The play described below is provided for your review and discussion. The rulings given are based on NFHS rules. NCAA rulings may be different.
A1 is throwing the ball in from the end line in frontcourt. A1 attempts to pass the ball to A3 who is between the top of the key and the division line. The ball deflects off A3’s hand and goes into the backcourt. A2 recovers the ball there. The official rules a backcourt violation.
Was the official correct?
The official was NOT correct. Although team control exists during throw-in, it exists for only one purpose. That is, to handle a common foul by the throwing team that occurs during the throw-in or before player control is obtained inbounds.
In order to have a backcourt violation in this situation, player control must first be obtained inbounds. Since there never was player control inbounds in the frontcourt, there cannot be a backcourt violation.
(References: Rule 4-19-7, 9-9)
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Very Good Play. Correct and We, as Officials, need to know that there must be control first.
Thanks.