Had a healthy discussion the Friday night after our games over a couple beers. The opinion was divided, here is the question:

Can a player call a timeout if they jump from the court inbounds, catch the ball in mid-air and while in the air call a time out and will obviously have to land out of bounds after catching the ball?

Please indicate the rule number referenced.

For NFHS
 

Grant the TO request, see case play 5.8.3.D

Must have player control. Definition of player control says nothing about being on the floor. (4-12-1) Inbounds applies to where the airborne player LEFT the floor.

Had this conversation with an out of state coach in a tournament recently. I granted the TO. She agreed, but said they wouldn't get it in their state.

Re: For NFHS
 

She must coach in the state of incorrectness.

I agree with your point about player control in rule 4-12-1, but I thought the IHSA or NFHS made some exception to the falling/airborne player while going out to bounds and trying to call a timeout? But I am not sure and can't find it anywhere in the rules or case book. SO until I hear otherwise, grant the TO.

Re: Re: For NFHS
 

Mark you are something else! Good one!!!!!

The rule concerning airborne players and TO's is from the NBA. They have a rule restricting it, and as with all things, that belief trickles down to our world.

You won't hear otherwise, unless your state has some kind of "special rule" on this point.

If there is player control - you grant the TO - period.