Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the world, in large part because it is easy to learn and hard to master. It can take just a few minutes to learn the basics of shooting a basketball, but improving your jump shot can be a lifelong task. Even professional basketball players often spend hours a day working at their jump shot either on their own or with a shooting coach. The key to shooting lies in your form.
Aim With Your Toes
Your body--and the ball--will want to follow your toes when you shoot a basketball. Many coaches use the term "squaring up" when coaching athletes to express the idea that your toes should be pointed toward the basket when you shoot. If your toes are directed toward the hoop, so will the rest of your body.
Shoot From the Knees
Young athletes frequently try to power their shot to the hoop with their arms. However, much of the force that sends the ball toward the basket stems from your legs. Bending your knees and starting your shot from this location also sends the ball up into the air, giving your shot added arc, which is essential to good shooting.
Followthrough
After the shot is released, keep your extended shooting arm in the air with your wrist flicked forward. You're not helping your shot any once it's out of your hands, but holding your form for a moment will physically enforce the notion that you need a proper followthrough. As you develop more consistency as a shooter, you can afford to pull back your arm sooner. A fine example of perfect form is Michael Jordan's last shot with the Chicago Bulls in 1998. After Jordan shot from the foul line, he held his shooting form until the ball dropped through the hoop. Jordan's shot won the 1998 NBA Finals for the Bulls.
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