A versatile basketball player will use a variety of shots to score. The highlight films are loaded with spectacular dunks and long three-point shots, but there are a number of shots that a good scorer will use to put points on the board. The jump shot, the bank shot and the hook shot are all important to help a player become a better shooter.
Jump Shot
This is the most common and important shot taken at all levels of basketball. When taking a jump shot, have the patience to wait until you are at the top of your leap before releasing the ball. Your shooting hand needs to be directly underneath the ball and your other hand should serve as the guide. Snap your shooting hand forward and extend your finger tips toward the rim to make sure you get off an effective shot.
Bank Shot
The bank shot allows the shooter to take advantage of the backboard to help a shot get in the basket. In order to hit the bank shot, you must calculate the angle the ball will hit the backboard and where it will rebound after hitting the board. If you have figured the correct angle, the ball will slip through the rim for a basket. The bank shot has become something of a lost art because many players will try to have the ball fly directly past the front rim and swish through the net. However, when you have a shot near the key, you will improve your chances of making the shot by using the backboard to your advantage.
Hook Shot
This is a shot that is used by many centers who take their shot from the painted area in front of the hoop. The hook shot is used because it is largely unblockable, especially when taken by a tall player. The reason for this is you use your own body to screen off a one-on-one defender and it makes it extremely difficult to reach the ball. A hook shot might require an awkward delivery, but practicing the shot is the great equalizing factor. By shooting a hook shot 10 to 20 times in practice every day, you will quickly get used to it.
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