Today, players will raise their hands to acknowledge the foul and to signify that the call was correct. This sort of foul occurs to halt a fast break, to frighten or get into an opponent's head, to prevent a highly likely basket (such as a sure slam or breakaway layup), or to place a bad free throw shooter on the line. These are all common reasons for raising your hand. The first player to legally touch the ball after it has been fouled is awarded possession. If no one touches the ball first, then the referee will blow the whistle to signal that play has resumed with a free-throw attempt by the opposing team. During this time, the player who committed the foul should not approach the bench area or else he will be called for a technical foul. However, coaches can approach the bench area to talk with their players if necessary. In addition, players may raise their hands in protest of a call by the referee or to simply acknowledge that a foul was committed against them. Although this is not recommended, if you feel like you have enough strength left on the court after a foul to raise your hand, go ahead. There is no need to worry about being called for a technical because this type of foul does not stop play so there is no danger of ending up with a flagrant foul on your record.