At the start of the 2023-2034 high school basketball season, coaches, players, and fans were introduced to a new rule that could change the outcome of many games.

The new rule changed the free throw guidelines and was decided by the National Federation of State High School Associations in April after high school basketball finals.

High school players will automatically shoot two free throws once the opposing team commits five fouls in a quarter. The foul count resets at the beginning of each quarter.

In the past, teams shot free throws after the opposing team fouled seven times, called the single bonus, also known as one-and-one. Teams would enter the double bonus when the opposing team fouled ten times, granting them a guaranteed two foul shots. 

So far this season, the new rule has not impacted the Rams much. 

“For the most part, the new rule is not affecting the basketball season as much as I expected.  It definitely changes some situations and affects substitute patterns a bit more. I really feel like you start each quarter a bit more aggressive and then adjust as the quarter progresses.  It also makes it a little more difficult for teams to make a comeback if they get behind since there is no bonus and only two-shot free throws,” said Rams Head Coach Dusty Cole.