Awkward Free Throw Form
 

I called a game yesterday where a kid managed to draw three different lane violations with his form. He went right to the point where you would normally release the shot 2-3 times before he actually shot the ball, each time it looked like he was going to shoot right until the end, when he abruptly stopped.
The other coach complained that the kid was doing it intentionally, but I stated that since he used the same form on his first free throws, it was just his routine, and was perfectly fine.
Was I right? If the kid didn't do this on his first shot, what would you call if he did it on the second one?

If it was his habitual motion, I wouldn't call any violations. Kids are supposed to move when the ball hits something, not based on someone's arm motion. Watching players during warmups can give insight on different habits. Of course you won't notice everything during warmups, but they can be helpful. Now if the whole team starts doing it, and they claim they're coached that way, I would be wondering about that.

I'm amazed that the defense jumped when they have to wait for the ball to hit something. Poor coaching, IMO.

That's why I think that the defense stepping in shouldn't be ignored if the FT shooter fakes.

You are wise beyond your years.

You must be a Yankees fan.