Basket interference v. goal tending

[rwest]

We all agree that hitting the backboard while the ball is on the rim is a rare occasion. However, what I don't understand is the reluctance to make it part of the BI definition. It is such an easy and logically thing to do. If it is so rare, and it is, players are not going to change the way they play defense. If they hit the backboard while the ball is not on the rim, it's nothing and we won't call it. If it is, on that rare occasion, on the rim when contact occurs it should be penalized just like we penalize contact with the rim or net.

Can anyone argue that hitting the backboard while the ball is on the rim should be allowed by the defense? Can you actually say that it is not basket interference? Forget the rarity of the situation. Do you actually believe the defense should be allowed to hit the backboard with the ball on the rim? I'm not asking if it should be included in the rule book. Just should it be allowed? And remember, forget how often this occurs. Look at this in a vacuum. Should this be a legal act?