Revolutionizing the Game: NBA's New One Free Throw Rule and Connected Basketball Technology
The NBA is set to introduce a new rule during the 2026 summer league events called the "one free throw rule." This rule simplifies the free-throw process by allowing players to shoot just one free throw regardless of the foul's location, with the make counting for one, two, or three points. The traditional free-throw rules will still apply in the final two minutes of regulation and overtime.
The NBA G League has already implemented this rule to enhance game flow, and the NBA is considering following suit. While some fans have expressed concerns about rewarding inefficient free-throw shooters, others argue that it could improve game flow, especially for slower shooters like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Victor Wembanyama.
In addition to the new free-throw rule, the NBA will also test a "connected basketball" during the summer league. This basketball will have an embedded sensor that detects contact with the ball without affecting its weight or playability. The data collected from the ball will assist officials in making calls like last-touch-out-of-bounds decisions.
The NBA is known for constantly evolving and experimenting with new rules and technologies to enhance the game. With the introduction of the one free throw rule and the connected basketball, the league is exploring innovative ways to improve the overall basketball experience for players and fans alike.
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