Rules Puzzler: Fouling a FT shooter

[BillyMac]

Originally Posted by billyu2

A free thrower fouled in the act of shooting is not the same as a dribbler being fouled with a hand check ...

They are the same in regard such that they are both, by rule definition, a common foul.

4-19-2: A common foul is a personal foul which is neither flagrant nor intentional nor committed against a player trying or tapping for a field goal nor a part of a double, simultaneous or multiple foul.

Originally Posted by billyu2

As officials, we have to make that logical distinction even though the rule book may not specifically make if for us. Ruling an intentional foul is the only solution that correctly negates that possibility.

Fully agree. Purpose and intent. One may not even need purpose and intent. The rule definition of an intentional foul (contact that neutralizes opponent’s obvious advantageous position, having an unhindered try) is pretty clear and seems to fit this situation nicely.

Originally Posted by billyu2

... the possibility of a free thrower being fouled in the act of shooting and the only penalty being the ball awarded out of bounds for a throw in.

Only? Assuming not yet in the bonus, it's not the only penalty: If missed, substitute free throw after delayed violation for distraction (hindering). Additional personal foul toward disqualification. Additional team foul toward the bonus, or double bonus.