The ability to shoot the basketball is a fundamental skill that every basketball player needs to learn. There is proper form for a basketball shot, but everybody has a slightly different jump shot based on their height, training and what feels comfortable. Even professional basketball players practice shooting hundreds of shots a day, as a main component of shooting is muscle memory, making it possible for just about anyone to learn to shoot a basketball. The more you practice shooting, the better shooter you will become.
Base
Whether you are catching the ball coming off a screen, shooting a pull-up jumper or shooting a free throw, you should start with the same base of your shot. Keep your feet about shoulder width apart and your knees slightly bent, with your right foot slightly in front of your left, for a right-handed shooter, and your feet pointed at the hoop. Spread the fingers of your dominant hand and hold the ball with your fingertips at shoulder level on the dominant side of your body. Your weak hand should be on the side of the ball, using your fingertips to help stabilize and guide the ball.
"The Elevator"
The shot begins with a motion that many coaches refer to as "the elevator," in which different parts of your body move upwards at the same time in one fluid motion. As you lift off the ground, your knees should straighten and you should bring the ball above your head level, but not right above your head. You want to have a straight line running down the dominant side of your body going from ball to wrist to elbow to hips to knees to feet. Make sure to keep your elbow in, as flailing elbows can easily throw off the direction of your shot.
Release
When you reach the top of your jump, flick your wrist to send the ball toward the hoop. You will want to have your fingertips on the seam of the ball before you release to help get a good amount of backspin on the shot, which will help you get a favorable bounce on the rim. Keep your hands high with your off-hand still used only as a guide; the shot should be almost completely one handed.
Follow Through
After you release the ball, hold your shooting hand in the position you released the ball to make sure you get the proper backspin and so that you can critique your form if needed. If you are shooting during a live game, be sure not to hold your follow through too long and follow your shot for a potential offensive rebound.
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