Delayed Whistle

[eventnyc]

Last night in a BV Game, I really had a patient (no late) whistle. I was in the lead position and I saw some minor contact on the shooter. He had released the ball on a short shot, three footer. My arm and fist had gone up in the air instinctively, however, no whistle. Don't ask, I don't know why. This is the first time this has happened to me in seven years of officiating. I can tell you this. The shot seemed to be up there forever. I closed down on the player and took a peak up at the rim (also something I never do). The ball bounced twice on the rim and came off without going in. I blew my whistle and made the call.

Analysis: I was unsure about the call. The contact was minor and it may have effected the shot. What I can't tell you is what my reaction would have been if the basket was scored. Hopefully, I would have still blown that "late" whistle. BTW, the coaches did not react to the whistle. It was probably only a second or two late, however, something that was out of the norm to me. With the arm up in the air, I'm sure the coach would have had a fit, had I not blown the whistle. Rightfully so!