In which situation does the ball NOT become live?

The situation in which the ball does not become live is during a free throw when it is handed to the thrower. In this scenario, the ball remains dead until the actual attempt of the free throw begins. The official's action of handing the ball to the thrower signifies the start of the free throw process, but it does not make the ball live until the throw is made.

Once the thrower releases the ball, it then becomes live, and any subsequent play can occur. This rule underscores the importance of specific situations where the action has not yet commenced, distinguishing it from other scenarios such as a jump ball or a throw-in where the ball is considered live as soon as it is either released or handed over under the rules.

In contrast, after a jump ball leaves the official's hand, the ball is considered live, and play can begin. After a goal, the official starting the throw-in count also signifies that the ball is live for the opposing team to inbound it. For a throw-in, once the ball is in the hands of the thrower, it is live immediately upon releasing it.