Everyone on the floor.

[Back In The Saddle]

Originally posted by mplagrow
What if B1 is clearly behind A1, and A1 is going for a loose ball. If B1, in going for the ball, nails A1 from behind, is it considered loose-ball and unintentional? Both players have a right to the ball? Or should position be considered?

Would it be a foul if they were standing?

There is no "loose ball" foul in NFHS rules. And as far as I can tell, the rules do not become different based on whether the players are standing or diving on the floor. Also, I try not to be pedantic about proper terms, but the word "unintentional" has no meaning in this context. Most fouls are unintentional. Incidental is probably the word you meant, and it has great significance here. So does position.

Have a look at what NevedaRef posted from the rule on incidental contact. Article 2 introduces the notion of "equally favorable positions." And Article 3 includes language about "not hinder[ing] the opponent from participating in normal defensive or offensive movements."

In your scenario, A1 is clearly in a more favorable position. And it sounds like B1 is hindering A1's normal offensive movements by contacting him/her from behind. So by both measures B1's contact should not be considered incidental contact.