Free Throw Line

/ˈfriː ˌθroʊ laɪn/
[ free throw line ]

Definition of Free Throw Line

The line in basketball where players take free throws, positioned 15 feet away from the backboard.

What is Free Throw Line?

What is ?

In basketball, the free throw line is a line on the court where a player stands to attempt a free throw shot. The line is 15 feet (4.57 meters) away from the plane of the backboard and 12 feet (3.65 meters) in length. Free throw shots are usually awarded following a foul by the opposing team. The free throw line is also the starting point for the players during a free throw shot.

Examples of how to use the basketball term Free Throw Line

What is ?

  1. The player stood at the free throw line, preparing for his shot.
  2. After the foul, she went to the free throw line to attempt a shot and score additional points.
  3. The game was tied until he successfully made two shots from the free throw line.

Free Throw Line Strategy Tips

What is ?

Sharpening your free throws shooting skills can significantly increase your score. It's a chance to earn points without any opposition interference.
Basketball Terminology

Browse the A-Z of Basketball Terms

Learn essential basketball terminology with definitions, pronunciations and the meaning of each word in layman's terms.

What does Free Throw Line mean in Basketball?

In basketball, the Free Throw Line is a mark on the court where a player stands to attempt a free-throw shot, typically following a foul by the opposing team. It's located 15 feet away from the backboard.

How would you explain Free Throw Line in layman's terms?

The Free Throw Line is essentially the spot where basketball players stand to shoot after they've been fouled. It's a line on the court that's a specific distance from the hoop.

Why is the Free Throw Line important in Basketball?

The Free Throw Line is important because it's where players attempt free throw shots after fouls. These are critical opportunities for teams to score points without any opposition on defense.

How far is the Free Throw Line from the hoop?

The Free Throw Line is precisely 15 feet or about 4.57 meters away from the backboard.

What happens at the Free Throw Line after a foul?

After a foul, the fouled player is given one or more attempts to throw the ball into the hoop from the Free Throw Line. This is called a free throw and each successful throw scores one point.

More Basketball Terminology

What is ?