NBA New York Knicks’ Bill Cartwright ties record of 19 of 19 free throws

As an ardent follower of the NBA, you might remember the game played on 17th November 1981. It was on this unforgettable night that the New York Knicks’ center, Bill Cartwright, demonstrated his prowess by tying a record, sinking 19 of 19 free throws. This momentous occasion remains etched in the annals of NBA history, highlighting the extraordinary talent and precision emblematic of Cartwright’s career.

For anyone unaware, the minimum regulation size for an NBA basketball is around 9.44 inches in diameter. Try to visualize shooting that-sized basketball into a hoop about four times its size, from a distance of 15 feet, under the intense pressure of a live game. Now, picture doing this 19 times in a row without missing. This is no mean feat. But, it is precisely what Cartwright accomplished on that fateful November evening in ’81. This spotless streak stands as a testament to the sharpshooting skills that have made him an enduring figure in the sport.

The game was riveting from the onset. Played between the Knicks and the Dallas Mavericks, it was filled with tension, excitement, and breathtaking basketball action. Above all, the highlight of the game was undoubtedly Bill Cartwright himself. Regarded as an esteemed player in New York Knicks’ history, Cartwright was, and still is, known for his fortitude and tenacious scoring ability.

Cartwright stepped to the line 19 times, undeterred by the intense pressure of the live game. He landed each shot, showcasing the extraordinary concentration and shooting finesses he wielded. Each of his 19 successful free throws were met with roaring applause from the crowd, and the number kept rising. By the time he made his 19th and final shot, the crowd was in a euphoric state, celebrating the achievement, that tied the record for most consecutive shots made in a single game – an NBA record that has remained untouched.

Knowing the free throw shooting record is of paramount importance for severe NBA fanatics. Bill Cartwright ranks right at the top with his superlative performance. It should be noted that this record hasn’t been shattered to date, even by notorious sharpshooters of the NBA like Steph Curry or Kevin Durant. This remarkable feat rightfully establishes Cartwright as one of the best free throw shooters the sport has seen.

Furthermore, Bill Cartwright’s impressive game on November 17, 1981, had a significant impact on basketball as a whole. It wasn’t simply the record that made waves; it was the flawless execution of technique, focus, and the immense underpinning confidence. His exemplary performance also demonstrated to young, aspiring players the importance of fouling strategy and the critical role it can play in game outcomes.