Bonus is a rule that prevents teams from piling up tactical fouls to slow the game. Beyond a set number of team fouls per period, each additional foul sends the opponent to the free throw line, even if it happens away from the shot.
In FIBA, the threshold is 4 team fouls per quarter. Beyond that, every foul awards 2 free throws. In the NBA, as of 2023, the cap is 4 fouls per quarter (or 2 in the final 2 minutes) and also grants 2 free throws.
Tactically, bonus radically changes decision-making. When the opponent is in the bonus, you can attack more aggressively knowing any contact sends you to the line. Conversely, when you're in the bonus, your defenders must avoid silly fouls.
Scoreboards often display "BONUS" when the state is triggered for both sides, simplifying real-time situational reading.
Real example
Team A has committed its 5th team foul of the quarter. The next one sends Team B to the free throw line.
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