starting a dribble

[Nevadaref]

Originally Posted by rsl

So control is the key- that's what I thought.

Sounds like I gave the right answer. It sucks being the only official in my weekly pick-up game- they expect me to know everything

Thanks guys!

Correct. The dribble has to be done WHILE IN CONTROL. I would not consider either of your situations to be a violation. If you wouldn't grant a time-out to this team during the time that the player batted/pushed the ball to the floor, but prior to catching it, then you are not deeming the player to be in control, and thus should not call a violation.