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, while dribbling the ball near a sideline, loses his balance. During the dribble, A-1 steps off the court and then back on. A-1 does not touch the ball while momentarily off the court. A-1 continues the dribble after resuming inbounds status.
Handle the situation.
This is an out-of-bounds violation. By rule, a player is considered to be in control of the ball while dribbling the ball. When a player is in control of the ball, such player is not allowed to have out-of-bounds status.
(References: Rules 4-12-1, 7-1-1)
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Very Good Play. Correct, but some Coaches might argue you got the play wrong. Thanks!
If A1 had not continued the dribble after stepping back in bounds but just picked the ball up would he still be guilty of an out of bounds violation?