Timekeeping Errors

[Back In The Saddle]

Originally posted by Jimgolf
The ref has no business keeping the game clock in his head....Keeping a silent count of the game clock is contrary to the spirit of the rules.

I wholeheartedly disagree. Counting down the final seconds of the game is, IMHO, a very good practice. It keeps the final buzzer from sneaking up on you. It helps you be ready to decide if the final shot got off in time. If one team is stalling for the last shot, knowing the time will help you be ready when they make their move. A referee is responsible for enforcing all of the rules, including the timing rules. How can you do that if you're not aware of the game clock: how much time is on it and how much time *should* be on it?