run the baseline or spot?

[Mark Padgett]

Originally posted by Ralph Stubenthal
You mean the player calling, "Time" ?

Yes, and I know it sounds nit-picky but I always try to point this out. In speaking to coaches or players, never use verbiage that indicates that either one of them can "call" time. Always use the term "request" time.

The reason is: you don't want to reinforce the incorrect notion that some of them have that merely yelling "TIME" creates a timeout. Many times they yell it when they are not entitled to a timeout and I have seen players stop playing, then have coaches get mad when the other team (for instance) drives in for an uncontested layup. This also can happen when the table inadvertantly or incorrectly blows the horn, but that's a different issue.

The "call" vs. "request" point also relates to the "who's really in control" issue. It reminds them that they must "get permission" from you to enjoy the benefits of a timeout, and that just like all other calls in a game, you and your partner are the only ones who can make calls.

Again - it sounds like a very minor point but it is one of those little things that may save you a lot of grief down the road.