In basketball, what is the term for a foul committed while shooting that leads to free throws?
VerifiedAnswer: Shooting foul
Explanation:
A shooting foul is one of the most important concepts in basketball that every player and fan should understand. This type of foul occurs when a defensive player makes illegal contact with an offensive player who is in the act of shooting the basketball. The key element here is timing - the foul must happen while the shooter is attempting to score.
When a shooting foul is called, it results in free throws for the fouled player. The number of free throws awarded depends on where the shot was attempted and whether the basket was made despite the foul. If the player was shooting a regular field goal (inside the three-point line) and missed due to the foul, they receive two free throws. If they were attempting a three-point shot, they get three free throws. Interestingly, if the player makes the basket despite being fouled, they get the points plus one additional free throw - this exciting play is called an "and-one."
Examples of shooting fouls include hitting the shooter's arm, pushing them while they're in their shooting motion, or making contact with their body in a way that affects their shot. Referees must determine if the contact occurred during the "act of shooting," which begins when the player starts their upward shooting motion and ends when they return to the floor with both feet after releasing the ball.
Understanding shooting fouls is crucial for players on both offense and defense. Offensive players learn to draw contact while shooting to earn free throws, while defensive players work on contesting shots without making illegal contact. This balance between aggressive defense and avoiding fouls makes basketball the exciting, strategic game that millions love to watch and play.
