Defender verbal during play.

[Mark T. DeNucci, Sr.]

Originally Posted by wiref8

Situation: Offensive player has ball, dribbling or not, defender guarding player continues yelling "ball, ball, ball, ball . . . . . ." or "Da, da, da . . . ."

I stop play, and explain to both coaches that I view that type of behavior as un-sportsman like and doesn’t lend itself for the good of the game. I compared it to behavior that is allowed during free throw attempts. Communication, like " Ball" or "Switch" or "Pick" will be tolerated. Give both teams warning, next occurrence will result in Technical. One coach got very hot that he had not heard of this before. I told coach that he has the option of complying and has been warned without penalty.

I cannot find anything specific, and classify this under: 2005-2006 Rule Book Rule 10, Sec 3, Art 7 for Unsporting foul. Including but the limited to . . . . . .

I would like some guidance on this please.

wiref8:

You will not find anything in the rules regarding this situation because there is not rule against it. You weren't just be overly officious, you were trying to impose a rule that does not exist. Remember, you have nothing until you have something and you had nothing.

MTD, Sr.

[wiref8]

Thanks for the feedback. I just found the behavior in this situation out of the ordinary(never had seen such a persistent effort by a defender) in all the games I have officiated.

I am glad to get contrary feedback, I received positive reinforcement in the manner I handled the situation from other officials in the tournament that I know. Maybe it is a matter of standing up for each other. I am glad that I asked.

Thanks for the piece of humble pie.