[MN 3 Sport Ref]

Originally posted by Back In The Saddle

Thank you, everyone, for chiming in on my question.

By "working wider" do you mean greater distance from the ball handler/defender? If so, how far do you suggest? I try to stay within about 6 feet usually. Is this too close?

Also, in cracker box gyms, where you only have 2-3 feet OOB on the endline, what is the best way to get the right position as lead?

Yes, this can be a problem in small gyms. In a gym where you have some room to get deep on the baseline (about 6 feet like you suggested it is IMO easier to get the angle on the defender and the ball handler while keeping them in one visual frame. It is then possible to referee the defense as well as to watch for a violation before the contact. This is true working the trail as well. I think many young officials get the mind set that it is more "favorable" to make a call when you are "on top" of the play, yet however miss just as many as they were too close and did not see the play develop, or missed the off ball screen as they were to close to look through the play and see the screen ahead of the ball.

As for small gyms I have found to be a bit more active and move a little more always working hard to get a good angle. As the lead though there are simply times when you will be screened off (straightlined) as you are too close to the action (damn wall). Do your best and try to watch the play develop and make the call. Tight gyms can really be challenging to get angles.