There's a relatively recent interp somewhere (for some level) that this is supposed to be a violation.

I get the literal reading of the rule, but, ummm, I never notice when this is allegedly happening.

Here's a similar NCAAW ruling:
DATE:

11/19/2014

RULE:

Rule 8

QUESTION:

Is it a violation during a Free Throw when the shooter has the ball in hand, is dribbling the ball and steps on the throw line, then moves it back before she starts her try? This happened in a game and the official called a violation. We talked about this after the game. My thinking was it's not a violation until she steps on the line during her attempt at the basket.

ANSWER:

This is a violation. Once the free throw shooter has the ball at her disposal, she is may not leave the free throw semicircle before the try strikes the ring, flange, or backboard or until the free throw ends (Rule 8-5.1.d). The free throw line is outside the free throw semicircle.

OK, this does change things. :)

Not sure why it is surprising. The lane cleared is weird for the player and more likely for them to do something strange.

(I'd love to see a HS study on FT% with the lane cleared -- my perception is that its much lower, even though it is presumably the best FT shooter on the floor taking the shot (usually). Seems to me the fact it is different breaks some of the standard ritual for the shooters.)

Not all lane cleared FT's are selected shooter.

Over 30 years ago in a boys' VAR game. V1 shooting the 2nd FT of and TF in the 4th QT steps over the FT Line on his follow through. I wiped the FT off the board. V then has to go to OT to win the game. The game was the top two teams in the league.

MTD, Sr.

Which is why he said (usually)