Systems and methodologies are described that facilitate soft handoff and enhanced performance in a wireless communication environment. In multiple access systems, access points assign certain resources (e.g., time, frequency, code) to each terminal. This assignment information can also be provided to neighboring sectors, allowing such sectors to receive and decode terminal transmissions. The information can be provided via backhaul signaling. Decoding by sectors within the active set of the terminal facilitates smooth transition as terminals move between sectors during soft handoff. In addition, sectors can signal successful receipt and decoding of transmissions, avoiding redundant processing.