Shooting a Basketball
Basketball Shooting: One-Page Intro Guide
1. Foundation: Stance & Balance
Feet shoulder-width apart.
Shooting-side foot slightly ahead.
Knees bent, weight evenly balanced.
Shoulders relaxed.
Goal: A stable base that keeps your shot straight.
2. Hand Placement
Shooting Hand
Under the ball with a slight fingertip “air gap” under the palm.
Wrist bent back (“tray position”).
Guide Hand
On the side of the ball.
Helps stabilize only — never push or spin.
3. Set Point
Bring ball to eye or forehead level.
Shooting elbow under or slightly forward.
Eyes on the rim.
4. Shooting Motion
Bend knees slightly.
Rise smoothly upward.
Extend arm straight.
Snap wrist forward.
Release ball with soft rotation.
Key Cue: “Up, extend, snap.”
5. Follow-Through
Hold for 1–2 seconds.
Wrist relaxed, fingers pointing at the rim.
Hand looks like you’re reaching into a cookie jar.
Purpose: Reinforces accuracy and consistency.
6. Shot Arc
Aim for a high, soft arc.
Visualize the ball coming “down into” the hoop.
7. Form Shooting Drill (Daily)
Stand 2–4 feet from the basket.
Shoot with one hand (no guide hand).
Focus on balance, arc, and follow-through.
Make 25–50 slow, perfect reps.
Quick Checklist
☑ Balanced stance
☑ Correct hand placement
☑ Smooth motion
☑ High arc
☑ Hold follow-through
