​A rookie for the Los Angeles Clippers caused a stir on Thursday night by trying an unusual approach to free throws, an act that drew reactions from ESPN commentator Doris Burke and NBA fans alike. Nick Martinelli, a left-handed guard who was the No. 55 overall pick from Northwestern, jumped on his free throw attempts during NBA Summer League play in Las Vegas. The sight was enough to leave Burke surprised on air, prompting discussions about whether the tactic is wise in the pros. In the box score, Martinelli finished with 11 points, five rebounds, and two assists in 22 minutes off the bench, a respectable line that didn’t overshadow the spectacle of his free-throw theatrics.
Most of the attention, however, was focused on his distinctive free throw form rather than his scoring or playmaking. This moment served as a reminder that players can, and sometimes do, experiment with technique on the charity stripe. Martinelli’s approach aligns with a broader discussion about whether free throws must be delivered with feet planted or if a jump shot is permissible and potentially advantageous for certain players. Drills, coaching philosophies, and personal preferences all contribute to this ongoing debate, which centers on balance, rhythm, and consistency at the line.
In basketball, players are indeed permitted to jump on free throws, a rule that spans levels of competition, including the NBA. There are two primary reasons some players opt to keep their feet on the ground. First is the letter of the rulebook: until the ball contacts the rim or goes in, a shooter should avoid touching the foul line itself, and a deliberate forward motion or landing on the line could be ruled a violation, nullifying the shot even if it goes in. This consideration alone can push a shooter toward a more grounded stance. The second reason is the pursuit of consistency; fewer moving parts in a shooting motion can, in theory, reduce mechanical variability and the chance for error. Introducing a jump adds complexity and motion, which could compromise shooting percentage.
Yet for now, Martinelli is sticking with his trademark style. Whether this approach will stand the test of time or influence others remains to be seen. The broader context includes strategic decisions surrounding roster moves, such as trade rumors that weigh on teams’ futures and draft positions. For instance, trade chatter involving notable players and teams—from LaMelo Ball’s hypothetical movement to other blockbuster deals—often sparks discussions about how teams navigate cap space, player development, and on-court impact. In the meantime, Martinelli’s free-throw gambit continues to be a talking point, prompting fans and analysts to consider how much form and technique matter at the highest level of competition.
As the Summer League season unfolds, observers will be watching not only for scoring and assists but also for how players refine their shooting mechanics under pressure. The episode with Martinelli underscores a central question in basketball: should players strictly adhere to conventional form, or can unconventional methods—like jumping on free throws—find a foothold in the modern game? While many coaches preach consistency and textbook technique, others spotlight individuality and the potential benefits of deviating from the norm when it leads to improved rhythm and confidence at the line. The discussion continues to generate headlines and commentary as teams evaluate young talent and decide how to best harness each player’s unique approach.
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