Stacking Players
 

Let's say on a throw-in at the offense's own end line, four offensive players stack up tight to each other chest to back, all facing the end line, and all standing about 4-5-6-7 feet from end line.

Does a defensive player have the 'right' to stand between? Can defense ask Ref to allow him 'in' the stack?

Or is it Art. 3. Every player shall be entitled to a spot on the playing court, provided that such player gets there first without illegally contacting an opponent. (Exception:Rule 4-35.7)

Seems like I have read this Q&A before here....sorry, but I can't find it. Thank you for your responses!

If the players are perpendicular to the "throw in line", then the defense is NOT entitled to a spot in between.

If the players are parallel to the "throw in line", then the defense is entitled to a spot in between.

See case 7.6.5

Bob:

NFHS CB Play 7.6.5 has two different scenarios. (a) which states that the players are lined up within three feet of the boundary line. And (b) which states that the players are line up more that three feet away from the boundary line. In (a) the defensive players are allowed to request a position between offensive players and the request should be granted (as long as the request is made before the Throw-in starts). In (b) the defensive players' request is denied.

This CB Play and its Rulings predates the NFHS and NCAA Rules Committees and therefore also applies to games played under NCAA Men's/Women's Rules.

MTD, Sr.