What is a clear path foul?

A clear path foul is a type of foul in basketball that occurs when a defender commits a foul on an offensive player who has clearly beaten the defensive player and has a clear path to the basket. This means that the offensive player has no defenders between them and the basket at the time of the foul.

When a clear path foul occurs, the offensive team is awarded two free throws and possession of the ball at the spot of the foul. This rule was implemented in the NBA in 2009 to prevent intentional fouls on fast breaks that deny a scoring opportunity.

In order for a clear path foul to be called, certain criteria must be met, including the location of the foul, the position of the offensive player, and the intent of the defender. The officials must determine that the foul was committed intentionally to prevent a scoring opportunity.

Clear path fouls are considered more severe than regular fouls because they directly impact the offensive player's ability to score. They are meant to discourage fouling in situations where a player has a clear path to the basket.