Play of the Day 512 (2025-26)

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 drives into the lane and B-3 steps in to take the charge.  A-1 jumped and released the ball on a try.  After the try has been released, A-1 collides with B-3.  The ball passes through the goal.  The Lead signals a blocking foul while the Center is signaling a player control foul.  It is Team B’s fifth team foul.

Handle the situation.

At higher levels this play may result in a ruling of a blocking foul or a player control foul.  However, by NFHS rule, this is a double personal foul.  A-1 and B-3 will both be charged with a foul.  The fact that this is Team B’s fifth team foul is not relevant since a double foul is not a common foul.  The bonus rule is only applied when a common foul is committed.

The goal is counted since the try was inflight when the double foul occurred.  The ball only becomes dead when the try ends since this is not a player control foul by rule.  

This is a point-of-interruption play.  In this case play will resume with a throw-in to Team B on the end line since Team A has scored.  The point of interruption is when the try ended which is after the ball has passed through the basket.  Team B will be allowed to move along the end line as after any score.

This play stresses the importance of proper signaling at the spot of the foul.  When a double whistle occurs, the officials should take a moment to determine who will signal and report the foul.  This helps to avoid the dreaded “blarge” ruling.

Have you seen an unusual play? Let all officials benefit from it by sending it to Play of the Day