Is It a Foul?

[Overnbach]

Originally Posted by Snaqwells

I think this breaks it down pretty well. I would only add that the purpose of this tactic is often not for that shot, but to cause the shooter to exercise caution on future shots. I was taught this technique by an older player when I was in school, with the rationale that the officials were most likely looking at the hands (yeah, I know, but I was 15) and the shooter would instinctively flinch the next time whether you actually poked him or not.

I have a friend who does this to me quite often in pickup games. I am sad to say that it is pretty effective on me. I do start looking for it, and I sometimes flinch a bit. I'd like to see it called, if it is intentional.

Wouldn't you have a call if an opponent said, "Choke," just before the release of a free throw. Seems like a similar intent. (Eric does that, too.)