This is probably the easiest page. The mechanic is different for the Lead and Trail. Here is what each do.

• Lead -- End Line of the Front Court ONLY!
  1. Notice that the lead should normally only inbound the ball to the offense on the end line of their front court. We would make an exception for the sideline real, real close to the end line, if there is not room for the Trail.
  2. Always stand outside of the player. That means they are between you and the key.
  3. If this is after a time out, then blow your whistle first, just like starting a quarter.
  4. Hand them the ball; do NOT bounce it to them.
  5. As you hand the ball, your other hand goes up to "hold the clock".
  6. Begin your 5-second count. (It ends when they release the ball directly onto the court.)
  7. When the ball is touched on the court, chop time.
  8. Officiate.
• Trail -- Back Court or Side Lines
  1. Think about the rectangle and position yourself toward the spot you will need to be in. You should be about 10 feet from the player.
  2. Bounce the ball to the player. (You cannot hand it to them if you're 10 feet away!)
  3. As you bounce the ball, your other hand goes up to "hold the clock".
  4. Begin your 5-second count. (It ends when they release the ball directly onto the court.)
  5. When the ball is touched on the court, chop time.
  6. Officiate.

Special Note for Trail when Lead is Inbounding

When the Lead is inbounding the ball on the end line, typically most teams have 1 or 2 set plays they run. You should position yourself near your sideline and about the middle of the players. For example, if the offense runs the "stack" play (where the 4 on-court players stack in front of each other, often on the side of the key) then you position yourself even with the 3rd offensive player. That will put you in a good position to see any holding fouls as the players "break" and spread out. You should (almost) always be below the Free Throw Line extended.