Unprecedented NBA Moment: Boston Celtics Make History by Not Attempting a Single Free Throw in Game vs Milwaukee Bucks

The Boston Celtics made history during their game against the Milwaukee Bucks. In a 104-91 loss, the Celtics achieved a unique milestone that had never been seen before in the NBA. They became the first team in the league's history to not attempt a single free throw in a game.

To add to the oddity, the Bucks only attempted two free throws, setting a new record for the lowest number of free throws taken in an NBA game.

In addition, the Bucks only committed four fouls throughout the entire game, setting a new record for the fewest fouls in NBA history.

Bucks head coach Doc Rivers mentioned that NBA Commissioner Adam Silver seemed very happy about the game duration, which was only one hour and 57 minutes according to ESPN. He jokingly commented that with such a short game, fans could even attend a game and still have time for dinner afterwards. It was truly unbelievable.

After initially thinking the game was physical, Doc Rivers was surprised when he received the stat sheet and realized that he only had the summary. He jokingly requested for the full game details, showing his humor and light-hearted approach to the game.

Lindsey Harding directs her Stockton Kings team during a game against the South Bay Lakers.

Lindsey Harding directs her Stockton Kings team during a game against the South Bay Lakers.

Jack Arent/NBAE/Getty Images

Related article

Lindsey Harding is scheduled to interview with the Charlotte Hornets for the head coaching position, according to reports.

During a recent interview, Harding expressed her surprise at seeing only two free throws attempted in a basketball game, mistaking the halftime stats for the total minutes played.

The NBA implemented a new rule change for the 2021-22 season. Referees are now instructed not to award fouls for players who use "overt, abrupt or abnormal non-basketball moves" to draw fouls.

This rule change was put in place because players like James Harden, Trae Young, and Luka Dončić were consistently able to draw fouls with unconventional shooting motions that were previously allowed under the rules.

The previous record low for free throws attempted by a team in a game was one, shared by the Memphis Grizzlies and Atlanta Hawks. The lowest combined total was 11, achieved by the Indiana Pacers and Orlando Magic in 2019, according to ESPN.

"It was strange, but it appears to be a growing trend," remarked Bucks guard Damian Lillard. "Fouls seem to be less of a factor in the game nowadays."

There have been moments during games when I believed I was fouled, and other times when I was shocked that a foul wasn't called on me. I would accidentally bump into someone or touch their arm, but the referees didn't blow the whistle. It made me think, "Wow, they're really allowing us to play freely."

Antetokounmpo is helped off the court by teammates after suffering a calf injury.

Antetokounmpo is helped off the court by teammates after suffering a calf injury.

Stacy Revere/Getty Images

The other night, I fouled out with only two minutes remaining in the game, just like before. It was the second time I fouled out in our last five games. I can't remember the last time I fouled out before this. You just have to go with the flow of the game. Tonight, I barely even noticed any fouls being called.

It was a significant victory for the Bucks, who had been struggling with a four-game losing streak and had only managed to win once in their last seven games.

However, it wasn’t all good news during the game. Star player Giannis Antetokounmpo, who took the only two free throws, had to be assisted off the court due to a calf injury.

After the game, Rivers expressed that he was very worried about the injury.

“He’s Giannis,” Rivers added. “I think everyone probably feels the same way as I do right now. We’re just going to hope for the best.”

Editor's P/S:

The Boston Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks' recent game made history with an unprecedented lack of free throws attempted. This outcome highlights the impact of the NBA's new rule change, aimed at reducing non-basketball moves to draw fouls. The low foul count allowed the game to flow freely, resulting in a shorter duration and a surprising record.

While the reduced fouls may have contributed to a more entertaining game, the injury to Giannis Antetokounmpo overshadowed the positive aspects. The Bucks' star player is vital to their success, and his absence could significantly impact their performance in upcoming games. The Celtics, on the other hand, may have gained a psychological edge from this historic victory, potentially boosting their confidence as they continue their season.