Rasheed Bello Shoe Block: In a remarkable display of ingenuity on the basketball court, Rasheed Bello stole the spotlight during the Purdue Fort Wayne Mastodons’ game against the University of Southern Indiana Screaming Eagles. In the midst of the game, Bello found himself without his right shoe but didn’t let it hinder his defensive prowess. Rather than stopping to put it back on, he seized the fallen sneaker and continued to play.
The unexpected twist occurred when the opposing team’s Jack Campion attempted a shot, and Bello, holding his shoe in his right hand, used it to block the shot. To everyone’s amazement, the size 12 shoe successfully thwarted the attempt, allowing Bello’s teammate to regain possession.
According to off-duty referee and University of Southern Indiana announcer Zane Clodfelter, using a shoe to block a shot is within the rules of the game, as long as it isn’t thrown. The Mastodons’ official Twitter account even speculated if this could be the first recorded instance of a block with a shoe, suggesting it should be sent to the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts.
Fort Wayne head coach Jon Coffman commended Bello’s quick thinking and defensive effort, emphasizing the team’s mantra of doing “Whatever It Takes” to secure a defensive stop. The unconventional move sparked a late-game surge for the Mastodons, resulting in a 70-57 victory, advancing their season record to 9-1. In addition to the shoe block, Bello contributed 12 points and five rebounds.
Known for his robust defense, Bello’s innovative use of the ‘shoe block’ adds a unique chapter to his basketball journey. While this may not become a regular technique, it showcased Bello’s ability to think on his feet and contribute to his team’s success in unexpected ways.
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Our Reader’s Queries
Can you use your shoe to block a shot in basketball?
USI announcer Zane Clodfelter clarifies that blocking a shot with a shoe is permissible in basketball, as long as it is not thrown.
What is a shoe block?
A block that features two sheaves, positioned one above the other and at right angles to each other, is commonly referred to as an input. This type of block is often used in various applications, including rigging and lifting operations. With its unique design, the input block can effectively distribute the load and reduce friction, making it an essential tool for many industries. Whether you’re a professional in the construction or maritime industry, the input block is a reliable and efficient solution for your needs.