Unoccupied lane space

[jmaellis]

Originally Posted by PSidbury

Assuming NFHS:

So, where in the Rules Book does it state that the first marked lane spaces must be occupied by opponents of the free thrower?

Rule 8-1-4 states: "During a free throw when lane spaces may be occupied..."

It certainly does not state "when lane spaces must (or will) be occupied"

There is a difference between "you may occupy" and "you must occupy."
The former implies objective discretion, while the latter implies strict adherence.

Again, even 8-1-4b uses the word shall and not must or will be. And even that usage of shall is within the context of 8-1-4: "...when lane spaces may be occupied..." Which seems to say that if you choose (that objective discretion thing) to occupy the lane, then you shall do it a certain way.

Going to need another pair of eyes, because I cannot find clear language that must put an opponent on the first marked lane spaces.

There is clear language, however, that states when players shall not occupy the lane (ie., 8-1-3).

Can't find anything in 9-1 either, other than a reference back to 8-1-4.

Thanks,
Paul

What????? So, how is "shall not" any clearer or more definitive than "shall be" Or or that matter how is "shall be" any less definitive than "Shall Not"?

"Shall" is an absolute, nothing ambiguous about it.