One of the most popular stats in the modern NBA is how many free throws a team makes in a game. While it is a great way to assess how effective your team's attack is on the basket, it doesn't tell you much about the player who made the shot. There are several reasons why teams are awarded the free throw.
One reason is the NCAA mandate, which says that officials should emphasize hand checks on defense. But the fact is that free throws are often the difference between winning and losing in NBA games. That's why so many players make them. And there are a number of great shooters who are marked by their ability to make them.
The Miami Heat broke a league record by shooting 40 for 40 from the charity stripe on Tuesday night. They also set the all-time record for most free throws in a game, surpassing the previous record of 39 held by the Utah Jazz in 1982.
It's worth pointing out that the NBA has been playing since 1949. Karl Malone, who was born on July 24, 1963, was drafted by the Utah Jazz in 1985. During his career, he attempted 13,188 free throws. He is the only player in the NBA to attempt more than 10,000 free throws.
Another NBA record is that of most consecutive free throws made. Stephen Curry has made 80 consecutive free throws. In fact, the only other player to make 100 consecutive free throws is James Harden. This streak began in December and continued through January. Although this is not a huge accomplishment, it is still impressive.
Free throw shooting has been an important factor in many of the greatest games in basketball history. Whether it's the playoffs or a regular season match-up, free throws are vital. For instance, in the 2008 NBA Finals, the Boston Celtics erased a 24-point lead with an incredible comeback. After Game 4, the Celtics took a 3-1 lead. However, they failed to hold that lead, losing by 23 to the New Orleans Pelicans.
The Golden State Warriors' Stephen Curry holds the NBA record for most free throws made in a game. His streak was broken by Sasha Vujacic in the 2008 NBA Finals, though. Before the Warriors defeated the Spurs in the NBA's return to Los Angeles, the Pistons were on a three-game losing streak. Their three-point shooting was horrendous, with only three attempts on three separate occasions.
The NBA is obsessed with statistics. That's why so many players try their best to be the best when it comes to free throws. Some, like James Harden, shoot a lot, but don't make very many. Others, such as Giannis Antetokounmpo, have poor conversion rates. Still others, such as Tim Duncan, shoot well and have an above-average conversion rate.
Of course, the most coveted free throw record in the NBA is the one for most attempts in a game. It's not a simple matter to break this record. Even the most aggressive players have missed a few times in their careers.
Experience the most thrilling NBA betting Singapore action this season by placing your bets at your favorite online sportsbooks.