In the world of professional basketball, shooting free throws underhand, also known as the “granny shot,” is a technique that has garnered both curiosity and controversy over the years. While conventional overhand shooting remains the norm, a few players throughout NBA history have adopted this unconventional method. This article explores who shot free throws underhand in the NBA, the rationale behind this technique, its effectiveness, and the reactions it has elicited.
Who Used the Underhand Free Throw Technique in the NBA?
- Rick Barry:
- Pioneer of the Technique: Rick Barry, a Hall of Fame player known for his exceptional scoring ability, notably employed the underhand free throw technique throughout his career.
- Career Accuracy: Barry achieved remarkable success with this method, boasting a career free throw percentage of over 89%, one of the highest in NBA history.
- Legacy: His proficiency with the underhand shot sparked discussions about its potential benefits and why more players don’t adopt it.
- Wilt Chamberlain:
- Experimentation: Despite his dominance on the court, Wilt Chamberlain, known for his scoring prowess and rebounding records, occasionally experimented with shooting underhand free throws.
- Limited Adoption: While Chamberlain did not fully transition to this technique, his willingness to try alternatives sparked interest in the underhand method’s potential advantages.
Rationale Behind Shooting Underhand Free Throws
- Improved Accuracy:
- Mechanical Advantage: Proponents of the underhand technique argue that it offers a more natural and consistent shooting motion, potentially leading to higher shooting percentages.
- Reduced Tension: Shooting underhand can alleviate wrist and shoulder strain, promoting smoother release and better control over the ball’s trajectory.
- Psychological Benefits:
- Confidence Boost: Some players find shooting underhand less intimidating than the traditional overhand method, resulting in improved mental focus and confidence at the free-throw line.
- Reduced Pressure: By reducing the mental burden associated with conventional shooting mechanics, players may experience fewer performance anxieties during crucial game moments.
Effectiveness and Challenges
- Historical Success: Rick Barry’s career success with the underhand technique underscores its potential effectiveness in achieving high free throw percentages.
- Social Stigma and Perception:
- Traditionalism: Despite potential benefits, shooting underhand remains uncommon in the NBA due to cultural norms and perceptions surrounding the technique.
- Resistance to Change: Players may hesitate to adopt the underhand method due to concerns about how it may be perceived by teammates, coaches, and fans.
Reactions and Impact on the Game
- Media and Public Interest:
- Debate and Discussion: The use of underhand free throws has sparked ongoing debate among basketball enthusiasts, analysts, and players about its viability and cultural acceptance.
- Cultural Significance:
- Legacy of Innovation: Players like Rick Barry and Wilt Chamberlain have contributed to the NBA’s history of innovation and experimentation with different playing styles and techniques.
- Influence on Training: Coaches and trainers may explore unconventional methods like underhand shooting in player development programs to enhance overall shooting proficiency.
Shooting free throws underhand in the NBA remains a fascinating topic that challenges conventional wisdom and highlights the pursuit of efficiency and innovation in basketball. While historically successful players like Rick Barry have demonstrated its potential advantages in accuracy and consistency, widespread adoption continues to face social and cultural barriers within the basketball community. As the NBA evolves and players seek competitive edges, the discussion surrounding underhand free throws persists, reflecting broader debates on tradition, innovation, and performance in professional sports.
In exploring the use of underhand free throws in the NBA, one discovers not only a technical approach to shooting but also a deeper reflection of the sport’s dynamic evolution and the enduring quest for excellence on the court.