NBA Hall of Famer urges Knicks’ Robinson to adopt underhand free-throw technique
With free-throw accuracy at 30.2 per cent in the playoffs, the legend argues that pride is the only barrier to a proven solution.
NBA Hall of Famer Rick Barry has publicly advised New York Knicks centre Mitchell Robinson to adopt an underhand free-throw technique ahead of the 2026 NBA Finals. The recommendation comes as Robinson prepares to face either the San Antonio Spurs or the Oklahoma City Thunder, following recent surgery to repair a broken pinky finger on his shooting hand.
Barry, who shot 89.3 per cent from the free-throw line during his own career using the underhand method, argues that the technique minimises reliance on the injured digit. Speaking to CBS Sports, the Hall of Famer stated that the underhand motion allows the ball to be guided primarily by the other fingers and the coordinated motion of both hands, rendering the broken pinky less critical to the shot’s mechanics.
The suggestion addresses a significant statistical decline for the Knicks’ centre. Robinson has converted only 13 of his 43 free-throw attempts during the 2026 playoffs, resulting in a 30.2 per cent success rate. This performance marks a sharp departure from his career regular-season average of 50.8 per cent and has led opponents to intentionally foul him to disrupt New York’s offensive rhythm.
Barry dismissed the notion that learning the technique would be time-consuming, suggesting Robinson could become comfortable with the new motion in just a few days of practice. However, the Hall of Famer identified psychological resistance as the primary obstacle, noting that modern players often avoid the style due to fear of mockery.
"Throw your ego in the freakin' closet," Barry said, urging Robinson to prioritise shooting accuracy over traditional aesthetics. With the Knicks four wins away from a championship, Barry emphasised that every possession matters and that the underhand approach offers a pragmatic solution to a pressing tactical problem.
