In the early days of basketball, set shots were one of the more popular types of shots to take. In today's modern game of dunks, layups and jump shots, the set shot is mainly used for shooting free throws, which is why players sometimes struggle at the charity stripe. Helping players develop a sound set shot for shooting free throws can pay off in late-game situations when the game is literally on the line.
Back-Up Drill
The back-up drill helps players slowly develop the ability to keep their feet on the floor while shooting the ball, which can feel unnatural after shooting jump shots all day. Have the player start just in front of the basket, and shoot the ball using a set shot. If he makes it, have him move back 2 feet to 3 feet and try again. Move the player back with each shot until he is finally on the free throw line. The player will gradually learn over the course of the various distances how to use his legs and upper body without leaving the ground.
Free Throw Accuracy Drill
Part of shooting free throws with the set shot is learning how to do it in late-game situations when the game could be decided by just a few points. Put two teams of five on each end of the court. Line four players along the free throw lane, with one player at the line to shoot. Set a time limit for the drill. Each player gets two set shots from the free throw line. Each shot counts as one point. After shooting, the players rotate clockwise, and the next player takes her turn shooting. Players must shoot accurately but quickly, because the team with the most points at the end of the set time is the winner.
Open and Closed Drill
Having players practice shooting set shots from the free throw line with their eyes closed can help improve their shooting percentage, says basketball coach and author Dr. Hal Wissel. Divide players into teams of two, with each team at a basket. One player shoots while the other rebounds and keeps score. Have the shooter take five free throws with his eyes open, while the rebounder gives the ball back to him after every shot and keeps score. After those five shots, have the player take five more set shots with his eyes closed. Have players rotate and repeat the drill. You can make this a competition by awarding one point for every shot made with eyes open and two for shots made with the eyes closed. Have all team members run through the drill, then have the top two or three shooters compete against each other for top honors.
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