Shooting a basketball is a simple act, but even professional basketball players spend years trying to perfect the technique. Proper shooting form requires specific body positioning, from your feet to your head, focusing your momentum and power toward the hoop. The best way to develop and practice your shooting form is by shooting at the free throw line. This enables you to square your body to the hoop easily and practice from a mid-range distance.
Feet and Legs
When you stop dribbling to take a shot, your feet should be set shoulder-width apart or slightly wider. Both your toes should be pointed toward the hoop while remaining parallel to one another. Your knees should be slightly bent--the knees is where most of your shooting power is derived.
Hand Positioning
Your dominant (shooting) hand should be placed behind the basketball with your fingers evenly spaced. The other hand should be placed along the side of the basketball. When you shoot, your dominant hand will project the ball toward the basket while the hand on the side will serve as a guide to keep the ball straight. Prior to shooting, the basketball will be positioned in front of your chest. The elbow on your dominant arm will be held close to your side so that when you shoot, your arm will move toward the basket in as straight a line as possible.
Shooting Motion
Start by bending the knees slightly, then extending upwards and jumping. As you jump, raise the ball above your head, keeping your eye on the basket through the motion. When the ball is above your head, extend your arm up and slightly toward the basket. Flick the wrist of your shooting arm as you are still moving upward in your jumping motion, extending your arm fully. Keep your wrist bent as the ball releases and travels toward the basketball hoop.
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