Stop Clock Signal
 

I understand the point of having proper signals so as to communicate what is taking place. However it seems to me that this signal is somewhat unnecessary as the clock keeper will stop the clock on the sound of the whistle. Is there any instance in which there is an officials' whistle but the clock should not stop? Thoughts?

If the clock is not running...example: calling in subs during free throw situations, or throw-in situations...

But as far as your main question - in reality, we all know the timer stops a running clock on the whistle. The only real reason for the stop clock signal is so that people know right away if we have a violation or a foul. It's a communication tool...do we need that open hand up? Not in my opinion.

Well it is not done just for the clock operator. It is done for yourself to slow you down. It is done if it is seen on video and sound cannot be easily heard, it gives a reference to when you stopped the clock when sound is not easily heard. And these are the reason the NCAAM have made this an emphasis in their mechanics.

I think it is mostly an essential mechanic unless you are using a PTS of some kind.

Peace

in situations where the official timer cannot hear the sound of the whistle, they will be able to stop the clock when they visually see the "stop clock" signal.

fwiw, using the "stop clock" signal is a mechanical point of emphasis in NCAA-M level - primarily for purposes of video reveiw/replay - to determine when the clock should be stopped.

Never thought about the replay situations. That is a good point.

Many of us were probably taught that initially using the stop clock/open hand gives you the opportunity (although less than a second really) to consider your ruling or to make eye contact with your partner if you both blow the whistle. You can always change the open hand to a fist ... tougher to go the other way.

If you do that, someone is going to think you are indecisive. And it does not matter which way you go IMO.

Peace