NBA Free Throw Mechanics Question

[ilyazhito]

Since the NBA resumed play in the bubble, Lead now handles the ball on all free throws. This change has persisted into the 2020-21 NBA season as well. I don't know if it is a temporary thing due to the virus, or a permanent shift in the NBA mechanics.

[Rich]

I'm not that old and I remember when the T (in 2-person) handed the ball on EVERY free throw. That's how my career started. And then there were no games worked 3-person in HS basketball.

I *almost* had to work 2-person on Friday night. Oh, the horrors.

[JRutledge]

Originally Posted by Rich

I'm not that old and I remember when the T (in 2-person) handed the ball on EVERY free throw. That's how my career started. And then there were no games worked 3-person in HS basketball.

I *almost* had to work 2-person on Friday night. Oh, the horrors.

This did not change until the early 2000s. I did not understand why the NBA wanted to do this again in the first place.

Peace

[BillyMac]

Originally Posted by Rich

I remember when the T (in 2-person) handed the ball on EVERY free throw.

Originally Posted by JRutledge

This did not change until the early 2000s.

1999-2000. After the trail stated the number of free throws the lead bounced the ball to the trail.

It was supposed to be crisp, well timed bounce pass, or the lead heard about it later in the locker room.

[BillyMac]

Originally Posted by Rich

I'm not that old and I remember when the T (in 2-person) handed the ball on EVERY free throw ...

And in ancient times the NFHS had the trail, on free throws (and most other times), always positioned on the left side of the free throw shooter.