Jarrett Allen just became the first player in NBA history to finish a season shooting 70%+ from the field and 70%+ from the free throw line

Jarrett Allen just became the first player in NBA history to finish a season shooting 70%+ from the field and 70%+ from the free throw line

 

That’s not just efficient, that’s unheard of.

 

Bigs usually get one or the other. You either dominate around the rim or you hold your own at the line.

 

Jarrett Allen did both, quietly and consistently.

 

This has been a testament to Allen’s growth, work ethic, and feel for the game

 

 

He’s become one of the most dependable two-way anchors in the league, and the numbers back it up.

 

**Jarrett Allen: Redefining Efficiency in the NBA**

In the modern NBA, efficiency is paramount. Players are constantly striving to maximize their impact on the court while minimizing mistakes. Among the league’s elite, few have embodied this principle as consistently as Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen. In the 2024-25 season, Allen achieved a remarkable feat: he became the first player in NBA history to finish a season shooting over 70% from the field and over 70% from the free-throw line.

### **A Statistical Marvel**

Over the course of the season, Allen posted a field goal percentage of 80.6%, leading the league. This exceptional shooting efficiency is a testament to his ability to finish around the rim with precision and consistency. Furthermore, his free-throw percentage stood at 70.8%, a significant improvement over previous seasons and a rare achievement for a player of his position. ([Jarrett Allen Field Goal Percentage | StatMuse]

These statistics are not just numbers; they reflect Allen’s growth as a player. Historically, centers have struggled with free-throw shooting, often focusing solely on their scoring ability in the paint. Allen, however, has demonstrated a commitment to improving all facets of his game, making him one of the most well-rounded big men in the league today.

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### **The Anatomy of Efficiency**

Allen’s offensive game is built on high-percentage shots. The vast majority of his attempts come within five feet of the basket, where he capitalizes on his size, agility, and timing to convert opportunities into points. This approach not only boosts his shooting percentages but also minimizes the risk of turnovers and missed opportunities.

His free-throw shooting improvement is particularly noteworthy. While many centers focus on their post moves and rim protection, Allen has dedicated time to refining his free-throw technique. This commitment has paid off, as evidenced by his career-high free-throw percentage this season.

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### **Defensive Dominance**

Beyond his offensive prowess, Allen has solidified his reputation as a defensive anchor for the Cavaliers. His shot-blocking ability, rebounding tenacity, and rim protection make him a formidable presence in the paint. In a game against the Brooklyn Nets, Allen recorded 16 points and 20 rebounds in just 25 minutes, setting an NBA record for the most rebounds in a game with such limited playing time. ([Cavs’ Jarrett Allen makes NBA history with monster night on the glass]

This performance underscores Allen’s impact on both ends of the floor. His defensive efforts create opportunities for his teammates and set the tone for the Cavaliers’ overall defensive strategy.

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### **Leadership and Consistency**

Allen’s contributions extend beyond statistics. His leadership on and off the court has been instrumental in the Cavaliers’ success. By consistently setting a high standard of performance, he has become a role model for his teammates, particularly the younger players. His work ethic and dedication to improvement serve as a blueprint for others aiming to elevate their games.

Throughout the season, Allen’s consistency has been a hallmark. Whether it’s securing crucial rebounds, altering shots at the rim, or finishing efficiently on offense, he has maintained a level of play that has been integral to the Cavaliers’ achievements.

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### **The Future of Jarrett Allen**

As the NBA continues to evolve, players like Jarrett Allen represent the future of the game. His blend of size, skill, and intelligence allows him to excel in multiple facets of play. With his continued development, Allen has the potential to become one of the most dominant centers in the league’s history.

The 2024-25 season has been a defining year for Allen, but it is likely just the beginning of what promises to be a storied career. As he continues to refine his game and lead the Cavaliers, fans can look forward to witnessing the evolution of one of the NBA’s most efficient and impactful players.

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In conclusion, Jarrett Allen’s historic achievement of shooting over 70% from both the field and the free-throw line is a testament to his dedication, skill, and understanding of the game. His performance this season has not only set a new standard for efficiency but has also redefined what it means to be a modern center in the NBA.

 

Jarrett Allen has indeed made history by becoming the first player in NBA history to finish a season shooting 70%+ from the field and 70%+ from the free throw line. This impressive achievement showcases his exceptional efficiency and consistency on the court.

