Like most sports that rely heavily on fundamentals and practice, basketball is no different. Attracting loads of players, the sport is internationally recognized as one of the most popular in the world as well as one of the most competitive. For new players, learning the basic fundamentals of the game is a crucial step in their progression and development.
Arms
In your dominant hand, ensure that the basketball is resting mainly on your finger pads, thus leaving a small opening between your palm and the ball. The ball should not be only resting on the tips of your fingers; this will decrease control and accuracy with your shot.
Keep your forearm and elbow as perpendicular to the basketball hoop as possible. Keeping a straight, vertical shooting arm allows you to retain great control in your shot. The off hand is used to balance and guide the ball through the shot. It can be placed in a comfortable position on the side of the ball.
With your off hand and shooting hand separated enough, you will have a clear sight to the goal. Sometimes you may need to move your shooting arm a couple of inches to ensure that both eyes have a clear path to the basket.
Torso and Shoulders
Square your shoulders and torso to the hoop. By keeping your body square to the hoop, you have successfully aligned yourself in the best possible position for the shot.
Legs
Keep your feet separated at shoulder-width apart with your dominant foot slightly ahead of the other. Point your toes directly toward the basket and keep your knees slightly bent.
Having strong legs can help with power and endurance throughout the basketball game.
Release
Whether shooting jump shots or set shots, release the ball while it is on the way up. If the ball were to be released on the way down, the chances of the shot coming up short and hitting the front of the rim would increase. According to the "Guide to Coaching Basketball," the shooter must remember that perfect timing results in a smooth, continuous thrust from the floor up, developing a peak force at the fingertips, the instant before--and sustained through--fingertip release.
Follow Through
Toward the end of the shot, after the ball has been released, slowly and smoothly bring your arms down. This steady motion is the follow through.
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