For basketball enthusiasts, a perfect jumpshot can be a beautiful thing. But little variations in the way a player faces the basket and the ways he holds and releases the ball can make a huge difference in the the trajectory, power and accuracy of his shots. By examining your shooting mechanics and trying a few possible fixes, you may find your shooting percentage improves quickly.
Shoot Near the Top of Your Jump
When you shoot a jumpshot, you may find that some of your shots are too low or are blocked. Often that occurs if you're releasing the ball too low when you jump. From now on, shoot when you're close to the top of your jump, because you'll still have the boost from your legs to help give you distance and you'll have height to avoid some blockers.
Square Up to the Basket
To give yourself the best chance at making your shot, be sure you're facing the basket squarely with your feet lined up perpendicular to the hoop. If you're right-handed, your right foot should be slightly ahead when you jump to shoot. Of course, if you're shooting a hook shot you'll be facing at a roughly 90-degree angle away from the basket with the hand opposite your shooting hand lined up perpendicular with the basket.
Keep the Ball in Front of You
Many poor and inconsistent shooters have a similar problem in their mechanics. They bring the ball up over their heads to shoot instead keeping the ball in front of their bodies. To determine if you do this, go through the motion of your shot, but when you're at your release point, stop and bring the ball straight down. If it hits your head, you need to adjust and release the ball in front of your head. This not only gives you more control, but it should help avoid a flat shot, because your hand will be pushing up and through the ball, creating a nice arc.
Drop Your Hand in the Basket
One way to help keep your shot on target is to picture yourself dropping your shooting hand right into the basket upon releasing the ball. Practice by holding your hand in that position after shooting and you'll soon find your accuracy improves.
The Shooting Hand Thumb
If you find yourself using the tip of your thumb to hold or steady the ball when you shoot, try to use the side of your thumb instead. It could help you improve your accuracy by giving you a wider grip with which to launch your shots. It will also help keep you from straining to hold proper form. The best shooters are those who feel relaxed and comfortable with their mechanics.
Member Comments