NBA to implement new rules restricting foul-drawing on jump shots

Ethan Fuller
June 22 2021

The NBA is planning to implement new rules to limit non-basketball moves used to draw fouls beginning next season, pending final discussion and approvals from the Competition Committee and Board of Governors, sources tell The Athletic.

Source: Shams Charania/The Athletic

ANALYSIS: Charania broke down areas where officials will be trained to make judgement calls. These actions will be assessed as either non-fouls or offensive fouls depending on the nature of the play, per Charania:

  • "When a shooter launches or leans into a defender at an abnormal angle."
  • "When a shooter kicks his leg (up or to the side) at an abnormal angle."
  • "When an offensive player abruptly veers off his path (sideways or backward) into a defender."

He added that these rules could take effect as soon as this August during NBA Summer League. Foul-drawing from shooters has been a common criticism towards today's game, and it appears the league is finalizing changes.