Basketball is a super fun game, but if you want to be really good at it, one of the most important things to learn is how to shoot the basketball well. Whether you’re just starting or you’ve been playing for a while, or simply want to improve your shooting form, this article can help you score more points and help your team win games! But how do you become a great shooter?
In this guide, we’re going to teach you everything you need to know about becoming a better basketball shooter and some basketball shooting techniques, from the basics of how to hold the ball to special drills that will make you more accurate. Don’t worry—we’re going to keep it simple, fun, and easy to understand, so you can start practicing right away!
Part 1: The Basics of Good Shooting
Before we talk about drills and tips, it’s important to understand the basic things that help you become a good shooter. These are things you can practice every day to build the right habits for success!
1. Keep Your Eyes on the Target
A big mistake a lot of kids make is looking at the ball when they shoot. But guess what? Great shooters focus on the target—not the ball. The target is usually the middle of the hoop. This is where you want the ball to go!
Tip: Find the target as soon as you get the ball and keep your eyes locked on it. This helps you aim better. I’ll never forget when my older cousin taught me this trick. It totally changed the amount of shots I made in each game.
2. Get in the Right Stance
Your stance is how you stand when you’re about to shoot. Good shooters have balanced feet. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart (so they’re about the same distance as your shoulders). Bend your knees just a little bit, so you’re ready to jump if you need to.
If you’re not sure where to place your feet, try this:
- For a more open stance, put your shooting foot (the one you write with, if you’re right-handed, it’s your right foot) a little forward and your other foot behind it.
- For a square stance, face both feet toward the hoop, with both knees bent.
3. Hold the Ball Correctly
When you hold the basketball, make sure your fingers are spread apart so the ball rests lightly on your finger pads. You should have a tiny bit of space between your palm and the ball, which helps the ball leave your hands smoothly.
Tip: Don’t grip the ball too tightly, but also don’t let it slip! The key is having a balanced grip. When you’re bored at home simply grab a basketball, lay down on your back and practice your grip when shooting. Shoot the ball up in the empty air and catch it. Do it over and over until you’ve got a solid and comfortable grip, then transfer it to the court.
4. Smooth Shot Delivery
When you shoot, your shot should be smooth and controlled. Don’t dip the ball down like you’re winding up to throw it. Instead, keep the ball close to your chest or waist, then push it straight up toward the basket.
Make sure your elbow is under the ball (not to the side). This helps the ball go straight. Also, use your legs to help you push the ball upward, so your arms don’t do all the work!
5. Follow Through with Your Shot
After you release the ball, hold your arm up for a moment. This is called a follow-through, and it’s super important! Relax your wrist and point your fingers toward the hoop. Imagine you’re trying to “reach” for the basket with your fingers.
Tip: You should see your fingers pointing at the target, almost like you’re reaching for the stars! If it helps, when you finish your shot, pretend like you’re reaching into a cookie jar that’s all the way on top of the refrigerator.
Part 2: Drills to Help You Shoot Better
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s talk about some fun drills you can do to get better at shooting! Remember, the more you practice, the better you’ll get, so try to practice a little every day.
1. “Nothing but the Net” Drill
This drill is simple and awesome because it helps you focus on making the ball go straight through the hoop without hitting anything. Here’s how you do it:
- Pick four spots around the basket (baseline, wings, top of the key).
- Take 5 shots from each spot.
- The goal is to make sure the ball goes through the hoop without hitting the rim or the backboard—only the net! That’s why it’s called “nothing but the net.”
Tip: Don’t rush! Focus on your form and your aim. Try to make all your shots “nothing but net” before you move on.
2. Close Range Reps
It’s important to practice your shot from close to the basket first. Starting from close makes it easier to focus on the right shooting form.
Here’s what you can do:
- Start about 3-5 feet away from the hoop and take 10 shots.
- Don’t rush—make sure you’re getting the form just right before you move back.
- Once you feel comfortable, you can move further out to practice shots from the free-throw line or even beyond.
Tip: If you miss, think about what went wrong. Did you jump too high or too low? Was your aim off? Figuring this out will help you shoot better next time!
3. One-Armed Shots Drill
This is a fun drill to help you focus on your follow-through and wrist action.
Here’s how to do it:
- Start right under the basket and shoot 5 one-armed shots with your shooting arm only.
- Use your legs to push the ball up (don’t just throw it with your arm).
- After you make 5 shots, take a small step back and do the same thing again.
Tip: Remember to keep your follow-through strong and your wrist relaxed. You want to make sure the ball leaves your hand the same way every time!
Part 3: Traits of Great Shooters (What Makes Them Special)
Great shooters don’t just practice—they also have certain habits and mindsets that help them stay focused and confident on the court. Here are some traits of great shooters that you can practice too:
1. Never Give Up
Even when things don’t go right, great shooters keep trying. They know that missing a shot is normal. They just think, “Next shot, I’m going to make it!”
Tip: Don’t get upset if you miss a shot. Keep practicing, and your next shot might be the one that goes in!
2. Always Stay Focused on the Next Shot
Great shooters don’t dwell on their mistakes. If they miss a shot, they think, “Okay, that’s over. Let’s make the next one!” This is called being focused on the present moment.
Tip: Each shot is a new opportunity. Stay focused on what’s coming, not what already happened.
3. Confidence is Key
Great shooters believe that every shot they take will go in. They have confidence in their skills and never doubt themselves.
Tip: Even if you miss a shot, tell yourself, “I know I can make the next one.” Believe in yourself! This was always a struggle for me when I played. I’ve i didn’t have confidence I would miss shots I normally would easily make. If you put in the hard work, you can have confidence that it will pay off, don’t doubt yourself.
Part 4: Final Thoughts and Tips for Success
Becoming a great shooter takes practice, but it’s totally possible if you put in the effort! Always remember:
- Practice your form: Work on your stance, grip, and follow-through every time you shoot.
- Keep shooting: Even if you miss, keep practicing and focus on improving.
- Stay confident: Believe in yourself and your shot, and don’t let mistakes get you down!
If you follow these tips and drills, you’ll definitely get better at shooting. Keep practicing, stay patient, and most importantly—have fun! Shooting isn’t just about making points; it’s about enjoying the game and improving every day.
Happy shooting!