Free Throw Violation

[BktBallRef]

Originally Posted by ecolintman

"It was a championship junior high school tournament game. 2. We play under the umbrella of the LHSAA/Federation rules. To that end let me quote the rule that applies and the intent behind that rule. Under the Rules Enforcement paragraph of the LHSAA rules book it states "Officials need to be aware that personal interpretations of the rules have a negative impact on the game. The rules are written to provide a balance between offense and defense, minimize risks to participants, promote the sound tradition of the game and promote fair play. Individual philosophies and diviation from the rules as written negatively impact the basic fundamentals and tenants of the rules. The free throw rule is specific in that it is a violation if after receiving and having control of the ball the free thrower has either foot beyond the vertical plane of the edge of the free throw line prior to the basketball entering the basket or hitting the rim of the basket. The bottom line - we are paid to call the game according to the rules that apply."

#1, I don't believe the official SAID this. There must have been some type of written response that you're quoting. This is directly from this year's NFHS Points of Emphasis.

#2, The official made the correct call. If he's able to kill the play before the shooter crosses the lane, great. If not, it's a violation. Can discretion be used in a 10 year old game? Yes. Does it make the official wrong if he follows the rule? No, it doesn't, in spite of what the OP thinks.

#3, The original poster is pissed because the call was made. Further, he does NOT know the rule. After I responsed with the initial reply in this thread, he PM'ed me.

Originally Posted by ecolintman

I thought that a shot had to be taken for the violation to occur.

Basically, he looking for a scapegoat.

[Nevadaref]

While BktBallRef makes valid points, the fact remains that the official did not use good judgment in applying the purpose and intent of the rule. The rule which prohibits the free thrower from breaking the plane of the FT line is clearly for the purpose of preventing the shooter from jumping closer to the basket while trying for goal. It is not intended to take away a FT opportunity from a player who dropped the ball prior to shooting it.

I think that the OP has a right to be upset.