Ball [asses over rectangular backboard.

[rbruno]

NHSF rules .... I know the ball becomes dead if it passes directly over a rectangular backboard. Is is the same violation if it passes directly over the backboard "from behind". Had this happen in a game just at the final horn in a game that was not close, but got me to thinking. I think this is still a violation but can someone set me straight. The other deal is why is this considered a violation in the first place in either direction. What is the purpose of this rule?