Free Throw Lane Restrictions

Originally Posted by Camron Rust

Players can extend their arms any direction they want...as long as they don't commit a foul with them.

Verticality is only relevant when considering a possible foul call. They can put them over the lane, over their opponent, or just about anywhere short of committing a foul.

Occupying a space also doesn't rely on the position of the arms. If they are not touching part of the court outside the space and their feet are not extended outside the space, they're in the space. There are no requirements on keeping the arms in/over the space.

However, once the arms are out of their space/not vertical, they are at risk for a foul if it hinders their opponents play....such as keeping them from getting to the rebound. But then, that's a hold with or without what you cited.

Agree. Case 9.1.3. situation L: Only the feet would constitute a violation. However, arm contact is a foul (slapping arms as the throw goes up). That is why many refs tell them to stay vertical or in their lane - just to prevent a foul. Probably OK to mention for MS ball but not HS.

An interesting question would be: B5 extends her left arm into the space of A5 all the way across her body. A5 whacks it down with force. Foul on A5 or B5?