During Tuesday’s matchup at Fiserv Forum, the Boston Celtics faced an unparalleled scenario in their 104-91 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks, setting a remarkable precedent in the history of the NBA. No Celtics player, from star Jayson Tatum’s extensive playtime to Svi Mykhailiuk’s shorter minutes, succeeded in drawing a foul that would lead to a free throw opportunity.
The event marked the first occasion in NBA history where a team concluded a game without any free throw attempts, a distinction the Celtics now uniquely hold.
Despite their reputation for aggressive gameplay, often resulting in free-throw opportunities, the Celtics saw none of their ten active players step to the free-throw line that evening. This absence of free-throw attempts highlights an unparalleled moment for the team.
Jayson Tatum shared his thoughts on the game’s anomaly, suggesting a playoff atmosphere might have influenced the officials’ call leniency. “It’s just another day in the NBA… It seems like a preparation for playoff basketball,” he remarked, expressing a mix of surprise and acceptance of the situation.
Additionally, the game set another NBA record for the lowest combined free throw attempts, with only two made by Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo before exiting due to injury. The minimal foul calls throughout the game, totalling 12 between both teams, further accentuated the night’s unusual nature. The officiating crew, led by Marc Davis, played a significant role in this unique occurrence, contributing to a game that will be noted for its deviation from conventional outcomes.
