The original situation was in a 4 eyes situation (2-man game), in a 3-whistle game there may be some situations where all 3 officials are watching the ball, but it is rare. In a 2-person game, there are going to be more situations where it is necessary for the other official to help. It can be tough for the trail alone to handle these last second situations. Not only does the trail have to determine if the bucket is good, but also if it was a 3, and if there is a foul on the play. The play becomes even more difficult when the player is very close to the line, and has a defender on him. Typical situations do not include these three variables, but it can happen, and partners should give help when this happens. JMO.

EDIT: Let me answer the first part of your question. If I am respoinsbile for the last second shot, and the ball is in my partner's primary area, I will watch my area, until I know that the clock sounding is imminent, then I must look at the shooter to deteremine if it was released prior to the horn. Yes, there is an obviosu weakness, as for approximately 1 second the post will be unwatched, but there isn't much you can do about it.

I agree with most of what you say...but it's my point of discussion: why not let trail have the shot? The obvious is that you don't want any confusion in a gray area where both make the call. Any other reasons to alway have the official opposite the table?

IMHO, that's reason enough. If the final shot is taken in the paint, who has responsibility for it? No one will know!! But if you say the opposite official or the C has the last shot, then even in those situations that might be otherwise confusing, it will be clear who will make the call.

This is going to be part of my pre-game in the future.

Thanks to all for the responses