It’s only the preseason in the NBA, but we’ve seen a glimpse of something that could become a bit of a phenomenon during the regular season: The underhanded free throw!
During a Rockets-Pelicans preseason game on Wednesday in China, Rockets rookie Chinanu Onuaku was at the free throw line when he lofted up a shot underhanded. The ball went in and has left basketball fans wondering if this will return as a fixture in the NBA.
https://youtu.be/roxj-So4gyY
Onuaku — a rookie second-round selection by Houston — began the unorthodox shooting motion during his time at Louisville, after he had been a horrendous shooter overhand. Since changing his motion, his free-throw percentage has seen a notable increase.
The underhanded free throw was made famous by former NBA star Rick Barry. His son, Canyon, followed in his father’s footsteps while playing at the College of Charleston.
While this move might help Onuaku be a better free-throw shooter, it also helps Houston become a more interesting product. Think about it- would we be talking about a Rockets preseason game if Onuaku didn’t shoot free throws underhanded?
[Deadspin]
