NBA: 10 strangest free throw routines in NBA history

NBA: 10 strangest free throw routines of all time

PHILADELPHIA, PA - NOVEMBER 1: Markelle Fultz #20 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on against the LA Clippers at the Wells Fargo Center on November 1, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /

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8. Gilbert Arenas

Gilbert Arenas’ ritual at the line looked like the start of a Harlem Globetrotters trick. He’d spin the ball behind his back three times before putting up a shot.

As if the behind-the-back-routine wasn’t enough, he would then take a few dribbles and pat his leg before getting off a shot. Seeing how much time the whole ordeal would take, I’m surprised that he was never whistled for a delay of game.

Unfortunately for Arenas, his routine was no match for LeBron James’ head games during Game 6 of the 2006 Eastern Conference Playoffs. The Wizards were down one point to the Cleveland Cavaliers with just 15 seconds left in overtime. Arenas clanked the first free throw off the front of the rim.

Before starting his patented pre-shot exercise, LeBron patted Arenas on the chest and let him know that he’d blown the game. LeBron ended up looking like a genius, as Arenas missed the second shot as well, and the Cavs ended up winning the game and the series.

I’m sure Arenas wishes that he could reverse those behind-the-back twirls and have another shot at those two free throws. His NBA career may have had a different ending if he could.