FT Violations

[BigCat]

Originally Posted by APG

It's a rule that logistically is difficult to even officiate with real accuracy unless you're working with 3 officials. It adds the responsibility for the trail to determine whether a defender entered in the semi circle early prior to the ball hitting the basket. The trail already had enough on his plate...on top of that rebounding action. When deciding between adjudicating this violation...especially with no contact and rebounding action....most officials are gonna to go to rebounding action.

I'm one of those that saw no need for the rule. It doesn't help anything IMO. Slight contact with the free thrower after he's released the ball? Never heard a coach or player complain about this. If contact warrants a foul, then call the foul. As to the claims of freedom/restrictions being the same for the FT about entering in early...the purpose of that restriction is to not allow the FT to intentionally miss and sprint in to get his miss as he has the advantage of knowing he's going to miss on purpose and where he wants to miss it. Having the restriction on those entering the lane serves no real legitimate purpose IMO.

Thx APG,

I always appreciate your well reasoned, non personal attack responses. I don't think the rule is necessary either but I don't pretend to know what goes on in other parts of the country, lower level boys or any women's. I'm with Adam in that I'm not sure how much more this adds to official responsibility. I still have to watch the shooter crossing early. Frankly, that is what I see more of these days. I pregame that because when it is missed it is a "bad" miss. Everybody has to referee FTs. I do agree with Bob that the bs happens in the second spot. Refereeing is hard...