The play described below is provided for your review and discussion. The rulings given are based on NFHS rules. NCAA rulings may be different.
During a throw-in from the end line, A2’s pass hits the bottom of the backboard and continues out onto the court. The coach of Team B claims that the ball became out of bounds when it hit the bottom of the backboard.
Was the coach correct?
The coach was NOT correct. The sides, bottom and top of the backboard are considered to be inbounds. Only the support structures for the backboard are considered to be out of bounds. The ball is also out of bounds if it passes over a rectangular board in either direction, back to front or front to back.
(References: Rules 7-1-2a3, Case Book 7-1-2 Situation A(b))
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Very Good Play. I had a similar situation where the ball rolled across the top of the backboard
and came down on the court and I allowed the play to continue. Coach met me at half time and
wanted to bring a step ladder out to prove I was wrong. I give him the Rule Reference and a few
days later, he apologized. Thanks.