[Mark T. DeNucci, Sr.]

Originally posted by johnSandlin
In reply to what Mr. Hightower was doing during the Kansas FT, I am not sure either, however, I have seen a handful of different officials both mens womens do that. I am not the reasoning, but I have seen it done before.

It has been a women's mechanic for years for the L (2-man or 3-man) to be next to the player on the low block for the first of two or the first two of three free throws. The rationale for this mechanic is multi-faceted. Since a second (or third) free throw is to follow, the players are not supposed to be going after a rebound. Therefore the L does not need to be in a position to watch rebounding, this keeps the L close to the basket, making retrivial of the ball quicker and if there has been some extracurricular activity among players during the game, having the L close by serves a purpose of being a visible presence to the players.