The NBA is always evolving and the league signaled a desire to speed up this evolution on Thursday, revealing its plan to test an updated free throw rule during 2026 Summer League games.
Under this new rule, players that are sent to the line will take one shot that counts for how many free throws they were given.
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For example, if a player is fouled on a missed three-point attempt, that player will take one shot from the free throw line that is worth three points.
The standard free-throw rules currently in place would still apply during the last two minutes of regulation and through overtime.
This potential rule update could have a serious impact on the league, as free throw shooting has been a major point of debate in the basketball world in recent years.
On one hand, some casual NBA fans probably prefer to see less free throws. On the other, purists and die-hards may argue that the current structure is perfect the way it has been for 45 years and changing it would only harm the game.
Notably, this updated rule has been in place in the G-League since 2019 and has stuck around ever since.
The NBA also revealed a planned trial for a new “connected basketball” with embedded sensors to help improve the accuracy of calls.
The 2026 Summer Leagues begin on Saturday with the California Classic. Which means we won’t have to wait long to see how this rule change and new technology could impact the game at the highest level.
James Parker is a sports writer for Ball Exclusives, follow him on X @TheJames_Parker
