player who attempts to obtain/establish a legal guarding against an offensive airborne player in control of the ball must secure his position before the offensive player becomes airborne.

Time and distance is not requirement for obtaining/establishing a legal guarding position against an offensive player in control of the ball because any player in control of the ball must expect to be guarded from the moment he gains control of the ball. An offensive player without the ball has a reasonable expectation of not always being guarded.

I think that this should clear up any confusion about time and distance is to be applied in guarding and screening situations.