- Free throws have never been more important than in today’s game
- Making foul shots could make or break a championship season
- The NBA’s greatest foul merchants happen to be superstar players
In the fast-paced and ever-evolving world of the National Basketball Association, statistics offer a window into the dynamic performances of its players. As the game continues to evolve, so do the strategies and skills employed on the court. One crucial aspect of a player’s arsenal is their ability to draw fouls and earn trips to the free-throw line, a fundamental skill that can often tip the balance of a game. In this exploration of NBA prowess, we delve into the realm of free-throw attempts over the last two decades, uncovering the 20 players who have mastered the art of getting to the charity stripe.
- 20. Lou Williams – 4,803 Free Throws
- 19. Damian Lillard – 4,946 Free Throws
- 18. Amar’e Stoudemire – 4,960 Free Throws
- 17. Jimmy Butler – 4,982 Free Throws
- 16. Tim Duncan – 4,803 Free Throws
- 15. Pau Gasol – 5,269 Free Throws
- 14. Chris Paul – 5,435 Free Throws
- 13. Chris Bosh – 5,591 Free Throws
- 12. Giannis Antetokounmpo – 5,645 Free Throws
- 11. Paul Pierce – 5,799 Free Throws
- 10. Dirk Nowitzki – 6,161 Free Throws
- 9. DeMar DeRozan – 6,725 Free Throws
- 8. Kobe Bryant – 6,834 Free Throws
- 7. Russell Westbrook – 7,352 Free Throws
- 6. Dwyane Wade – 7,463 Free Throws
- 5. Kevin Durant – 7,487 Free Throws
- 4. Carmelo Anthony – 7,764 Free Throws
- 3. James Harden – 8,556 Free Throws
- 2. Dwight Howard – 9,455 Free Throws
- 1. LeBron James – 11,000 Free Throws
From sharpshooters to powerhouses, these athletes have honed their ability to navigate the chaos of the court and command the attention of defenders, leaving a mark on the game that extends beyond the confines of the hardwood. Even more so than ever, the modern game has many players trying their best to draw contact and even flop if it means gaining the advantage of foul shots. While that has always been the case, the modern game has revolutionized this tactic.
Even so, join us as we take a closer look at the 20 NBA players who have amassed the most free-throw attempts in the last 20 years, showcasing their determination, skill, and impact on the sport.
20. Lou Williams – 4,803 Free Throws
Free-Throw Stats: 4,042 – 4,803 (84.2%)
Williams’ ability to draw fouls is a testament to his scoring prowess and his knack for navigating through defenses. His crafty ball-handling, change of pace, and shot-creating skills have consistently put defenders in compromising positions, forcing them to commit fouls to prevent easy baskets.
As a prominent figure coming off the bench, Williams was also given the freedom to attack the basket at will as soon as he checked in the game. His role as a scoring spark plug off the bench means that his ability to get to the line contributes to not only his personal point total but also to changing the game’s dynamics, which is why he won three Sixth Man of the Year awards.
19. Damian Lillard – 4,946 Free Throws
Free-Throw Stats: 4,427 – 4,946 (89.5%)
Damian Lillard has emerged as one of the most dynamic and clutch players in the NBA, with his ability to draw fouls and earn free-throw attempts standing as a significant aspect of his scoring prowess. Due to his three-point shooting, in which he averages 37.2%, forces defenders to get tight to him, and this gives the advantage to Dame to blow past the defender and get to the basket and draw fouls. Of course, Lillard’s confidence and poise in high-pressure situations have earned him a reputation as one of the most reliable late-game scorers in the league.
His ball-handling skills, quickness, and shifty moves allow him to penetrate defenses and create contact, forcing opponents to defend him closely. This combination of skills makes Lillard a formidable force as a driver to the basket, which is why he has nearly 5,000 free-throw attempts over the last two decades.
18. Amar’e Stoudemire – 4,960 Free Throws
Free-Throw Stats: 3,822 – 4,960 (77.1%)
Amar’e Stoudemire, with his explosive athleticism and powerful playing style, carved a distinct path in the NBA as a dominant force near the rim. Stoudemire’s physicality and agility allowed him to establish a presence in the paint, where he could finish with authority and draw contact. His quickness and explosiveness made him a constant threat around the rim, forcing defenders to engage physically, often leading to fouls.
Amar’e Stoudemire’s proficiency in the pick-and-roll game alongside Suns superstar Steve Nash contributed to his ability to draw fouls. His seamless chemistry with point guards and his ability to finish strong after receiving the ball in motion made him a formidable pick-and-roll partner. More often than not, Stoudemire was heading to the free-throw line with an and-one.
