Free throw
An unopposed shot at the basket awarded after certain fouls, taken from the free-throw line.
Definition
In basketball, a free throw is worth one point and is taken from the free-throw line with no defenders allowed to block it. Players are usually given free throws when they are fouled while shooting, or when the opposing team has committed certain fouls.
Free throws give the fouled team a chance to score without interference, so accurate free-throw shooting can be an important part of a close game. Other players line up along the lane and may contest the rebound once the ball is released.
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Rules
- Personal fouls and free throwsThe basketball rules covering illegal contact and the uncontested shots awarded when a player is fouled.
- Direct and indirect free kicksThe two types of free kick awarded in football to restart play after a foul or other stoppage.
- The lineoutHow rugby union restarts play after the ball goes into touch — where the lineout forms, how many players it may contain, the throw requirements, lifting, and the 10-metre offside line.
- Throw-inThe method of restarting football when the ball fully crosses a side line, taken by throwing it back into play.
- GoaltendingA basketball violation for interfering with a shot while the ball is on its downward path to the basket or above the rim.
Skills
Techniques
- Jump ShotA basketball shot released at the top of a vertical jump, letting the shooter get the ball over a defender with a soft, arcing release.
- Free ThrowAn unguarded basketball shot taken from the free-throw line, relying on a calm, repeatable routine rather than power.
- LayupA close-range basketball shot taken while moving toward the basket, laying the ball softly off the backboard or over the rim.
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- 2026-09-01
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