The play described below is provided for your review and discussion. The rulings given are based on NFHS rules. NCAA rulings may be different.
A-1 is attempting a free throw. The attempt is unsuccessful. A-2 bats the rebound toward the division line. A-3, in the frontcourt, muffs the ball into the backcourt where it is recovered by A-3.
Handle the situation.
The key to this play is player control. Since this was a free throw, there is no player or team control once the ball is released. Until player control is obtained after the missed attempt, either team can recover the ball anywhere inbounds. Since no player control existed until the ball was recovered in the backcourt, this is legal play.
(References: Rules 9-9-1, 4-12-3a, 4-12-1, 4-12-2)
Have you seen an unusual play? Let all officials benefit from it by sending it to Play of the Day