How does the "last two minutes" rule impact fouls in NCAA basketball?

The "last two minutes" rule in NCAA basketball indeed has a significant impact on the awarding of free throws. During the final two minutes of a game, the way fouls are managed changes to ensure a fair and competitive ending. Specifically, any team that is in the bonus – having reached the limit of team fouls – will automatically receive free throws when fouled.

This creates a scenario where more free throws are likely to be awarded as teams are more aggressive in their attempts to stop the clock and manage their deficit or protect a lead. The emphasis on maintaining the integrity of the game during these crucial moments means that referees are more vigilant about calling fouls, which can lead to an increase in the subsequent free throw opportunities. Thus, teams find themselves with more chances to score from the free-throw line during the last two minutes of tight games, reinforcing why this choice is accurate.

The other options do not correctly depict the rule's purpose or its effects. For example, implying that fouls are ignored or that there is no effect on fouls during this time fails to recognize the heightened scrutiny given to fouls at this critical juncture, while the suggestion that teams are given fewer free throws contradicts the nature of the bonus situation