Free Thrower steps out of circle
 

NFHS rules.... is the free thrower allowed to step out of the circle once in there. This is before he/she has the ball from the official. Feels illegal but can't find a rule reference. I know they can't do this once they have the ball.

There's a reason for that

The Hick From French Lick Rule ...
 

Only Larry Bird is allowed to have the ball at his disposal when he's outside the semicircle, and once he has the ball he must immediately enter the circle.

Technical Foul For Delay ...
 

10.2.1 SITUATION B: The ruling official has reported the foul and is ready to administer the free throw. Free thrower A1 is: (a) huddling with teammates by the team bench area; RULING: A technical foul for delay by A1 in (a).

Different interpretation after a timeout or intermission (below).

8-1-2: Following a time-out or intermission, the resumption-of-play procedure may be used to prevent delay. The administering official will sound the whistle to indicate play will resume. The ball must be placed at the disposal of the thrower or placed on the floor at the free-throw line and the count must begin. Either or both teams may be charged with a violation. Following a violation by one or both teams, if the offending team(s) continues to delay, a team technical foul must be ruled.

Another Technical Foul For Delay ...
 

For a delay by defensive players in the lower lane spaces (not after a timeout or intermission).

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