How many players from each team are allowed on the free-throw line during a free throw?

During a free throw, the rules stipulate that a maximum of four players from each team can be positioned along the free-throw line and adjacent areas. This allows teams to have a strategic advantage for rebounding the ball upon its potential miss or controlling the area around the basket after the shot. Specifically, one player from the shooting team, who is taking the free throw, stands behind the free-throw line, while up to four players from the defensive team can line up on either side of the lane.

This configuration is meant to promote fairness and balance since it limits the number of players on the line while still allowing teams to contest for the rebound. Thus, the correct understanding reinforces the dynamic between offensive and defensive strategies during this crucial moment in the game.