A1 shoots from about 10 feet from basket. B1 comes from A1's side to block shot, he misses and falls to the floor in front of A1. While B1 is on the floor, the rebound comes off the rim above him. A1 grabs the rebound as B1 stands up directly into A1's chest. Is A1 in B1's verticle plane or is B1 causing the contact?

Who caused the contact?

I'd call the foul on B.

Rich

I agree that B caused the contact, however, is B not entitled to the space from floor to ceiling?

The way that call was explained to me was that B1 is entitled to the verticle plane above his feet, not his entire body. The same as if he leans over in front of a dribbler, you can't call that a charge.

Although this explaination isn't perfect, it may help in some situations. A1 certainly can not dive on top of a downed player to "recover a fumble". Rich asked a very pretinent question: "Who caused the contact?" Once the answer to that question is determined, you should have a very good shot at getting it right.

Blackhawk

1) Even though B1 is on the floor he is entitled to the space above him.

2) If B1 stood straight up the A1 is resposible for any contact.

3) It is my opinion that this is one of those you had to see it plays to render a decision.

4) Having stated my opinion in (3) I would ask the following questions: If B1's actions could be construed as illegal contact with A1, did the contact cause A1 to lose control of the ball or be displaced? If the answer to either of these questions is yes, then B1 is guilty of a foul, otherwise the contact between the two players should be considered incidental contact.

B1's exagerated body profile negates accomodating verticality.

Why does there have to be a foul?

Kinda tough without seeing it, but seems to me B1 put himself in an unfortunate position by lunging out of control.

Good no call, IMO, if A1 can continue on unimpeded. Otherwise, rotten luck and a foul on B1

Because B1's exagerated body profile negates accomodating verticality!!! :)

Except --- there's some case where B1 is lying on the floor and dribbling A1 trips over B1. Ruling -- play on. B1 is entitled to his space, even if it's temporarily lying on the floor.