[Mark T. DeNucci, Sr.]

The "not closely guarded" signal is the stupidest mechanic ever and I have never (with apologies to the late J. Dallas Shirley) used it in any game where it is sanctioned for use (both high school and college). When I was a very young basketball official (I know, I have never been young), an older official, who I consider one of my mentors, told me that when you officiate, "you have nothing until you have something." If I do have a "closely guarded situation" then I am visually counting and if I do not have a "closely guarded situation" then I am not visually counting.

MTD, Sr.