The play described below is provided for your review and discussion. The rulings given are based on NFHS rules. NCAA rulings may be different.
Late during the fourth quarter of a close game, the official rules a foul on B-3 for contacting A-1 while attempting a three point goal. The try is unsuccessful. When A-1 goes to the free throw line for the first free throw, the U1 notices that A-1 is wearing a nose ring. The official charges A-1 with a technical foul.
After A-1 has successfully made all three free throws to tie the game, the officials head to the other end of the court for the technical foul free throws. At this point the table notifies the officials that the technical foul against A-1 was her fifth foul of the game.
The officials cancel the successful free throws and have A-1’s replacement attempt the three free throws.
Were the officials correct?
The officials were not correct. First, the penalty for wearing illegal equipment is removal from the game until the problem can be corrected. A technical foul is never charged for wearing illegal equipment.
In this particular case the lane should have been cleared, A-1 should have been given her free throws and then a substitute should have entered to replace A-1. If the final free throw was successful, Team B would have the right to move along the end line. If not, then a designated spot throw-in would be awarded to Team B.
Second, cancelling the free throws was not correct. This is not a correctable error situation. A-1 is not disqualified until her coach is notified. Anything that A-1 does after her fifth foul and before such notification is valid.
(References: Case Book Play 3.3.5 Situation A, 3-3-5, 2-10-1, 4-14-2, Case Book Play 4-14-1 Situation D)
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Very Interesting Play. Correct and this Play could easily get misinterpreted and called
wrong. Better communication between Partners. Thanks!
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