Free throw

Free throws or foul shots, in basketball, are attempts to score points unopposed from the free throw line (informally known as the charity stripe), and are generally awarded after a foul by the opposing team.

Procedure

Free throws are an organised process. The shooter takes his place behind the free throw line (4.5 metres or 15 feet from the basket). All other players must stand in their correct places until the ball leaves the shooter's hands:

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Three people from the defensive team and two people from the shooting team line up along the sides of the restricted area (keyhole, paint, lane). These players are normally the ones that rebound the ball. Three line up on one side and two on the other. A defensive player always takes the place closest to the basket.

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The remaining four players, two from each team, must remain behind the three point line and the free throw line extended (an imaginary line extended from the free throw line in both directions to the sidelines).

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Leaving their designated places before the ball leaves the shooter's hands, interfering with the ball, and (for the defensive team only) attempting to put off the shooter, are all violations. In addition, the shooter must release the ball within five seconds (ten in the NBA) and must not step on or over the free throw line until the ball touches the ring. A violation by the shooter cancels the free throw; a violation by the defensive team results in a substitute free throw if the shooter missed; a violation by the offensive team or a shot that completely misses the ring results in the loss of possession to the defensive team (only if it is on the last free throw).

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