What happens when a player commits a personal foul?

When a player commits a personal foul in basketball, the opposing team is awarded free throw attempts in certain situations. This consequence serves both as a penalty for the fouling team and an opportunity for the opposing team to gain points. Personal fouls typically occur when a player makes illegal physical contact with an opponent. Depending on the type and timing of the foul, it can result in a free throw being awarded.

For example, if a player's foul occurs during a shooting attempt, the fouled player receives free throws for those fouls as part of the game's rules. The number of free throws awarded can depend on various factors, such as whether the shot was attempted from inside or outside the three-point line and whether the player was in the act of shooting.

Understanding this rule is crucial for players and teams, as managing fouls effectively can significantly impact the game, including strategizing when to foul or how to avoid committing unnecessary fouls to prevent giving free scoring opportunities to the opponent.