Shooting the basketball is not a matter of great speed, strength or power. It is a learned skill that depends on intelligence, coordination and manual dexterity as much as it does overall athletic ability. Footwork, concentration and confidence are major factors when it comes to shooting and so is a smooth and even lift that will allow the shooter to get above the defense before letting the ball go.
Lift
The good shooter benefits from being able to jump explosively. When the shooter gets the ball and set his feet properly to leap, he can get over the defender if he jumps quickly and has excellent power in his jump. To jump properly, the shooter should set his left foot about six inches in front of his right foot and bend his knees slightly before going up. The jump must be controlled because the shooter needs control as he prepares to release his shot.
Hand Positon
The position of your hands is the most important element in shooting the basketball. If you are right-handed, your left hand should be on the side of the ball and your right hand will be directly underneath it. While spreading your fingers out, balance the ball on your fingertips; don't let it sit on the palm of your hand. Your index finger should be directly in the middle of the ball and your right hand should be relaxed.
Vision
Focus directly on the basket as you prepare to shoot. You should not look at anything else once you have decided to shoot. You should be focusing on a spot just over the front rim. If you are shooting at a 45-degree angle, you should shoot a bank shot and focus on the backboard as you prepare to shoot.
Release
The release comes from the movement of your wrist. When you are ready to shoot the ball, you should be at the apex of your leap, the ball balanced on your fingertips and your vision unobstructed. Direct your arm, fingers and wrist on a line straight toward the basket. Release the ball off your index finger and snap your wrist as you let go of the ball to impart backspin.
Follow-Through
The best shooters know they must follow through once they release the ball. Your right arm and index finger should be pointed straight at the basket once you let go of the ball. Don't take your eye off the rim until the ball is well on its way. Hold your form until the ball reaches the basket. This is what a good shooter does and it will increase your confidence.
Expert Insight
Relax when you shoot to have the best chance of putting the ball in the basket. Former University of Nevada-Las Vegas and Fresno State University basketball coach Jerry Tarkanian says the player must eliminate tension from the shooting process. "A relaxed basketball shooting style is the result of mastering the mechanics of shooting," Tarkanian said. "No matter how hard a player works for his shot, he should be relaxed enough in his release to shoot softly, applying as much finesse as necessary to make the shot."
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