02/10/2026
🏀 FIBA OBR 2026 — FREE THROW RULE CLARIFICATION
SHOOT FOR THE RING/BASKET — NOT THE FLOOR.
Under Article 44.2.3, 2nd bullet, the free-throw shooter must use a method of shooting so that the ball enters the basket from above or touches the ring.
So if the shooter deliberately releases the ball toward the floor first, then it bounces upward and eventually enters the basket:
❌ FREE-THROW VIOLATION
❌ NO POINT
Why? Under Article 31.1.1, the free-throw shot ends when the ball touches the floor. Once it hits the floor first, the free-throw attempt has already ended before satisfying the requirement of Art. 44.2.3.
REFEREE KEY POINT
Release → Ring/Basket = Legal attempt ✅
Release → Floor first → Ring/Basket = Violation ❌
The rule requires the free throw to reach the ring or enter the basket from above—not to use the floor as part of the attempt.
📖 FIBA OBR 2026 — Articles 31.1.1 & 44.2.3
Know the Rule. Apply the Rule. Get the Call Right.
