CHARITY STRIPE Meaning and
Definition
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The term "charity stripe" refers to a phrase that primarily exists in basketball jargon and describes the free-throw line. In basketball, when a player draws a foul from an opposing player, they are awarded free throw opportunities from the charity stripe.
The charity stripe is a line located 15 feet away from the backboard and extends across the width of the basketball court. It is parallel to the endline, centrally dividing the area behind it into equal halves. The term "charity" is used as a metaphorical description of the free-throw line because it implies that these shots are relatively easy opportunities to score points, much like giving free points or charity to the team.
When a player steps up to the charity stripe, they have the opportunity to score uncontested points for their team. These free-throw attempts provide an advantage as the opposing team cannot directly interfere with the shot. Typically, a player takes two free throws for a normal foul called on their shot, with a third opportunity awarded if the shot is successful.
Since free throws are earned by drawing fouls, they are viewed as a reward or a chance to gain points without opposition. Therefore, the term "charity stripe" emphasizes the idea that these shots provide an advantageous scoring opportunity to the team receiving them.
Etymology of CHARITY STRIPE
The term "charity stripe" is predominantly used in basketball and refers to the free-throw line. The word "charity" in this context is used to convey the idea that shooting free throws is an opportunity to earn points without any defensive interference, thereby allowing players to score "charitable" or uncontested points.
The word "stripe" comes from the markings on the basketball court floor that indicate the free-throw line. The line is typically painted in a different color or pattern, appearing as a distinct stripe on the court. Therefore, "charity stripe" is a figurative expression combining the notion of charity (generosity, free points) with the physical representation of the free-throw line (stripe) in basketball.
