NBA to Experiment with New Free Throw Rule and New Ball
Blazer's Edge • • sports
Key Points:
- The NBA will trial a new free throw rule in the 2026 Summer League, where players attempt only one free throw worth 1, 2, or 3 points depending on the foul type, aiming to improve game flow.
- Traditional free throw rules will remain in effect during the final two minutes of the fourth quarter and throughout overtime.
- The change may emphasize the value of good free throw shooters while penalizing poor shooters, and could influence defensive strategies, particularly on three-point attempts.
- Additionally, the league will introduce a "connected" basketball embedded with sensors to track contact data, potentially aiding officiating decisions in the future without affecting gameplay.
