2 Man - Ball-Side Mechanic

[Mark T. DeNucci, Sr.]

Originally Posted by BLS

First post to this site from a rookie!

I'm in my first year of reffing, so have been studying the Rules Books, Casebook, Mechanics, etc., and have a lot of learning to do. My first of probably many questions:

Worked my first game last night (MS girls).... As part of pregame, I asked my partner about when Lead should shift to the same side of the court as Trail. Partner (8 year veteran) looked at me funny and said "never - Lead should always stay opposite of trail in two man" So I felt kind of stupid and said O.K.

After the game, I checked the Officials Manual and sure enough found the section that discusses Ball-Side mechanics for Two-Man (2.3.3 of manual).

Here's my question: Does anyone use this mechanic in two man? If so, do you rarely slide over (i.e. only if all ten players are on your opposite side.) Is this mechanic relatively new?

BLS:

Welcome to the group, and never be a stranger.

First. Your partner is an idiot and an idiot who doesn't know proper mechanics.

Second. I am a proponent of ball-side mechanics. That being said, it takes a lot of experience to know when to go and when not to go. Take your time and concentrate on mastering on-ball and off-ball coverage. Don't be in a hurry to go ball side. My son is starting is second year of basketball officiating and he didn't go ball side in a game until about two-thirds of the way through the season and he thought it was a big deal.

Third. Take it slow. Try to observe games and watch it from the perspective of the lead official and try to decide of you would go ball side or not.

MTD, Sr.