[JRutledge]

Originally Posted by BillyMac

... because it's the most experienced officials who are older, a step slower, with a few more gray hairs, or a few less hairs. The young'uns hold their spot as the trail on a shot, even move in a step to get a good look at the rebounding action, and then know that they can beat the kids down to the endline on other end of the court. I used to be that fast many years ago. Now I find myself often doing a button hook maneuver to get a good look at fast break action down the other end. But, at least, I still try to take a step in, as the trail, on a shot, either a field goal, or a free throw. When I can't do that anymore, then it's probably time to hang up my Reebok Zigs.

As stated, this has nothing to do with grey hair or age of the officials. I know very young officials that do the same thing and bail on shots and still get beat. If you are trained enough in 3 person, you will get beat and that is OK. And it is not because of how fast you are, but if you are doing the right things there will get beat on a fast break you just will not completely anticipate and the players are going to have a head start on you. I am certainly not slow and I accept the fact with my training I will get beat from time to time. The rebound is just more important then being ahead of a couple of players for a moment.

Peace