The actual shooting is the part every kid wants to jump right to – forget where the rest of your body is positioned, let’s get the shot!!! And every coach knows that’s just not going to get the ball through the hoop – no matter where you are on the court.

Here at the The Basketball Goal Store we know that too. Which is why, in addition to offering the premier, in-ground Goalrilla Basketball Goal equipment you need to use, our blog is your resource to find step-by-step instructions, tips and drills – and demonstration videos – to learn the fundamentals to make every player more successful getting that ball through the rim and onto the scoreboard. Check back often (or subscribe to our blog!) to catch every post.

Fundamentals of Shooting: Part 3 (Perimeter)

There are three phases of shooting:

1.       The Shot Prep Position

2.       The Cocked and Flexed Shooting Position

3.       The Release Shooting Position

Each phase of shooting requires the proper technique including the position of key body components:

• Footwork
• Lower body
• Upper body
• Head
• Arm
• Hand

Part 3 – The Release Shooting Position

We’ve covered parts 1 and 2 of the Fundamentals of Shooting perimeter shots already. Let’s talk about the last phase.

Footwork

• From the Cocked and Flexed Shooting Position, fully extend the legs
• Jump into the air in one smooth motion
• Feet leave the ground completely

Lower Body Position

• From the Cocked and Flexed position, knees fully extend to complete Swing and Sit motion
• Lower body remains square to the basket

Upper Body Position

• Upper body extends into upright position
• Shoulders are square to the basket

Head and Eyes Position

• Head is up, facing forward
• Eyes are focused on the front rim of the basket
• Important note! Do not follow the flight of the ball with head or eyes

Arm Position

• Shooting arm fully extends matching rhythmic motion
• The guide arm will remain up with the elbow positioned out in front of pivot foot

Hand Position

• The fingers are spread and the ball rests on the pads and fingertips of both hands (No palms!!) until the ball is released
• The off-hand remains in the support position with fingers pointing toward the ceiling
• Upon release, the ball rolls off the fingertips of the shooting hand in the same rhythmic motion as the arm is extended and the wrist snaps at the top of the extension (known as follow through)
• The fingertips of the shooting hand come to rest pointing toward the floor at the end of the extension

It takes practice to pull all three phases together to execute the shot, but using the proper fundamental form will drive your shooting average up. Get to work – make some shots – and some points!

-Pat of the Basketball Goal Store Blog Team