Where Do You Stand in a Free Throw

After the referee awards free throws, the shooter must stand behind the free throw line at the end of the restricted area on the basketball court to take the shot.

Do you have to keep your feet on the ground for a free throw?

In 1956, in response to reports that Wilt Chamberlain was able to dunk free throws, the NCAA established a rule requiring that free throw shooters keep both feet behind the free throw line during an attempt.

Why is there a nail at the free throw line?

The nail is at the center of the free throw line and its technical purpose is to line up the basketball goal so that it is centered and perfectly aligned with the basketball court.