College basketball programs use creative fan antics to distract free throw shooters

Fans in college basketball increasingly use elaborate displays to distract opposing players during free throw attempts. Arizona State gained notoriety for its Curtain of Distraction at Wells Fargo Arena, which features unpredictable appearances by various characters and celebrities to break a shooter's concentration. While some programs rely on unique visual gimmicks, other environments like Cameron Indoor Stadium have historically utilized different methods to influence game outcomes. The effectiveness of these tactics remains a subject of discussion within the sport. While such fan behavior is common in the United States, it reportedly meets resistance in European basketball circles. These antics continue to be viewed as a component of the home-court advantage, providing a carnival atmosphere that challenges visiting players at the charity stripe.

• 9:00 AMYahoo Sports — YouTube Gold: Great Free Throw Distractions