The play described below is provided for your review and discussion. The rulings given are based on NFHS rules. NCAA rulings may be different.
Blue #10 was fouled in the act of shooting late in the 4th quarter. After the first free throw, Blue #3 and #5 are replaced for defensive reasons by #15 and #21. The second free throw is successful. The White team is whistled for a five-second violation on the ensuing throw-in. Blue #3 and #5 go to the table and the timer sounds the horn for their substitution on offense.
Handle the situation.
Blue #3 and #5 cannot re-enter at this point. Even though the ball has been live during the throw-in that ended with a violation, the clock has not run. #3 and #5 must wait until the clock has started properly.
(References: Rule 3-3-4)
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Could #3 and #5 also re-enter if their coach decided to call a timeout?
No. The rules state that once a player is replaced, he/she must wait for one tick of the clock (clock legally started) before being allowed to re-enter the game (Rule 3.3.4). A timeout does not provide an exemption to that rule.
Very Good Play. Makes you think and get it right. The Clock had NOT started.