In the NBA, the hop step, also known as the gather step or two-step, is a legal move that allows an offensive player to gather their momentum and maintain control of the ball before taking their next steps. It is a commonly used move by players to create separation from defenders and initiate their drive to the basket. However, there are certain rules and restrictions that players must adhere to in order for the hop step to be considered legal.
Firstly, it is important to note that the hop step is not considered a traveling violation if executed correctly. According to the NBA rulebook, an offensive player is allowed to take two steps after gathering the ball, regardless of whether they are in the process of dribbling or have already ended their dribble. This means that as long as the player gathers the ball with both hands simultaneously, they are allowed to take two additional steps before releasing the ball for a shot or making a pass.
The key to executing a legal hop step is making sure that both feet are off the ground simultaneously during the gather. This means that the player cannot have one foot planted on the floor while the other foot hops or takes a step. Both feet must leave the ground at the same time, and the player must release the ball before their second foot returns to the floor.
It is important to note that the hop step can sometimes be a source of controversy and confusion, as it can be difficult for officials to determine whether a player has properly executed the move or if they have committed a traveling violation. The speed and fluidity of the game make it challenging for referees to make split-second decisions on the legality of the move. As a result, there may be instances where a player gets away with a slight travel or a referee incorrectly calls a legal hop step as a violation.
Personal experiences and situations can further illustrate the use and legality of the hop step in the NBA. For example, I have seen numerous players, such as James Harden and LeBron James, effectively utilize the hop step to create scoring opportunities for themselves or their teammates. These players are often adept at timing their gather step and taking their two permitted steps before releasing the ball, making it difficult for defenders to stop their drives to the basket.
The hop step is a legal move in the NBA when executed correctly. It allows offensive players to gather their momentum and take two steps after ending their dribble. While it can be a source of controversy and subjective interpretation by officials, the hop step remains a valuable tool in the offensive arsenal of many NBA players.