Puryear Misses Both Foul Shots in Bulls Win

The South Florida junior's unusual shooting motion on a free throw drew attention on social media after the 80-54 win over Furman.

Updated on Nov. 3, 2026 in Basketball

Puryear Misses Both Foul Shots in Bulls Win

South Florida junior center Kendall Puryear missed both of her foul shots in the Bulls' 80-54 win over Furman. Her unusual motion, in which she cocked her right arm and threw the ball toward the basket, went viral on social media after the game.

Why it matters

The moment drew wide attention to an unconventional free-throw technique at a time when the Bulls are building their women's basketball program. Puryear, who has a career free-throw percentage of 57%, has been a consistent contributor on both ends of the floor.

Puryear posted 12 points, nine rebounds and three steals in 28 minutes against Furman, while shooting 0-for-2 from the foul line. Her career free-throw percentage stands at 57%, and she averaged 6.6 points and 3.2 rebounds during her 2025-26 season at Purdue.

The players

Kendall Puryear

Puryear is a junior center for the South Florida Bulls who previously played for Purdue and was a McDonald's All-American Game nominee.

The details

With 3:54 left in the first half, Puryear went to the line and jolted upward as if to shoot normally before cocking her right arm and throwing the ball toward the basket. Both attempts missed as the Bulls cruised to an 80-54 victory over Furman.

November 2, 2026: South Florida defeats Furman 80-54, and Puryear misses both foul shots.

Season Trajectory

Puryear's unconventional free-throw motion departs from the set-shot form taught across college women's basketball, making it a notable exception to standard practice. The moment adds a viral storyline to a South Florida team that is still establishing its place in the conference this season.

Puryear's two missed free throws cost the Bulls no meaningful points in a 26-point win, but her 57% career mark from the line is a number to watch as South Florida's conference schedule tightens. Fantasy and box-score followers should note that her 12-point, nine-rebound, three-steal line came in just 28 minutes.

The takeaway

Puryear's free-throw struggles and unusual technique show how a single possession can draw attention well beyond the box score. Readers following the Bulls can track whether her shooting form changes as the season progresses.