Backcourt?

[Camron Rust]

While the above posters are all correct, I philosophically don't like the ruling in this case. Of course, I call it like it is...but that doesn't mean I have to like it.

I'm of the opinion that player location (FC vs BC) should only established based on where a player actually is when they or a teammate initially obtains team control of the ball (on a throwin or steal)...and if in they are in the air, not until they land. As a result, the above play would not be a violation since the player in the air would have neither a frontcourt nor a backcourt location and could legally pass the ball to any player on their team.

Why you may ask? It just seems like a violation that penalizes something that isn't unfair to the other team.

For example, A1, on a throwin, passes the ball to an airborne A2, having jumped from A's frontcourt. B1 slightly tips the throwin pass just as A1 releases it. A2 catches the ball and lands in A's backcourt. By the current rules, this is a violation. But, there is no logicial nor equity/fairness argument why this should be a violation. It simply stops the game with a whistle...just because.