Out of bounds rules
Question
I have been given conflicting but very adamant interpretations of the following:
A player is out of bounds when he touches a ball from an in-bounds player. One official has explained that the player out of bounds is dead to the play and the ball is called out against the in-bounds player. Another official has said that even though a player is out of bounds, the ball is called against the last player who touches it regardless of their location. Which is correct ? or are the rules different college versus pro games?
Answer
Hi Steve
The 2nd official is correct. All 10 players on the court have to have some kind of status. For example, in-bounds, out of bounds, front court, back court, etc. Even though a player is out-of=bounds he still counts. If the out of bounds player is the last person to touch the ball, then it's out of bounds on him/her. The official that told you the wrong information sounds like he is a new or inexperienced official. There is no rule difference between college or the pros when it comes to this call. I hope that answers your question.
Backcourt violation (over-and-back)
basketball scout