The most important of basketball workouts is the shooting drill. If you are not able to score, you are not an asset to the team!
Many people ignore the need for good form when practising their shot. This can lead to an inconsistent technique, which in turn leads to inconsistency on the court on game day.
There are two stages to the shot: preparation and action.
1. Preparation.
Many coaches focus on the ‘L’ shape of the arm. The elbow is bent to 90 degrees, and the wrist is cocked back. The ball rests gently on the palm and should be able to rest there comfortably without the assistance of the other hand.
What many people ignore is balance. Just as arm technique needs to be consistent, leg position should be the same every shot. Knees should be slightly bent, and either one foot forward or both feet equal.
2. Action
The act of shooting is the part of our basketball workout we all love. However, it is realy the preparation that is more important, as that creates good shooting form.
Elbow and wrist should ‘lock and snap’. The elbow should lock out all the way, and the wrist should snap forward. Many people like to think of the wrist finishing position as being like trying to reach into the cookie jar off the top shelf!
Leg should go from being bent to being straight while the arm is moving. Remember to jump!
These are the basics of a good jump shot, which is an important part of any basketball workout.