The play described below is provided for your review and discussion. The rulings given are based on NFHS rules. NCAA rulings may be different.
Dribbler A-1 has both feet in frontcourt while he continues to dribble the ball in backcourt. A-1 backs up so that his feet are now in backcourt while he continues his dribble. The coach claims this is a backcourt violation.
Is the coach correct?
The coach is NOT correct. When a player is dribbling the ball, the ball does not get frontcourt status until the ball and both feet touch entirely in frontcourt. Since the ball never had frontcourt status, A-1 can go anywhere in backcourt. Of course, the ten-second count continues until the ball gets frontcourt status.
(References: Rule 4-4-6, 9-8)
Have you seen an unusual play? Let all officials benefit from it by sending it to Play of the Day
Very Good Play. Yes, both feet and the ball need to gain Front-court Status. This Play will
happen and you will hear from the Coaches and Spectators. We, as Officials, need to be
aware and administer correctly. Thanks.