[Geof]

Originally Posted by Rich1

While it is not written using the exact language like it is in soccer, in basketball we do use a "play on" philosophy if the contact has little affect on the play. However, in basketball we usually refer to this as "advantage/disadvantage" in addition to applying the principles of RSBQ. If the contact does not create an advantage for one player and/or place the other at a disadvantage and it does not affect RSBQ or meet one of the criteria for an automatic whistle then we can let it pass if in our judgment the contact was "marginal" or "incidental".

This is supported several places in Rule 4 which uses language such as "hinders an opponent from normal offensive and defensive movements", specifically states that "not all contact is a foul", and clearly defines the differences between legal, illegal and incidental contact. Rule 10-6 also details illegal contact very clearly. Again, unless the contact is "big" or specifically defined by rule as an "automatic" foul then it simply comes down to judgment as to whether or not these conditions are met.

When a coach asks for an explanation as to why a foul was or was not called I try to use short and simple responses whenever possible -- "contact was marginal coach" or "in my judgment it was incidental" or on rare occasions "coach, not all contact is a foul" or "I had a different angle, coach" -- acknowledging the coach's viewpoint while standing behind my calls (and passes).

I also try have a very patient whistle and see the play through so the whistle isn't late, its consistent. In general, slowing down will help you get more calls correct, be more consistent in the calls you do make, and make you appear more confident when you make them. This will also cut down on some of the challenges from the coach.

Ok, I could buy that. Thinking of it in terms of using the outcome of the play to help lend evidence as to whether or not the offensive player was hindered due to the contact of the defensive player helps my thought process.