[Mark T. DeNucci, Sr.]

I agree with JR and the rules (NFHS, NCAA, and FIBA) back us up on this one. I will reference NFHS Rules in my post.


R4-S11-A1: Continuous motion applies to a try or tap for field goals and free throws, but it has no significance unless there is a foul by any defensive player during the interval which begins when the habitual throwing movement starts a try or with the touching on a tap and ends when the ball is clearly in flight.

R4-S11-A2: If an opponent fouls after a player has started a try for goal, he/she is permitted to complete the customary arm movement, and if pivoting or stepping when fouled, may complete the usual foot or body movement in any activity while holding the ball. These privileges are granted only when the usual throwing motion has started before the foul occurs and before the ball is in flight.

R4-S41-A1: The act of shooting begins simultaneously with the start of the try or tap and ends when the ball is clearly in flight, and includes the airborne shooter.

R4-S41-A2: A try for field goal is an attempt by a player to score two or three points by throwing the ball into a team’s own basket. A player is trying for goal when the player has the ball and in the official’s judgment is throwing or attempting to throw for goal. It is not essential that the ball leave the player’s hand as a foul could prevent release of the ball.

R4-S41-A3: The try starts when the player begins the motion which habitually precedes the release of the ball.

R4-S41-A4: The try ends when the throw is successful, when it is certain the throw is unsuccessful, when the thrown ball touches the floor or when the ball becomes dead.


A1 may have been in the act of shooting when he was fouled by B1, BUT B1's foul did not keep A1 from releasing the ball for a try, in fact it did not keep from A1 from passing the ball to A2. This play is a good example of seeing the whole play before signaling whether free throws are part of the penalty. Go ahead and signal a foul, but be patient in signaling free throws. The delay should be only long enough to see what A1 does with the ball.

MTD, Sr.