When does continuous motion apply regarding defensive fouls?

Continuous motion applies regarding defensive fouls specifically during shooting situations. When a player is in the act of shooting, any defensive foul that occurs can disrupt the normal flow and rhythm of the play. In such cases, the rules allow for a continuity of play, meaning that if a foul occurs while the shooter is attempting a shot, the shot may still count if it goes in, and the player may be awarded free throws afterward.

This principle is crucial because it reflects the understanding that a player should not be penalized or have their scoring opportunity taken away due to a foul committed while they are executing a shot. In contrast, other scenarios, such as a foul against a player who is not shooting, do not invoke the same application of continuous motion, and thus will lead to different outcomes such as awarding possession to the fouled team without any shooting opportunity.