Defender positions during throw-in
 

During a throw-in, are defenders allowed to occupy a spot:
1. Between two opposing players who are standing side by side?
2. Between two opposing players that are standing in a stack?

Is the defender entitled to that spot if they want it? I cannot find the rule reference. Thanks.

1. (I assume you mean "parallel to the boundary" -- the specific direction the players are facing, or whether they are "side by side" doesn't matter) Yes, if the offense is within 6' of the boundary
2. (.. perpendicular...) No.

Thanks!

Two rule references that might interest you are 7-6-5 and 7.6.5.

Good question.

Freddy's Not Dead ...
 

7-6-5: Teammates shall not occupy adjacent positions which are parallel
to and within 3 feet of the boundary line if an opponent desires one of the
positions.

7.6.5 SITUATION: Prior to a throw-in on the end line near A’s basket, A1, A2
and A3 line up shoulder-to-shoulder parallel to the line and: (a) within 3 feet of it;
or (b) more than 3 feet from it. In both cases, Team B requests space between
the Team A players. RULING: In (a), the request is granted and a Team B player
may position between each of the Team A players. In (b), the request is denied.

In most other situations (with a few exceptions, nonjumpers on jump ball circle, and free throw rebounders along the lane), 4-23-1 should cover it.

4-23-1: Every player is entitled to a spot on the playing court provided such player gets there first
without illegally contacting an opponent.