How many team fouls must a team commit before reaching the bonus in NCAA basketball?

In NCAA basketball, a team enters the bonus situation after committing a certain number of team fouls during a half. When a team reaches seven team fouls, any subsequent fouls committed by that team result in the opposing team being awarded free throws. This rule is designed to encourage fair play and reduce excessive fouling. The first six fouls do not trigger the bonus; it is only after the seventh foul that free throws are awarded for each additional foul.

Understanding this rule is essential for players and coaches as it influences game strategy and can impact the flow of the game significantly, particularly in close contests. Being in the bonus means that the opposing team can score points more easily, so teams often adjust their defensive strategies once they realize they have reached or are close to reaching the bonus.