Free Throw Violation

[Nate1224hoops]

Originally Posted by bob jenkins

As a general statement, violations are written in the form "act ==> penalty." Fouls are written "Act + advantage ==> penalty". It's the "advantage" part that requires judgment, and that makes violations more black-and-white.

That said, I'm going to be looking more closely in certain situations. So, for your example of stepping over the end line -- if there's pressure, I'll be looking for it, and call it. If there's no pressure, I'll be looking for the next competitive match-up and likely miss (and thus not call) a "small" violation.

Since a FT is, by definition, "no pressure" (at least physically, by the defense), I'm not going to be focussing on the shooter's foot, to the nearest 2" -- I'm going to be getting ready for the rebounding action. IF I know about it, I'll try to talk to the player before the FT, and maybe even mention something to her coach before I call it.

And, frankly, I've never seen anyone at the V level do this consistently, so much of the (or my) discussion it theoretical.

Bob,

Thanks for your reply.

So if I understand you correctly, in a crucial situation (say game tied 60-60 with 10 seconds on the clock) the opposing coach says, "will you watch her right foot. It lands on the line everytime." You are going to do:

A) Ignore the clear violation
B) Go tell her to watch her feet
C) Call the violation, if it occurs

Again, is it an advantage? To me, it obviously is for this particular shooter. As I posted earlier, are you going to let every other shooter in the game line up with their toes on the line.

It is the craziest thing ever. This is a 6 foot post player who is a state champion high jumper. She shouldn't have to jump....but she does!!