Official mechanics

[Splute]

That is interesting to hear from so many. I truely thought one was supposed to signal (for coaches, fans and table to see) and simulataneously verbalize the signal to the table for clarity. It seems logical to me; but what do i know Of course the table doesnt care what kind of foul anyway (other than T); just color and number and add to the count I suppose.

[jeffpea]

If you do not verbalize the foul when reporting to the table, I believe you are missing a good opportunity to communicate to the coaches what actually happened. As was said before by Splute, the table doesn't care what kind of foul - your signal and words are really for the benefit of the coaches.

In the college mechanic of calling official goes opposite, this is certainly more important than before because you can't take the time to stay table-side to explain nor can you reasonably carry on a conversation across the court.

The preliminary signal at the spot of the foul is less important (in most instances) than the signal and communication you give at/to the table.