Can the server serve the ball directly out of their hand?

In volleyball, the rules regarding serving dictate that the server must release the ball from their hand and hit it cleanly to initiate play. To ensure proper execution, the ball must be tossed or released in a controlled manner. Specifically, the rules state that the server cannot let the ball drop directly from their hand without a proper toss; it must be hit after being lifted or tossed into the air. This ensures that the serve is a defined action, creating a fair opportunity for both teams.

The understanding of this rule is critical since it preserves the standard of play and maintains the flow of the game. Other options mention scenarios that don't align with the established serving rules and could lead to confusion or unfair advantages if misapplied.