Shooting and scoring is not the only aspect to playing winning basketball, but it is clearly one of the most important. Coaches want to emphasize defense and team play, but if you don't score consistently when you have the ball, it will be difficult to compete and win. Developing a good shot means focusing on specific areas including lift, grip and release.
Features
When you work on becoming a good shooter, you need to focus on a number of areas to develop consistency. You need to get good lift when you jump. You need to have the proper stance and the correct grip on the ball. You need a precise aim and a consistent release. You also must follow through by keeping your fingers pointed at the front rim while keeping your wrist loose.
Considerations
Players need to work on the type of shots they will be taking in games. For example, a 6-foot-11 power forward is not going to be taking long three-point shots in a game. He's going to be taking 8- to 12-foot jumpers and layups. Those are the shots that he should be practicing. Conversely, a shooting guard may take a high percentage of his shots from outside the perimeter. As a result, he needs to practice those shots as well as the open shots he gets from inside the three-point arc.
Misconceptions
Some basketball players believe good shooting skills are a function of natural athletic ability. That is not the case. Shooting the basketball is a learned skill. The best shooters are the ones who not only spend a lot of time practicing but also study the great shooters and are always looking for techniques to improve their form. Hall of Famer Larry Bird developed his quick release by practicing for hours at a time. Fellow Hall of Famer Magic Johnson was a dominant ball handler when he first came into the NBA but only an average shooter until he took it upon himself to practice his form and release while shooting.
Around the World Drill
This drill will help any shooter get used to firing the ball from any angle. Start off at the right baseline about 18 feet away from the basket. This is 2 or 3 feet inside the three-point arc. Take five jump shots. Move to the right elbow, which is about 4 feet outside the lane as the foul line extends. Take five more shots. Then go to the top of the key, the left elbow and the left baseline. Take five shots from each spot. Then do the same, going in the reverse direction. Do this prior to practice every day, record how you do, and track your progress.
Catch and Shoot Drill
This drill requires a partner who will pass you the ball. Excellent shooters have a quick release. They can catch the ball and bring it to a shooting position in a fraction of a second. Set up a series of cones on the floor. As your teammate dribbles down the court, run around the first cone and take a pass from the point guard. Stepping around the cone is like getting a pick from your teammate. Shoot the ball. Do this going around each cone. This drill teaches you how to get a quick release.
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