2015/16 NFHS Rule Interpretations

[Freddy]

Originally Posted by Stat-Man

I'm trying to figure out if the new POE applies only if the defender enters the lane early and contacts the free throw shooter.

Yes.

Originally Posted by Stat-Man

If the defender waits until the ball hits the rim, and then incidentally contacts the shooter, is that still legal? Or, should it be called a foul as well?

Legal. No foul for incidental contact because lane space player crossed the FT line after the ball hit the ring.

Originally Posted by Stat-Man

I have a feeling the first time I enforce the POE, I'll be having a thrilling conversation with the coach.

Of all the FT's of the 24 or so games from last year I studied (mostly varsity, a couple of JV), this was quite rare -- never with boys, always with girls. And the precursor to every actual violation and foul due to contact prior to the ball striking the ring was a vivid, noticable, aggressive entry into the lane by that top lane space player. Here's an example: Crossing the Line and Contact Prior to Rim Hit
When a normal entry into the lane occurred, whatever adjudication needing to be done on this issue was usually so close it didn't seem legitimate to call.
Look for that aggressive entry. If it doesn't happen, at this point of studying this issue I'd say the POE isn't happening so you don't have to fixate on it.
Of course, as always, I reserve the right to be wrong on this. But that's the way it looks.[/QUOTE]