[mick]

Originally Posted by BktBallRef

Let me offer this.

Don't penalize the shooter by calling the foul before the shooter begins the act of shooting. I see guys all the time using a quick whistle and kill the play just before (*and sometimes after) the shooter is about to release the ball.

(*and sometimes after) I see far too many officials who don't recognize when the shot has begun! The shooter picks up the dribble take a step, his hands are going up with the ball, there's contact, the whistle sounds, the ball is released and the official yells, "On the floor!!"

BTW, I see this far more often with inexperienced officials but I also see it with veterans. It makes me cringe.

Be patient! Let the play develop! Hold your whistle, give the shooter an opportunity to make his play and then whistle the foul.

Yeah, some of the normal movements associated with a shot are made before elevation.