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 dribbling the ball in frontcourt near the division line when B-1 bats the ball into the air. A-1 jumps from his frontcourt and catches the ball while in the air. A-1 then lands in the backcourt. The official rules this to be a legal play. Was the official correct?
The official was NOT correct. Although B-1 batted the ball, this did not end team control by Team A. When A-1 recovered the ball while airborne, A-1 had frontcourt status. This continued the ball’s frontcourt status. When A-1 landed in the backcourt, a backcourt violation occurred. (References: Rule 4.12.3, 4.35.3, 4.4.2, 9.9.1)
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If A1 had of went into the back court and leaped for the ball would it have been a legal play?
By rule (4-4-4), when a ball touches a player, it is the same as touching the floor at that spot. So when A1 catches the ball, the ball gets backcourt status just as it would if it had touched the floor. The last player to touch the ball in front court was the defense. So A1’s actions would be legal.
It’s nice to get these plays as it keeps you on your toes!!!!