How are Penalty Shots Determined in Basketball?
In basketball, penalty shots, commonly referred to as free throws, are awarded under specific conditions when a foul is committed by a defensive player against an offensive player during a shooting attempt or in certain situations.
1. Types of Fouls
Free throws are typically awarded for shooting fouls, where a defensive player makes illegal contact with the shooter. This may include:
- Blocking fouls: When a defender impedes the shooter’s path.
- Reach-in fouls: When a defender reaches in and makes contact with the offensive player while trying to steal the ball.
- Technical fouls: Situations like unsportsmanlike conduct or violations by the coaches resulting in free throws for the opposing team.
2. Free Throw Mechanics
When a shooting foul occurs, the fouled player is awarded two or three free throws depending on whether the shot was a two-point or three-point attempt. If the player makes the shot despite the foul, they receive one additional free throw (and it’s known as an “and-one”).
3. Conditions for Awarding Free Throws
Free throws can also be issued if a team accumulates a certain number of team fouls within a quarter, commonly referred to as the “bonus situation.” After a team commits seven team fouls in a half, the opposing team is given free throws for non-shooting fouls.
4. Free Throw Execution
The player attempting the free throw is positioned behind the free-throw line and must shoot the basketball before stepping over that line. All other players must remain outside a designated area until the ball hits the rim or backboard.