Accurate shooting requires much practice, but also proper form. If you start off with bad habits, you will find it difficult to increase your shooting skills later. Focus on achieving perfect form before you attempt advanced shots, such as three-pointers. If you don't have proper form up close, you won't be accurate from three-point range. Once you hit shots consistently, work on shooting from a distance.
Hand Grip
Spread the fingertips of your dominant hand across the center of the ball. Don't allow your palm to touch the ball. At the same time, use your other hand to provide balance on the side of the ball. As you prepare to shoot, orient the ball so that the palm of your dominant hand is facing the target. Keep your eyes locked on the rim.
Arm Movement
Lift the ball above your head in a smooth motion. Line up the bent elbow of your shooting arm with the target. Avoid typical mistakes, such as altering your hand grip so that your dominant hand can add force to your shot. While it might be easier to reach distant targets using the power of both arms, your accuracy will suffer. Concentrate on keeping your hand grip as it was before you lifted the ball.
Incorporating Leg Power
As you raise the ball, bend your knees slightly. Snap the wrist of your shooting arm forward to launch the ball toward the net. Simultaneously, push up with your legs so that the force of your leg muscles adds power to the shot. Performing all these maneuvers smoothly will take practice.
Finishing Shot
Shoot the ball in a high arc to increase the chance of it dropping directly into the net. As the ball leaves your hand, flick your wrist downward to add backspin, which improves the ball's chance of bouncing favorably if it contacts the rim or backboard. After the ball leaves your hands, follow through with your shooting hand directly in line with the target. While this may seem pointless, it develops your ability to maintain proper aim during a shot.
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