The NBA will test a one-free-throw rule during its July summer league series, continuing an evaluation process that has already taken place in the G League.
The rule is designed to replace certain trips to the foul line with a single free throw, rather than the traditional multiple attempts. Summer league provides the NBA with a controlled setting to assess experimental rules and technology in live game conditions.
In addition to the free throw format, the league will also test basketballs equipped with embedded sensors. The technology will be evaluated during summer league play as part of the NBA’s broader review of potential game and data innovations.
Summer league has frequently served as a testing ground for adjustments before any wider consideration at higher levels of competition. The one-free-throw rule and sensor-equipped basketballs will be among the key items monitored during July’s games.