Shooting is an art, as they say…
There are so many variables that determine if a shot will go in or not.
In order to become a clutch scorer and a great shooter like Reggie Miller, Ray Allen or Steph Curry…there are some basic principles that we need to follow.
These techniques are not so easy to implement because everyone has adapted to a certain way of shooting, and once you get comfortable shooting a certain way, it’s very hard change it. Therefore, it’s crucial to adapt a good shooting form from a young age and stick to principles that we know work.
This small video can shed some light on some of the key points you should focus on when shooting the basketball… among which are balance, release, legs, elbows and follow-through… and this is only the beginning, but it’s a place to start.
As you can see, the video highlights a few things about correct form and release. However, there’s one thing not discussed there that I would like to focus on, and that is shooting a jump shot.
There are certain ways you could take a jump shot.
For instance, take a look at Stephen Curry’s jumper… it’s usually not that high because he has a one-motion shot.
On the other hand, when you take a look at someone like Kobe, his jump shot is very high…and that’s because he’s usually required to shoot over defenders, therefore his shot is a two-motion shot.
In my opinion, if you wanna become a complete basketball player, you need to be more like Kobe. Notice that his release point is much higher than the average NBA player – that gives him the ability to take hard shots, and that’s one of the reasons why Kobe is the go-to-guy when the game is on the line.
More Resources
1) Breakthroughbasketball.com – One Motion Shot | Speed Up Your Release and Improve Accuracy with the “One Motion Shooting” Technique – https://www.breakthroughbasketball.com/fundamentals/one-motion-shooting.html
Which shot would you say is better, a 2 motion shot like Ray Allen’s or a one motion shot like Steph? I’m more of 2 motion shooter although I don’t pause so dramatically in the air, yet my 3pt percentage is very low. Do you think I need to try and adapt to a one motion shot?
Since you are a two motion shooter , you might have a small pause in the air. I suggest at that time try to give the ball a good arc. Three point shots need more arc than midrange jumpers.
Hey Matthew.
I am 15 years old and above my team average size & height. My coaches predict that I will be a good forward but I want to be more of a shooting guard. Do you think I should work more on my shot or should I just accept my coaches opinion and move on to working more on post game skills?
Any help would be appreciated.
Well there are forwards who are real good shooters like Kevin love,Ryan Anderson in the NBA . Try set the game up like them . Since you are fit to be a forward focus on driving in but also have a strong jumper from midrange( hook shot and jab is a must) and 3 point . Always use your instincts.
i say a 1 motion shot as it helps in unlocking your power from your hips and legs and also help in getting a perfect arc