Maybe there should be a new efficiency statistic related to free throws - the ratio of foul shots a player takes compared to those he spawns with his own fouls.
Calculating the cost of each personal is a bit complicated, of course. Not every personal sends an opponent to the line, and not every free throw attempted is made.
What's more, a lack of fouls committed may as easily reflect unenthusiastic defense as strong discipline and defensive control.
Still, a simple comparison is instructive.
Looking at those 2012 players who got to the line most often for each ACC team, a ratio of better than 2.5 free throws tried to one foul committed is impressive.
Understandably guards appear more likely than big men to enjoy a significant advantage in attempts versus attempts caused; perimeter denizens are less likely to incur fouls as a result of fighting for rebounds or contesting shots.
Which makes the ratio enjoyed last year by Virginia post player Mike Scott (3.1:1) all the more remarkable.
FAIRLY FOUL |
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Player, School | FTA | PF | Ratio |
Mike Scott, V | 172 | 56 | 3.07 |
Terrell Stoglin, M | 202 | 66 | 3.06 |
C.J. Harris, WF | 173 | 71 | 2.44 |
Austin Rivers, D | 184 | 76 | 2.42 |
Erick Green, VT | 122 | 52 | 2.35 |
Ryan Anderson, BC | 110 | 47 | 2.34 |
Tyler Zeller, NC | 224 | 102 | 2.20 |
C.J. Leslie, NCS | 188 | 87 | 2.16 |
Durand Scott, Mia | 122 | 67 | 1.82 |
Bernard James, FSU | 116 | 68 | 1.71 |
Mfon Udofia, GT | 101 | 76 | 1.33 |
Devin Booker, C | 106 | 81 | 1.31 |
Other ACC Leaders in FT Attempted: | |||
Harrison Barnes, NC | 195 | 68 | 2.87 |
Mason Plumlee, D | 176 | 86 | 2.05 |