Held ball: inbound locations?

[BillyMac]

Originally Posted by BillyMac

Sounds similar to an IAABO You Make The Call video interpretation a few weeks ago.

It was kicking violation by the defensive team during a backcourt endline throwin.

The was an interesting situation that we thought officials should be aware of moving forward, as it could impact a close game if we don't thoroughly understand the rules that apply.

Beginning last season, the NFHS approved a rules change that created specific designated spots for all stoppages except for out-of-bounds. This year, the NFHS expanded those spots to the backcourt. Now we essentially have eight designated spots, 2 on each end line, 3 feet outside the nearer lane line, and 4 along the sidelines at the 28-foot mark on each side of the court.

The basis for determining where the ball will be put in play is the 3-point line. Stoppages inside the 3-point line go to the end line; stoppages outside the 3-point line go to the sideline (IRG 9:2, NFHS 7-5-3, 7-5-4).

Now, let's apply these provisions to this play. A thrower releases the ball, and the defender extends their leg and kicks the ball. The ball was literally kicked outside the 3-point arc. But what was the status of the player who kicked the ball?

The defensive player had her right foot inside the arc while her left foot was in the air. By rule, she is considered inside the 3-point line (IRG 5:2:B, NFHS 4-35-1c).

Since the kicking violation technically occurred inside the 3-point line, the ensuing throw-in should be along the endline, 3 feet outside the nearer lane line.

This was an interesting play, as if this is ruled to be a violation outside the arc, the ball would be advanced to the 28-foot mark, which is considerable in situations where teams are setting up for a last-second try.

We hope this play summary alerts officials to an important nuance to the new throw-in provisions and helps with understanding the importance of knowing the player location rules.