New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson is currently shooting just 39.3 percent from the free throw line this season, with only one successful free throw made in his last seven attempts. Despite this decline, Robinson has ruled out using the underhand free throw technique, often referred to as “granny style,” even after receiving an offer to learn it from Basketball Hall of Famer Rick Barry, who famously used the method to shoot 90 percent from the line.
Robinson’s Perspective on Underhand Free Throws
When asked if he had ever tried shooting free throws underhanded, Robinson responded bluntly,
“I feel like that’s silly as hell,”
reflecting his strong disinterest in adopting the technique advocated by Barry. Robinson has played all eight of his NBA seasons with the Knicks and holds a career free throw percentage of 50.9 percent, with a recent improvement to 68.4 percent during the 2024-25 regular season that has unfortunately regressed this year.
Reasoning Behind His Free Throw Difficulties
Robinson believes his struggles stem from the lack of volume in practicing shooting, especially for outside shots or free throws.
“I don’t get shots up like that (in practice). I just do a lot of lay-ups, hook shots, stuff like that,”
he explained.
“If you don’t get shots, you don’t know how it is. You’re not comfortable with it. So it’s just like — you got to get some shots up. I do it in the summertime, and I’m straight. And I just get away from it.”
Adding further insight, Robinson recalled his rookie year, when more consistent shooting practice helped him reach about 60 percent from the free throw line.
“Like I said before, when I was getting up shots, rookie year, I was 60 percent. So if I get shots up, everything will be alright. Until then, it is what it is.”
Robinson’s Value Beyond Free Throws
While Mitchell Robinson’s free throw shooting remains a noticeable weakness, his contributions in other game aspects are substantial. He excels at rebounding—particularly in grabbing offensive boards—along with strong defensive play and high energy when coming off the bench. These qualities make him a crucial part of the Knicks’ roster, as the team currently sits third in the standings and pursues its first NBA Finals appearance since 1999 and its first championship since 1973.
For example, despite going 0-for-3 from the line in a recent win against the San Antonio Spurs, Robinson still made a significant impact in 15 minutes of play by scoring four points, securing five rebounds, grabbing a steal, and blocking a shot, contributing to the Knicks’ 114-89 victory.
Looking Forward: Knicks Aim to Continue Momentum
The Knicks are set to extend their winning streak to three games when they face the Toronto Raptors on Tuesday, relying on players like Mitchell Robinson to maintain their strong in-game presence even amid free throw challenges. How Robinson addresses his shooting practice habits and whether he adjusts his technique will be key factors in his ongoing development and the team’s postseason prospects.
