Philosphical Question for the Experts

[JRutledge]

Originally posted by Grail


The question I have is whether or not it really does any harm? Again I know it's not proper mechanics, but those signals do serve a purpose. They communicate what the official saw to everyone in the gym. I ask this group becuase it is a common critique of many members of this forum when they comment on games they have watched.

It can. A "tip signal" on a blocked shot can cause a lot of problems, if for no other reason, one guy has a block and the other has a foul. That is never good. The only time I can see that kind of signal that works, if you are selling an already out of bounds play and using the "tip signal" to sell it. But usually that is not warranted, and really is more of an issue for your assignor or evaluator.

Originally posted by Grail

I know that when a shot is blocked and the official doesn't make a signal that it must have been a clean block, but to listen to the groaning from the crowd and the bench it is obvious that they disagree. At least the signal indicates that the official saw the play and made a ruling.

Yes, but it is unnecessary. If you did not call a foul, you do not really need another signal.

Originally posted by Grail

The travel signal strikes me as being even more informative. The violation signal of an open hand tells everyone that something happened. The coaches may even understand what happened, but the crowd, as we all know, is usually clueless. At least this signal, incorrect as it is, tells them what was called.

There is no such thing as a travel on an out of bounds play. It cannot happen by rule. So giving a travel signal is really silly. You are only confusing what the players can and cannot do. Most coaches act like there is a piviot foot out of bounds, and there obviously is not. So when officials do this, it just creates more confusion.

Originally posted by Grail

Again, let me state that I'm not advocating anyone using personal or improper mechanics, just posing a question as to the philosophy behind the mechanics.

I think for the most part you should stay away from those kind of signals. Especially for younger officials that have not achieved a certain level of basketball. And usually the veterans lose their way when they get to the top, which would have never been allowed if they were trying to move up. I will never say never, use any signals that are not authorized, but as a rule you should stay away from them as much as possible.

Peace