FIBA to curb controversial foul-baiting three-point attempts next season

FIBA will tighten its rules for the 2026/2027 season, introducing a clarification that is aimed at stopping a tactic many critics say “ruins basketball.” The change will begin next season in FIBA competitions and domestic leagues, but not yet in the EuroLeague or EuroCup.

The move targets situations in which a player beyond midcourt prepares for contact, then starts a shooting motion to draw a foul and earn three free throws. Under the new clarification, a player cannot be awarded free throws for a three-point shooting attempt if he released it from his own half, except when the 24-second clock or the quarter clock is about to expire.

FIBA said a player will only be considered in a shooting action if he is in the half-court of the basket he is attacking. In addition, he will not be deemed to be in a shooting motion if he is not facing the basket when he begins the shot.

FIBA also specified that a “shooting motion” counts only once the player has already started lifting his shoulders and the ball toward the basket. The clarification takes effect with the opening of the new season.