It's a 15-foot, uncontested shot. You have a full 10 seconds to take it. Yet why do so many NBA teams not take full advantage of shooting free throws? Since the NBA season is starting to heat up, I thought I'd write about something that always amazes me in basketball. I think, especially in the NBA, teams should at least shoot 80 percent from the line. If you look at the statistics this season, you'll only find 2 teams that are shooting better than 80 percent right now.
Most teams are in the middle to low 70's and there are some that are even in the 60 percent range. That's unforgivable! Let me say this again.......ITS A 15-FOOT UNCONTESTED SHOT!!!!!

Steve Nash began this year 53 of 53 from the line and is currently shooting over 94 percent. He will most likely end his career having the best free throw percentage in league history. I'm not asking everyone to be like him, but making 8 out of every 10 you attempt should be commonplace if you're a pro basketball player.
I'll tell you how bad the free throw shooting has become around the league. In a game last week, the Houston Rockets were at one point, 1-16 from the line. I know 6-year olds that came make 5 of 16!!

It's well documented that Shaquille O'Neal has been one of the worst free throw shooters the NBA has ever seen. His career percentage right now is at 52 percent. The scary thing is that there seems to be more and more guys in the league following his lead from the line. My advice to those guys is simple.....instead of practicing dunks and pull-up 3's, take some time and shoot a few extra free throws.....you'll win more basketball games if you do.