Free Throw Rules
 

I recently heard from 2 officials that in high school basketball (NFHS) the bottom blocks do not have to be occupied until the last Free Throw is being attempted.

Is there a rule or mechanics manual that covers this?

Thanks!

The bottom two marked lane spaces have to be occupied by the opponents of the shooter unless the resumption of play procedure is in effect after a time out. Maybe this is what they were thinking of.

See 8-1-4c

c. The first marked lane spaces on each side of the lane, above and adjacent to the first lane-space marks, shall be occupied by opponents of the free thrower. No teammate of the free thrower shall occupy either of these marked lane spaces.

and case play

9.1.2 SITUATION A:

Following a time-out by Team B, A1 is given the ball for the first of two free throws even though Team B is still huddling at the bench and the first marked spaces on each side of the lane are not occupied. In this case, the lead official uses the resumption-of-play procedure even though the first spaces are not occupied, whereas in other cases, the spaces would have to be properly occupied before the official would proceed with the free throw administration. A1's first attempt is successful. The lead official then bounces the ball to A1 for the second attempt. Team B is still at the sideline. The official again gives the signal which indicates a violation by Team B if the attempt is missed. A1 misses the second free-throw attempt.

RULING: The violation will result in A1 being given a substitute attempt. Team B will be assessed a technical foul if they delay further by not *occupying the first marked spaces on each side of the lane before the ball becomes live for the substitute throw. (4-38; 8-1-2; 10-1-5b)

My suggestion: start listening to a different set of officials, using these 2 as a source for rules knowledge will get you into trouble.

Another FT question, NBA rule set:

Can the players behind the 3-point arc cross the arc on the release, or do they have to wait until "the hit," like the other levels?

NBA: everyone can enter on the release except for the FT shooter.

Don't think they apply that rule much,shocker, they trample the arc badly.

Thanks PG! Maybe that's what they were thinking about....