In basketball, how many points is a free throw worth?

In basketball, a free throw is a specific type of shot taken from behind the free-throw line, which is 15 feet from the basket. Each successful free throw is consistently awarded one point, regardless of the circumstances that led to it. This "free" attempt to score is given without opposition, meaning no defenders can interfere with the shot, making it a unique scoring opportunity in the game.

Free throws are typically awarded when a player is fouled by an opponent. If a player is fouled while attempting a shot and misses, they are usually awarded two or three free throws, depending on whether the shot was attempted from inside or outside the three-point line, respectively. An exciting scenario, often called an "and-one" play, occurs when a player is fouled while successfully making a shot; in this case, the made basket counts, and they receive one additional free throw. Free throws are also given for technical fouls or when a team accumulates a certain number of fouls in a period, known as being "in the bonus".

The concept of the free throw has evolved significantly since basketball's invention by James Naismith in 1891. Initially, Naismith's rules didn't include free throws, but penalties for fouls were eventually introduced. Early iterations saw fouls resulting in points for the opposing team or shots from varying distances. By 1896, the free-throw line was set at 15 feet, and a successful free throw was officially valued at one point, a rule that has remained a fundamental part of basketball ever since. Despite being uncontested, the pressure of the moment can make free throws a challenging and critical aspect of the game, often determining the outcome of close contests.