Free Throw Lane

[RobbyinTN]

Originally Posted by Refsmitty

If defenders do not want the top two lane spaces - nearest the thrower... can the offense take them. Reading the rule below I would say no, but I always thought that if the defense didn't want the the offense could occupy.

Rule 8.1.4
During a free throw, lane spaces may be occupied as follows:
a. Marked lane spaces may be occupied by a maximum of four defensive and
two offensive players.

You answered your own question (in the bold) If the defensive team does not occupy the top lane spaces, they remain vacant. The defense must of course occupy the bottom lane spaces