Basketball Hall of Famer has recommended that Mitchell Robinson consider switching to an underhanded free throw technique to address his poor shooting from the line. Robinson has frequently been sent to the free throw line due to intentional fouling but has failed to capitalize, making just 28.9% of his attempts this postseason. His struggles are costing the New York Knicks valuable offensive possessions.
Barry, known for his own success with the underhand method — shooting 89% over his career and leading the league in free throw percentage seven times — criticized players who continue to shoot poorly despite the opportunity to improve. “It’s ridiculous,” Barry told The New York Post. “Free throws are the easiest part of the game, and no one’s even guarding you. Robinson is a perfect candidate for the underhanded style. He needs to make a change. You just can’t be shooting 30 to 40 percent.”
Robinson’s current form lacks arc and relies on a flat, line-drive trajectory, reducing his chances of making the shot. Adopting Barry’s technique could introduce more arc and improve his accuracy. While switching styles doesn’t guarantee Barry-level success, the Knicks center may benefit from a change as teams continue exploiting his weakness. The pressure is growing for Robinson to improve, and until he does, his free throw issues will remain a liability for New York.