When I report a foul, I have always ended by pointing to where the ball will be inbounded, and saying "Baseline" or "sideline," etc.

I believe the book technically says that you should only indicate which team will have the ball.

Am I way off base by doing it this way?

I could be wrong, but I think all you have to say is "white ball" for example. It could just be a matter of style. But I never say where the ball is going out loud. That is what I am pointing for.

I really do not think that hard about it. It is really just second nature what I do.

Peace

I'll assume NFHS.

According to the official's manual, you only signify the throw-in spot on your <b>preliminary </b>signals at the spot of the foul for a non-shooting foul.
<i>Officials manual page 69 for three-person and page 36 for 2-person. </i>

I couldn't care less whether an official signals the spot or verbalizes whose ball it is when he/she reports to the table. The other official(s) should already know based on your prelim signal.

Z

I totaly agree with you Z. The main reason you verbalize it during the prelim is so your partners know were the ball is going to be thown-in from. This is a vital part of improving communication and oneness of a crew.