17. Jimmy Butler – 4,982 Free Throws
Free-Throw Stats: 4,196 – 4,982 (84.2%)
Jimmy Butler, known for his tenacious defense, versatile scoring, and leadership on the court, has carved out a prominent niche in the NBA landscape. His physical playing style and aggressiveness have made him a consistent threat to get to the free-throw line. His ability to attack the rim, absorb contact, and finish through defenders showcases his willingness to initiate and welcome physical challenges.
Butler’s craftiness in creating shot opportunities and his adeptness at converting a variety of shots make him a difficult cover for defenders. Whether it’s driving to the rim, hitting mid-range jumpers, or stepping back for three-pointers, Butler’s multi-dimensional scoring keeps defenders on their toes and often leads to fouls when they are caught off balance.
16. Tim Duncan – 4,803 Free Throws
Free-Throw Stats: 3,452 – 5,028 (68.7%)
Tim Duncan, known as “The Big Fundamental,” was a model of consistency, excellence, and versatility throughout his illustrious NBA career. Duncan’s fundamental skills and basketball IQ extended to his ability to navigate through defenses and draw fouls. His footwork, positioning, and understanding of defensive rotations allowed him to create advantageous scoring opportunities near the basket.
As a dominant post player, Duncan’s presence in the paint often forced defenders to resort to fouling to prevent easy baskets. His array of post moves, hook shots, and turnaround jumpers made him a consistent scoring threat from close range. Even if he shot under 70%, the big man could make them when it counted.
15. Pau Gasol – 5,269 Free Throws
Free-Throw Stats: 4,001 – 5,269 (75.9%)
Pau Gasol, an internationally acclaimed basketball talent, left an indelible mark on the NBA with his versatile skills, basketball IQ, and graceful playing style. While not commonly associated with high free-throw attempt volume, Gasol’s ability to draw fouls and capitalize on free-throw opportunities played a pivotal role in his offensive impact over the last two decades.
His finesse, footwork, and soft shooting touch allowed him to score from various positions on the court. Gasol’s ability to hit mid-range jumpers, execute post moves, and finish around the rim made him a challenging matchup for defenders. His versatility often compelled opponents to resort to fouling to contain his scoring threat. Luckily for the Memphis Grizzlies, Los Angeles Lakers, and Chicago Bulls, Gasol was consistent for a big man with an average of 75.9% shooting.
14. Chris Paul – 5,435 Free Throws
Free-Throw Stats: 4,729 – 5,435 (87.0%)
Paul’s exceptional ball-handling and penetration abilities have been pivotal in his success at drawing fouls. His quick first step, change of pace, and shifty dribbling make him a constant threat to break down defenses and get to the rim. Defenders who attempt to halt his drives often resort to fouling to prevent easy baskets, leading to free-throw opportunities for Paul.
Paul’s proficiency in the mid-range game has played a significant role in his ability to draw fouls. His ability to stop on a dime and pull up for jumpers makes him a challenging assignment for defenders. Many of the players have learned from Paul’s knack for absorbing contact, and even if it can be a bit excessive, it certainly works, as the point guard has shot over 87.0% from the line.
13. Chris Bosh – 5,591 Free Throws
Free-Throw Stats: 4,466 – 5,591 (79.9%)
Chris Bosh’s versatility as a big man was a key factor in his ability to draw fouls. His ability to stretch the floor with his mid-range jump shot made him a challenging matchup for traditional bigs. As defenders closed out on him, Bosh’s knack for pump fakes and shot creation often led to fouls, allowing him to capitalize from the free-throw line.
Bosh’s footwork and finesse in the post were crucial in his ability to draw fouls. Defenders who sought to disrupt his rhythm often found themselves committing fouls to prevent easy baskets, leading to trips to the free-throw line for Bosh. The power forward wasn’t a powerhouse, but his finesse skill allowed him to fool defenders and get to the line with a percentage of over 79%.
12. Giannis Antetokounmpo – 5,645 Free Throws
Free-Throw Stats: 3,996 – 5,645 (70.8%)
Giannis’ explosive drives to the basket and transition play have been key factors in his ability to draw fouls. His remarkable speed, agility, and length make him a force to be reckoned with in the open court. The Greek Freak’s combination of size, length, and skill makes him a nearly unstoppable force near the rim. Fortunately for defenders, fouling him is a better strategy than allowing him to dunk and get easy layups since he has shot under 71%.
His ability to finish through contact and convert difficult shots in traffic often leads to fouls by defenders attempting to halt his progress. Giannis’ physicality and determination contribute to his frequent trips to the free-throw line because there isn’t a way a player can stop a 7’0”, 242-lb behemoth who can move like a guard.
