A free throw is an uncontested shot taken from a designated line 15 feet from the basket, with each successful attempt worth one point. Most fouls result in a change of possession or two free throws, especially when the foul occurs during a shot attempt inside the three-point arc. Rules are specifically designed to protect the high-value three-point shot, leading to unique scenarios where a player is awarded three free throws. This penalty reflects the potential three points denied by the defensive foul.
Fouled on a Missed Three-Point Shot
The most common situation resulting in three free throws is when a player is fouled while attempting a three-point field goal, and the shot misses. This rule applies across major basketball organizations, including the NBA, NCAA, and FIBA, recognizing the significant scoring opportunity that was interrupted. The foul must occur while the player is considered “in the act of shooting,” meaning they have gathered the ball and begun their upward motion toward the basket.
The rationale is to compensate the offensive team for the three points they were prevented from scoring. If the foul happens before the shooting motion begins, it is typically ruled a common foul, resulting in an inbound pass or two free throws if the fouling team is over the limit.
This rule also includes protection for the shooter’s landing space. If a defender closes out on a three-point shooter and steps under their feet, causing contact that prevents a safe landing, a foul is called. The shooter is awarded three free throws if the shot misses.
The Four-Point Play
A direct variation of the three-shot scenario occurs when a player is fouled while shooting a three-point shot, but the shot is successful and goes into the basket. The three points for the made field goal are immediately counted and added to the team’s score. The player is then awarded one additional free throw attempt.
This entire sequence is officially known as a “Four-Point Play,” as the player has the opportunity to score four points on a single possession. The three points from the made shot plus the one point from the successful free throw combine for the maximum score possible on a single shooting foul.
Flagrant Fouls and Context
Three free throws can also be awarded following a flagrant foul committed against a three-point shooter. A flagrant foul involves contact that is deemed unnecessary or excessive, such as a hard hit to the head or a dangerous undercut of the legs. If a player is fouled flagrantly while attempting a three-pointer and the shot misses, they receive three free throws.
The penalty for a flagrant foul is more severe than a common shooting foul, as the fouled team is also granted possession of the ball after the free throws are completed. This dual penalty of free throws plus retained possession serves as a strong deterrent against overly aggressive or potentially injurious play. This is a distinct difference from a common shooting foul, where possession is typically contested after the final free throw.
This three-shot foul contrasts with the standard two-shot foul, which is awarded for a foul on a missed shot taken inside the three-point line. The distinction highlights the value placed on the three-point shot in the modern game.