Picking up a basketball and launching it toward the rim is the easiest way to shoot, but it is not an effective method. You need to have the proper lift off the floor, which is the first step in becoming a dangerous shooter. Once in the air, there are other components that come into play. If you can master the mechanics, your offensive game will soar.
Take Off
Whether it's the jump shot, set shot or a layup, it all starts with the lower body. A shooter has to bend his ankles and knees to get as strong of a push off the floor as possible. Going straight up in the air is critical for maintaining the balance needed to take a high percentage shot. Maximum elevation off the floor provides power for the shot and ensures accuracy.
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Body Language
Before the shot is launched, there are two components that help determine if the shot has a chance to be successful. The first is making sure your body and legs are as straight as possible and your shoulders are squared and facing the basket. Balance and proper body position while airborne are crucial to getting of the most accurate shot possible while avoiding the block. Second, your eyes always must be locked on the rim and not the defender. A strong shooter focuses on the backboard box just above the hoop. Good court vision also allows the shooter to make a pass in the air if the shot is in danger of being blocked.
Helping Hand
Proper hand placement often determines whether the shot is made. The shooting hand always should be placed under the basketball, with the non-shooting hand providing support on the side. Just before the ball is released, the non-shooting hand is removed. Having the fingers spread wide on the shooting hand provides a better feel on the basketball and that helps make the shot more accurate.
Wrist Action
With the shooting hand raised and shooting arm held straight, it's all up to the wrist to complete the shot. At the peak of the jump, the wrist is flicked and the basketball heads toward the hoop. The legs are providing most of the power, and the wrist provides the touch. Once the shooting hand is cocked all the way back and the non-shooting hand is released, the wrist flicks the ball toward the basket. Practice and experience helps the shooter determine the proper wrist action. If the wrist release is too strong, the basketball is likely to bang off the rim or backboard. If the release is too soft, the shot is likely to fall short.
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