Bonus

/ˈboʊnəs/
[ boh-nuhs ]

Definition of Bonus

A basketball term meaning the opposing team is allowed to take free throws after non-shooting fouls.

What is Bonus in Basketball?

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In basketball, the term "Bonus" (also referred to as "in the bonus") describes a situation that occurs when one team accumulates a certain number of fouls, which varies depending on the league. Once this threshold is reached, the opposing team is awarded free throws for non-shooting defensive fouls, even if the fouled player didn't attempt a shot when fouled. This rule encourages fair play and discourages teams from excessive fouling.

Examples of how to use the basketball term Bonus

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  1. The Lakers are in the bonus so they will go to the free-throw line whenever they are fouled.
  2. With the Knicks in the bonus, their strategy changed to driving to the basket to draw fouls.
  3. Being in the bonus late in the game can be a significant advantage, earning free throw attempts with each foul.

Bonus Strategy Tips

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A team that's on bonus has an added advantage. A good strategy would be to draw fouls aggressively as they will result in free throws, providing extra opportunities to score points.
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What does Bonus mean in Basketball?

In basketball, Bonus means that a team has reached a certain number of fouls. Once in the bonus, the opposing team is awarded free throws for non-shooting fouls, regardless of whether an attempt to shoot was made.

How would you explain Bonus in layman's terms?

'Bonus' in basketball means that the other team has fouled you sufficiently many times. So, every time they foul you now, even if you weren't trying to score, you get a chance to shoot free throws.

When does a team go into Bonus?

A team goes into Bonus when the opposing team has committed a certain number of team fouls in a half or quarter, depending on the league's rules.

What's the advantage of being in the Bonus?

The advantage of being in the Bonus is that it grants a team free throw opportunities for every defensive foul committed by the opposing team, which can significantly increase scoring opportunities.

How many fouls are needed for Bonus in NBA?

In NBA, a team goes into Bonus on the fifth team foul in a quarter. After that, any defensive foul leads to free throws, except offensive fouls.

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