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Basketball Instruction/contact on the hand

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Expert: - 9/26/2007


Question
The NBA rules state that it is not a foul to contact on offensive players hand when that hand is in contact with the ball.  Does this rule apply when the offensive player is in the act of shooting and the ball is in his hand? Everyone calls foul when their hand is contacted when in the act of shooting. Thanks for clarifying the issue.

Answer
Hi Ken,

Technically, the hand is part of the ball and if the hand is struck by a defensive player, no foul should be called. However, we all know that doesn't happen. Normally a foul is called because it happens so fast it almost looks as if the defender hits the wrist of the player with the ball. A foul will almost always be called, especially in the act of shooting if the contact affects the shot.  This is one of those rules that's left up to the interpretation of the official.  And because most fouls happen so fast, the officials have a split second to make up their mind whether or not they are going to call it.  Anytime there is an advantage/disadvantage situation the officical will maek the call. I hope that helps.

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Bret Temple

Expertise

My expertise is in the art of Officiating Basketball and I can answer questions pertaining to basketball rules; youth level through CIF High School, NCAA college and NBA rules as well. I can either help define a specific rule for you, or interpret a specific rule to clarify how other officials and I view and call the game.

Experience

I have been a Basketball Official now for over 19 years, officiating at all levels. I have attended numerous training camps throughout the years in an attempt to constantly become a better official. I have been evaluated by top Officiating organizations and I've had the honor of being selected to officiate at the highest levels including former Division 1 College and NBA players.

Organizations
NASO (National Association of Sports Officials) CBOA (California Basketball Officials Association)

Education/Credentials
El Sorrino Officials Association Accreditation CIF Certified(California Interscholastic Federation) WCPBL(West Coast Professional Baskeball League) The NBA Developmental League training

Past/Present Clients
Los Angeles City Parks and Recreation, Calabasas Basketball League, Calabasas Semi-Pro Men's League, AYBA California Interscholatic Federation, ARC League , (WCPBL)West Coast Professional Basketball League, Gary Grant Youth Basketball Program

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