11. Paul Pierce – 5,799 Free Throws
Free-Throw Stats: 4,746 – 5,799 (81.8%)
Paul Pierce’s scoring prowess, encompassing a variety of shot-making skills, was a cornerstone of his ability to draw fouls. His polished footwork, step-back jumpers, and an array of scoring moves made him a challenging assignment for defenders. That is the reason why The Truth averaged 19.7 points per game over his career and was a go-to scorer for the majority of his playing stints in Boston.
Pierce’s reputation as a clutch performer translated to his ability to earn free-throw attempts in critical moments. His confidence and composure under pressure made him a reliable option in late-game situations. As defenders intensified their efforts to contain him during pivotal stretches, Pierce’s ability to navigate through tight defenses frequently led to fouls and crucial free-throw opportunities. Considering he shot over 81%, Pierce was a stone-cold killer.
10. Dirk Nowitzki – 6,161 Free Throws
Free-Throw Stats: 5,478 – 6,161 (88.9%)
Dirk Nowitzki’s impact on the game extended beyond his 7-foot frame. His ability to stretch the floor and shoot from long range revolutionized the role of the scoring big man in the NBA. As defenders were forced to contest his jump shots beyond the arc, Nowitzki’s shot-fake and pump-fake moves often led to fouls, allowing him to excel from the free-throw line.
Nowitzki’s signature fadeaway jump shot, executed with impeccable footwork and precision, was a hallmark of his offensive arsenal. His ability to create separation with that move, combined with his shooting touch, frequently drew fouls from defenders who struggled to contest his shot without making contact. Nowitzki’s mastery of this technique contributed to his effectiveness in generating free-throw attempts.
9. DeMar DeRozan – 6,725 Free Throws
Free-Throw Stats: 5,649 – 6,725 (84.0%)
DeMar DeRozan, known for his smooth scoring ability, footwork, and mid-range game, has established himself as one of the premier shooting guards in the NBA over the last two decades. While not typically among the highest in free-throw attempt volume, DeRozan’s ability to draw fouls and capitalize on free-throw opportunities has been a significant aspect of his offensive prowess.
DeRozan’s proficiency in the mid-range game has played a key role in his ability to draw fouls. His polished footwork and ability to create separation on jump shots often force defenders into challenging positions. As opponents attempt to contest his shots, they frequently make contact, leading to fouls and trips to the free-throw line for DeRozan. Luckily for the Toronto Raptors, San Antonio Spurs, and Chicago Bulls, he shot 84.0%.
8. Kobe Bryant – 6,834 Free Throws
Free-Throw Stats: 5,739 – 6,834 (84.0%)
People remember Kobe Bryant for his perimeter shooting and post moves, but his ability to draw contact through pump fakes was iconic. Bryant could fool even the greatest defensive players, and many of the elite ones that played against him, including Ron Artest, Matt Barnes, Raja Bell, and Tony Allen, failed. To be fair, anybody would have failed when it came to not falling victim to his pump fakes.
The league was catering to offense at that time, but nowhere near as much as in today’s game. It is likely that Bryant would have easily had over 800 foul attempts in today’s game because his slipperiness and ability to play angles meant defenders would have to bump him more often than not. Considering how elite Bryant was at scoring the ball, his free-throw accuracy was a major reason he is regarded as arguably the best scorer ever alongside Michael Jordan.
7. Russell Westbrook – 7,352 Free Throws
Free-Throw Stats: 5,718 – 7,352 (77.8%)
Russell Westbrook, renowned for his explosive athleticism, relentless energy, and triple-double prowess, has left an indelible mark on the NBA over the last two decades. Westbrook’s relentless drives to the basket and attacking mentality are primary factors in his ability to draw fouls. His combination of speed, strength, and explosiveness make him a formidable force when driving to the rim.
Defenders who attempt to challenge his aggressive forays often find themselves resorting to fouls to prevent easy baskets, leading to valuable free-throw opportunities for Westbrook. If Russ isn’t fouled, a poster dunk was likely on the way, and nobody wants to be a part of that. With a 77.8% free-throw shooting clip, Russ has done a great job knocking down shots and not giving the defense an advantage.
6. Dwyane Wade – 7,463 Free Throws
Free-Throw Stats: 5,708 – 7,463 (76.5%)
Dwyane Wade, a dynamic shooting guard known for his athleticism, scoring ability, and competitiveness, has etched his name as one of the NBA’s all-time greats over the last two decades. Wade’s aggressive drives to the basket and penetration skills were central to his ability to draw fouls. His quick first step, ball-handling, and creativity allowed him to navigate through defenses and attack the rim.
