L of a play

[Nevadaref]

Originally Posted by Amesman

A1 shoots and A2, who is significantly taller than B2, closes down for an over the back -- but not ON the back -- rebound. Success, but A2 is now effectively an 'L' shape over B2 upon gathering the ball. B2, who was leaning forward, now straightens up and maybe even raises arms straight up. Lots of contact. In B2's airspace.

Whaddya got?

Most often, it's fleeting contact because A2 is pulling out of the fire or on the move, so I got nothing. But what of it if A2, aka "the 'L' " lingers, and even takes a shot, with plenty of contact made in B2's own airspace?

To pre-empt a possible Padgett inquiry, a trip into OT is not on the line.

This is a foul on B2. While he is entitled to his vertical space, he must put his body parts in it first and without illegally contacting his opponent. He failed to do that here.

There is no rule against A2 invading the vertical space of B2 without initiating contact. What A2 did on this play is perfectly fine. It was B2 who now caused the contact by getting into his position late.

Think of it this way, if A2 were driving and taking a shot and jumped into the air while extending his arms over B2's head, would you allow B2 to extend his arms straight up and smack the arms of A2 while he attempts his try? Obviously not.

People seem to forget that verticality demands that the player doesn't cause contact with the opponent. That is different from the opponent contacting him.