Held Ball Signal

Originally Posted by bucky

I never really understood the stop clock signal (open hand in air). What is the purpose? And if the response if "to stop the clock" well then what is the purpose of the whistle? The whistle is enough.

Furthermore, what is purpose of fist in air for fouls? I think, yes extreme minority I know, that there is no need for any hand/arm in the air at all. Just whistle, followed by mechanic and any necessary verbal info.

Is that a super ridiculous idea?

I think the NBA has it right. Fist for all fouls, simply whistle and point for OOB. The whistle is enough at the D1 and NBA level, but they use Precision Timing. I don't mind the "stop clock" signal being required at the HS and small college level just in case, but I too think it is superflous.