The play described below is provided for your review and discussion. The rulings given are based on NFHS rules. NCAA rulings may be different.
With five seconds left in a tie game, Team A takes a timeout to setup a last second attempt. On the ensuing throw-in, the ball is caught by A-5 about 10 feet from the basket. A-5 passes the ball out to A-2 beyond the three-point line. A-2 attempts a three-point goal. The attempt misses and is rebounded by A-4 who releases the ball just before the horn sounds. The ball passes through the goal.
The clock operator was late starting the clock.
Handle the situation.
There is no monitor that a high school official can use to ascertain how much time elapsed before the clock was started. It is also common knowledge that if one is going to have a clock timing issue in a high school game, these will often occur during the waning moments of a close game.
During the closing moments of such a game, it is good practice to have a silent count going in one’s head. This will help to adjudicate these situations where the clock operator forgets to start the clock since it will provide “definite knowledge” relative to the time involved.
If the official’s count had expired, then the goal should be disallowed and an overtime will be played. Without definite knowledge the goal will count and the game is over.
(References: Rule 5-10-1, 5-10-2)
Have you seen an unusual play? Let all officials benefit from it by sending it to Play of the Day
A kick is a violation!
Poor choice of words. What was intended to be conveyed was a pass. The play situation has been updated.
Ladies and gentleman, Sat. March 11, 2023
“kick” in this instance is a pass. Also, 70% of all prep officials have no concept of on all whistles at least one official on the floor should look at the clock. Any time the game ending possibly still undecided (ANYwhere withing reach) time should be placed back on the clock or removed from the clock when “definite knowledge” is present. Do not roll your eyes when a any partner corrects the clock as it impossible to have a “last second shot” without that second being on the clock.
When the game is ….(over) then correct on the fly, while running, by the table to start the clock or to take xx seconds off clock while free throws. Think, do whatis best for the game.
All players while playing a game with officials are the most important moments of their day. Our job is to treat them as such. Players can be 7 years old, 18-23 yyears old or mens’ leagues or seniors having fun. They all just want to run- let them and stay out of their way when possible. Call the obvious and NO game interrupters! lol -Doug, a prep to small college official (33 years) –