To foul or not to foul, that is a question...When up 3 late

We're torn on the strategy of fouling when up 3 and on defense. Last night it worked incredibly well for Butler as they allowed the clock to wind down to 2 seconds before fouling and sending Michigan State to the line with no time to do anything except try a missed FT Tap in play.

Of course we all saw what happened with Kansas State attempted to apply the same strategy and Xavier was able to get fouled in the act to shooting and tie the game.

We've also had it backfire in our own experience with referees who for whatever reason decide to pass on the foul and just let a half end which resulted in our fouling player being out of position defensively and allowing a clean look. Additionally we've seen teams get called for intentional fouls in that situation and lose possession of the ball, putting the game in jeopardy.

Fouling when up late is a risky strategy and one we're torn on whether it's right to do or not. It's also risky to allow today's players a clean look at the basket late in a game. This is one that's not easily answered.