Amazingly, despite retiring after the 2018-19 season, Wade ranks 6th in terms of free-throws attempted. That means the Miami Heat legend relied on his free-throw shooting more often than not, and drawing fouls was the best way to generate points. Considering he wasn’t a great perimeter shooter, Wade’s skill from the stripe proved immensely important.
5. Kevin Durant – 7,487 Free Throws
Free-Throw Stats: 6,631 – 7,487 (88.6%)
Kevin Durant, a transcendent scorer, and versatile forward, has solidified his place as one of the greatest players in NBA history over the last two decades. Durant’s vast scoring arsenal, including his silky jump shot and ability to score from all levels, is a primary factor in his ability to draw fouls. His height, length, and shooting touch make him a matchup nightmare for defenders.
At nearly 7 feet tall, who could stop one of the greatest shooters ever? As opponents struggle to contain his scoring, they often resort to fouling to prevent easy baskets, leading to valuable free-throw opportunities for Durant. His isolation prowess and one-on-one skills play a significant role in his ability to draw fouls. Unfortunately for defenders, the best strategy against Durant is contesting jumpers and hoping they miss because if he is fouled, he will nail almost 90% every single game.
4. Carmelo Anthony – 7,764 Free Throws
Free-Throw Stats: 6,320 – 7,764 (81.4%)
Carmelo Anthony is in fourth place, and that is a true testament to his greatness as a scorer. When mentioning the all-time greats of offensive players, Anthony’s name should be mentioned more often. The superstar forward not only draws fouls around the rim but can also use his patented pump fakes to get the defender in the air and force the referee to blow the whistle. Whether he was with the Denver Nuggets or New York Knicks, Anthony always found a way to gain the advantage of fouls.
Shooting over 81% from the stripe over the past two decades, Carmelo literally was impossible to defend in his prime. He was extremely strong with a low center of gravity and could spin with quickness. When asking the majority of elite defensive players about which players are hardest to guard, one of the names that often come up is Carmelo Anthony.
3. James Harden – 8,556 Free Throws
Free-Throw Stats: 7,357 – 8,556 (86.0%)
James Harden appears in third place, and whether we like it or not, he deserves to be ranked this high. The Beard flails on nearly every drive attempt but still somehow gets the advantage of the referee’s whistle. There are times when he is fouled, obviously, but Harden has built his offensive game plan on using the defender’s body and hands against them. That means James is nearly impossible to defend in the modern era.
That is why Harden went on a mad scoring tear between the 2017-18 and 2019-20 seasons, averaging 30.4 PPG, 36.1 PPG, and 34.3 PPG, respectively. The Beard won three straight scoring titles, and his 36.1 PPG average was truly impressive, considering three defenders were often racing at him. Harden is one of the game’s greatest scorers, and his skill of drawing fouls is a major reason why.
2. Dwight Howard – 9,455 Free Throws
Free-Throw Stats: 5,361 – 9,455 (56.7%)
A defensive stalwart with exceptional athleticism for his size, Dwight Howard was truly the most dominant center in the game during his stint with the Orlando Magic between 2007 and 2012. There was simply no answer for him because at 6’10″ with boulders as shoulders, Howard was an immovable force who could also sky high and finish over defenders. Weighing 265 lbs, he was a muscle mountain.
No surprise, he attempted over 9,000 free throws over his career. Unfortunately for him and fortunately for defenders, he was a poor free-throw shooter. The big man shot 56.7% for his career, which meant going 1-1 was the most usual outcome when he was fouled. Cursed with the same lack of skill as Shaquille O’Neal, Wilt Chamberlain, and other centers, Howard could never find a form that worked. Regardless, he still made over 5,000 foul shots, so he was still trusted to be playing at the end of games.
1. LeBron James – 11,000 Free Throws
Free-Throw Stats: 8,087 – 11,000 (73.5%)
LeBron James is the longevity King, no pun intended, and the fact that he has been able to remain a top-5 player in the world until the 2022-23 season is a true testament to his greatness. James attacks the rim with force and athleticism, never gives an inch to defenders in terms of being stopped, and simply is a locomotive, unlike any other player of his time. James has added immense speed and verticality to a physique akin to the great Karl Malone.
LeBron James has attempted 11,000 free throws over the past two decades, and this number will only get higher as the months go by in the upcoming season. He cannot be stopped by one defender when he drives, demands consistent double teams, and has also found a way to draw fouls on jump shots. With over 2,500 more made free throws than Dwight Howard, James headlines the list of talented foul-drawers.
