Frontcourt Closely-guarded action 9-10
 

While dribbling in A's frontcourt, A1 is closely guarded by B1.After one second, A2 steps and stands directly between (without making contact) A1 & B1. B1 maintains guarding position within 6 feet of A1. Does the five-second count continue when A2 is directly between A1 & B1?

Yes - read this case play. As long as the defender is within 6 feet, the closely guarded count continues.

9.10.1 SITUATION D: Team A, while in possession of the ball in its frontcourt:
(a) positions four players parallel with the sideline and they pass the ball from one to another with their arms reaching beyond the sideline plane; or (b) has four teammates surround dribbler A1. In both (a) and (b), the opponents are unable to get close to the ball. RULING: This is considered to be a closely-guarded situation and a violation in five seconds in both (a) and (b), if any B player is within 6 feet of the ball or within 6 feet of the screening teammates and is attempting to gain control of the ball. Preventing opponents from getting to the ball by using screening teammates becomes a violation in five seconds if the opponents are attempting to gain control.