I was at a women's NCAA game last night and there was one mechanics situation I couldn't figure out. When the ball was being inbounded on the endline, most of the time L would stand between the player and the sideline, but two or three times L would stand inside, between the player and the lane. I couldn't figure out what caused them to decide to set up in different ways. Help?

Excellent question Lotto...

I too watched a couple college games last night...1 womens 1 mens.
Several buddies officiating, and one buddy Asst. coaching.

I saw the situation you are talking about also.

The Lead has the option of being between the ball and basket or between throw-in and the sideline. The postioning of Lead should be based on providing the best possible coverage. It is recommended that the Lead hands the ball to the thrower when remaining in the frontcourt.

Page 67..DIAGRAM 52...2003-05 Officials Manual.



[Edited by RookieDude on Nov 20th, 2004 at 10:20 AM]

Lotto, I think the guideline is that if the throw-in will be at the 3-point arc or beyond, the official will stand to the inside to avoid being too far from the post play.