What characterizes a back-row attack in volleyball?

A back-row attack in volleyball is characterized by a back-row player contacting the ball above the net while positioned in front of the attack line. This rule is fundamental to understanding how back-row players can legally participate in offensive plays. When a back-row player jumps and makes contact with the ball above the net from this position, it constitutes a back-row attack, which can be an effective offensive strategy.

In volleyball, the attack line is a critical boundary that differentiates the roles of front-row and back-row players, with specific restrictions placed on back-row players. If the player were to make contact with the ball above the net while behind the attack line, it would be considered a legal attack but would not be categorized specifically as a back-row attack in this context.

The other options describe actions that do not meet the criteria for a back-row attack. For example, a back-row player setting does not constitute an attack, nor can a libero utilize an attack from an illegal position. Therefore, understanding the specifics of legal contacts in conjunction with positioning relative to the attack line is crucial for players and officials alike.