The Nba’s Continuation Rule

THE NBA’S CONTINUATION RULE (which allows a player to continue his shooting motion and make a basket after being fouled) generates continual controversy. Referees often have different views of the rule. In 1999, one interpretation allowed the New York Knicks to steal an unexpected victory—at least that’s what Indiana Pacer fans thought.

After splitting the first two contests in the Eastern Conference finals, the two teams met again at the Knicks’ home, Madison Square Garden. Leading 89–81 with just over three minutes left, the Pacers seemed poised to take a 2–1 advantage in the best-of-seven series.

However, New York went on a 7–0 spurt to pull within one. Indiana’s Mark Jackson stopped the run by connecting on two free throws with 11.9 ticks remaining, giving the Pacers a 91–88 margin.

With time expiring, Larry Johnson grabbed an inbound pass intended for Knicks teammate Allan Houston. Standing behind the three-point arc, he made a slight head fake that took defender Antonio Davis into the air. As Johnson dribbled, Davis grabbed Johnson with both hands. At least a half second after the whistle blew, the New York forward let fly a 26-footer that swished through the net. Referee Jess Kersey generously ruled that the points counted. Johnson sank the free throw, completing the improbable four-point play and giving the Knicks a 92–91 victory. The incredible win sent the Garden crowd into pandemonium.

EXTRA < < < < < < < < < < < < < <

POINT Did New York really steal the game from Indiana? The NBA rules indicate that shooting begins when the player starts the shooting motion and continues until the motion ceases and the athlete returns to “a normal floor position.” Rule number 4, section XI also indicates that the interpretation belongs to the official. Did the foul occur before the shot? Most Pacers fans thought so. If so, Johnson should have simply shot three free throws.

But the rule book doesn’t begin and end the referee’s education. Clinics, articles, and practice help them to know how to make the proper call. One view urges referees in doubt to err on the side of the offense. Obviously, the referee used his judgment, but many fans still saw the game as stolen.

But there isn’t room for interpretation in God’s rule book. It’s clear: “You shall not steal.”

GOAL! Can you think of any time that it might be okay to steal? (It’s not fair to say in a baseball game!) Thank God that his rules are clear.