The Strategy
In Game 2 of the 2026 NBA Finals, the San Antonio Spurs intentionally fouled New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson multiple times in the first quarter.
The Result
Robinson shot 3 for 6 from the free-throw line during the first quarter.
The Context
The strategy, intended to disrupt the Knicks' offense, is rooted in Robinson's well-documented struggles at the free-throw line.
- Career free-throw shooting percentage: 50.8%
- In the 2026 playoffs entering Game 2: Robinson shot 29.5% from the line (13-for-44).
- In Game 1 of the Finals: Robinson shot 0-for-1 from the line.
- Historical context: Robinson has shot 36.2% from the free-throw line in 49 career playoff games, the lowest mark in NBA history.
Historical Precedent
Similar strategies have been used historically against players like Shaquille O'Neal (career 52.7% FT), DeAndre Jordan (47.5%), Ben Simmons (59.2%), Andre Drummond (48.9%), and Wilt Chamberlain (51.1%).
The Architect
Coach Don Nelson is credited with innovating the strategy in the late 1990s while with the Dallas Mavericks.
Looking Ahead
The article notes that the Spurs are expected to continue the strategy until Robinson consistently makes free throws.