Holding ball between legs
 

A player is laying on the floor and has control of the ball by holding it between their legs. I know this is a violation - is either kicking the ball or traveling. Which is it and where is the reference in the rule and/or case book ?

Ah, the questions which get posted during testing time!
I hope that everyone on this forum lets you find the reference for yourself.

What part of the case play would make this traveling?

Definitions (rule 4) and Violations (rule 9) should help.

How did the ball get between the legs?

Please don't ask.

Hard to signal when you're holding your ball(s) between your legs!:p

This is a kicking violation. I had this twice last year. Found a case too but cannot recall it directly. Would have to dig. I have seen the situation also where A1, standing, places the ball between his legs, and then fakes shooting a layup. Trailing defender falls for fake and leaps to attempt a block, sailing past A1. A1 then retrieves ball, shoots, and scores. Seen it twice. In one case, I have seen L official not make any call and allow play to continue. In other case, I have seen Lead official call traveling, although unsure if he was calling the ball-hold-between-the-legs or a pivot foot move. (both feet were planted and appeared to not move however)

I call BS. What advantage is gained if the ball is held between the legs? Easy to come up and tie it up with them. If they roll from side to side thats a travel they gain an advantage. If I am sitting on the floor and the ball is being held between my legs its a travel. Where does the rule book or case book cover this. I dont see it.

Old thread with NCAA case.

https://forum.officiating.com/basket...ll-travel.html

If the kid tries to stand up then I am going with a travel.

Rule 4-29 defines kicking as intentionally striking the ball with any part of the leg or foot.

Now we can argue about the definition of the word "striking". I take it as any intentional touching of the ball with a part of the leg or foot.