Rule 10-6-5

[BlueDevilRef]

Originally Posted by JeffM

Using the forearm to "clear a path" to the basket is called. At the youngest levels, many kids just stand there dribbling the ball using the forearm to protect the ball - sometimes with the encouragement of a parent or coach. Fouls are rarely called on the stationary dribbler who is protecting the ball with their forearm.

This, Dad, was what I was referring to. This play is not called at any level. Pushing off, of course is a PC foul. But just protecting a defender from attacking the ball is never called.

[Dad]

Originally Posted by BlueDevilRef

This, Dad, was what I was referring to. This play is not called at any level. Pushing off, of course is a PC foul. But just protecting a defender from attacking the ball is never called.

Guess I'm thinking about something else. I've seen it called without it being a push off, it's rare, but some players have "oh s***" moments when they see someone about to block their shot and throw up a hand/forearm to block it.

[BlueDevilRef]

Originally Posted by Dad

Guess I'm thinking about something else. I've seen it called without it being a push off, it's rare, but some players have "oh s***" moments when they see someone about to block their shot and throw up a hand/forearm to block it.

What I'm talking about is when a dribbler blocks a defender from attacking the ball with their offhand. It is generally very subtle and contact is far from severe and so it's not seen as an advantage. That's why I was wondering if there was any case plays because the rule says nothing about severity or advantage. It simply says it's not allowed. I guess it has happened where a dribbler actually forcefully uses the arm to knock away an attempt to attack the ball but I've never seen it. I'd guess the oh crap moment you note above is prob more prevelant and more likely to be called.