M: In ball in hand 8 ball pool, is it legal to intentionally scratch and get a ball in? And is it good sportsmanship?

G: In ball-in-hand 8-ball pool, intentionally scratching while pocketing a ball is legal, but it comes with consequences. When you scratch, your opponent gets ball in hand, meaning they can place the cue ball anywhere on the table. This usually gives them a strong advantage, so it's rarely a good strategic move unless you're setting up a highly favorable position.

As for sportsmanship, intentionally scratching is generally seen as unsportsmanlike unless there's a legitimate strategic reason. If done to manipulate the game unfairly or frustrate an opponent, it could be viewed as disrespectful.