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Well here it is: The Official Word as spoken by Howard Mayo. I got this e-mail just a few minutes ago, and I'm pasting it in word-for-word.
Juulie:
I have read several posting on the 'official's form' and would like to offer the official interpretation as set down by the National Federation.
There has been no change in regards to who may occupy marked lane spaces with the exception that under the 2003-04 rule, players in marked lane spaces shall be limited to the maximum of 4 defensive and two offensive players in spaces 1,2 & 3 with the top marked lane space(Closest to the shooter) remaining vacant.
The lane space adjacent to the endline shall be occupied by opponents of the free thrower - #2 lane space may be occupied by the offense - #3 lane space may be occupied by the defense - #4 lane space (top) shall remain vacant.
The only lane space that must be occupied is the lower space adjacent to the endline. The other two lane spaces are optional and players do not have to occupy these spaces.
Examples: Offense chooses not to occupy #2 lane space - Defense may occupy.
Defense does not choose to occupy #3 lane space - Offense may
occupy.
Keep in mind that regardless of how many lane spaces are open, there can be only a maximum of 4 - defensive and 2 - offensive players on the lane line with the top space vacant.
It is legal to have only the lower space occupied with #2 and #3 spaces vacant.
Because the top space must remain vacant, if for some reason a player(s) occupy the top space and the thrower has the ball, that player has committed a violation. Officials should make sure, prior to presenting the ball to the shooter, that the top space is vacant and the bottom space is occupied by the defense.
Under last year's rule, 82% of missed free throws were gathered by the defense. It will be interesting to see if the new alignment will increase the percentage for the defense
There will be several new case book plays to cover the new rule when the case books come out in early August.
Hope this clears up any confusion.
Just remember, you heard it here first!!
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