HOW TO SHOOT A BASKETBALL LIKE A PRO: A STEP BY STEP GUIDE

Grip

Learning how to get correct hand placement

One of the most critical aspects of shooting a basketball is your grip. You want to hold the ball with your fingertips to have better control over the shot. Keep your shooting hand under the ball, and use your other hand to balance it. The standard grip is known as the two-hand set shot.

Arm Placement

When shooting a basketball, your non-shooting arm should be straight out, while your shooting arm should form a 90-degree angle. This will give you the necessary power and accuracy to make the shot. Remembering where your elbow starts and where it finishes will determine the arc of your shot.

Body Position

It’s crucial to have good body positioning when shooting a basketball. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, keep your knees bent, and your body balanced. Your shooting elbow should be directly under the ball, and your body should be facing the basket.

How to Shoot a Basketball: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you understand the basics, it’s time to put everything into action. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to shoot a basketball:

Start with the ball in your shooting hand and use your other hand to help balance and guide the ball.

Keep your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees bent.

Line up your shooting arm with the basket and form a 90-degree angle with your forearm and upper arm.

Keep your eyes on the basket and release the ball in a smooth, fluid motion.

Follow through by pointing your index and middle fingers toward the basket.

Drills and Tips to Improve Your Shooting

Perfect practice makes perfect, and this couldn’t be truer when it comes to shooting a basketball. Here are some drills and tips to help you improve your shooting:

Shooting Practice

Set up cones or markers around the perimeter of the court and practice shooting from various spots. Start with close-range shots and work your way out to longer distances. The Driveway Drills course will be a great start.

Focus on Your Follow-Through

Your follow-through is just as important as your shot release, so make sure to practice it. After releasing the ball, point your index and middle fingers toward the basket, and hold the follow-through until the ball passes through the net.

Use a Shooting Aid

A shooting aid, such as a shooting sleeve or wristband, can help improve your grip and follow-through. They can also help reduce pain and injury to your shooting hand while keeping your muscles slightly compressed for quicker execution of skills.

Let’s get started!

If you've got questions, send an email to Matt Mann at skillswithinhoops@gmail.com