In last night's matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers, Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert had a moment he'd probably like to forget. Gobert, known for his defensive prowess and rebounding skills, found himself in an unusual spotlight after missing not one, but two free throws that didn't even touch the rim.
The first airball came early in the first quarter, with the Trail Blazers holding a 9-4 lead. After grabbing an offensive rebound, Gobert was fouled by Donovan Clingan. His initial free throw attempt was on target but fell short, though he did manage to sink the second.
Fast forward to the third quarter, with the Blazers narrowly leading 81-80. Gobert was fouled again, this time by Deni Avdija. Unfortunately, his first attempt once more failed to reach the rim, but he redeemed himself by making the second shot.
Despite these blunders at the line, Gobert's overall performance was solid, contributing 18 points and pulling down 15 rebounds. However, the Timberwolves couldn't quite overcome the Blazers, ultimately falling 108-104.
While shooting airballs from the free throw line is far from ideal-especially for a player earning $35 million this season-it's not entirely unprecedented. Fans might recall Andre Drummond's infamous back-to-back airballs, proving that even the best can have off moments.
Playing at home likely softened the blow for Gobert, sparing him from the harsher reactions he might have faced elsewhere. But in the grand scheme, these misses are just a blip in the long NBA season, and Gobert's contributions on the court continue to be invaluable for the Timberwolves.