Key Stats and Accolades
– *NBA Record:* 70.6% field goal percentage (highest in the league this season) and 71.8% free throw percentage in the 2024-25 season
– *Franchise Record:* Highest field goal percentage in a single season in Cleveland Cavaliers history
– *All-Star Recognition:* Allen was named to his first NBA All-Star Game in 2022
– *Consistent Performance:* Played all 82 regular-season games this season, averaging 13.5 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game

What Makes Jarrett Allen’s Achievement Special
– *Rare Combination:* Few players excel in both field goal percentage and free throw shooting, making Allen’s achievement particularly notable
– *Dominant Force:* Allen’s ability to dominate around the rim and hold his own at the line makes him a versatile threat on the court
– *Quiet Leadership:* Despite not always seeking the spotlight, Allen’s consistent play and work ethic have earned him recognition as a dependable two-way anchor for the Cavaliers

Impact on the Cleveland Cavaliers
– *Defensive Anchor:* Allen’s presence in the paint provides a strong defensive presence, allowing the Cavaliers to anchor their defense
– *Rebounding:* Allen’s rebounding prowess (9.7 rebounds per game this season) helps the Cavaliers control the boards and limit opponents’ second-chance opportunities
– *Team Success:* The Cavaliers’ strong regular season performance is a testament to Allen’s contributions, among others, and they’ve made it to the playoffs with a solid team dynamic ¹ ²

 

**Jarrett Allen: A Historic Season of Unprecedented Efficiency**

In the 2024–25 NBA season, Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen achieved a remarkable feat: he became the first player in NBA history to finish a season shooting over 70% from the field and over 70% from the free-throw line. This achievement is not just a statistical anomaly; it signifies a profound transformation in Allen’s game and underscores his evolution into one of the league’s most reliable two-way centers.

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### The Numbers Behind the Feat

Over the course of the 2024–25 regular season, Allen played 82 games, averaging 29 minutes per game. He posted impressive statistics:

– **Field Goal Percentage**: 70.3% (3rd in the league)
– **Free Throw Percentage**: 73.0%
– **Points per Game**: 13.8
– **Rebounds per Game**: 10.0
– **Blocks per Game**: 0.9
– **Assists per Game**: 1.9 ([Jarrett Allen 2024-25 Stats per Game – NBA – ESPN]

These numbers reflect a player who not only dominates in the paint but also contributes consistently across various facets of the game. His ability to maintain such high efficiency in both field goals and free throws is unprecedented for a player of his position and playing style.

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### The Evolution of Jarrett Allen

When Allen entered the NBA in 2017, he was known primarily for his shot-blocking prowess and rim protection. While these skills were valuable, they also pigeonholed him into a traditional center role, often limiting his offensive responsibilities. Over the years, Allen has worked diligently to expand his game, focusing on improving his scoring efficiency and free-throw shooting.

His commitment to development is evident in his performance. In the 2024–25 season, Allen showcased a refined offensive game, utilizing a combination of soft touch around the rim and improved free-throw shooting to become a more versatile scoring threat. This evolution has made him an indispensable part of the Cavaliers’ lineup.

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### The Significance of the Achievement

Historically, centers have faced challenges in both shooting efficiently from the field and converting free throws. Many big men excel in one area but struggle in the other. For instance, players like DeAndre Jordan and Dwight Howard have been known for their dominance around the rim but have often been liabilities at the free-throw line. Allen’s ability to excel in both areas sets him apart and highlights his unique skill set.

This achievement also reflects a broader trend in the NBA, where the traditional roles of players are evolving. Centers are no longer just rim protectors; they are expected to contribute offensively, stretch the floor, and be proficient in various aspects of the game. Allen’s success in meeting these expectations underscores the changing dynamics of the center position.

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### The Cavaliers’ Success and Allen’s Role

The Cleveland Cavaliers’ success in the 2024–25 season can be attributed, in part, to Allen’s exceptional play. His presence in the paint both offensively and defensively has provided the team with a solid foundation. Allen’s ability to finish efficiently around the rim and contribute at the free-throw line has been crucial in close games, allowing the Cavaliers to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

Moreover, Allen’s improved free-throw shooting has made him a more reliable option in late-game situations, where teams often employ “hack-a-Shaq” strategies to exploit poor free-throw shooters. Allen’s proficiency at the line has diminished the effectiveness of such tactics against him.

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### Looking Ahead

As Allen continues to develop his game, the expectations for his performance will only increase. His ability to maintain high efficiency while expanding his offensive repertoire will be crucial for the Cavaliers’ aspirations in future seasons. If Allen can continue to build on his success, he has the potential to become one of the premier centers in the NBA, known not only for his defensive prowess but also for his offensive versatility and efficiency.

In conclusion, Jarrett Allen’s historic achievement in the 2024–25 season is a testament to his dedication, work ethic, and basketball IQ. By becoming the first player in NBA history to shoot over 70% from the field and over 70% from the free-throw line in a season, Allen has redefined the expectations for centers in the modern NBA. His performance serves as an inspiration to players at all positions, demonstrating that with hard work and commitment, one can break barriers and set new standards of excellence.

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