Beginner’s Jump shot technique drill

Given all of the biomechanical concepts we have discussed in this blog, we have developed a skill drill that focuses on the development of the fundamental aspects of the jump shot technique. This drill is designed for beginners and allows them to explore their perceptual motor landscape without too much pressure from opposing defenders. In this drill players practice their jump shot from the free throw line. The small shooting distance will allow beginner players to focus on the technique fundamentals without worrying about the power required to make the basket. There will be one shooting player and one defending player who starts on the baseline next to the key (see diagram below). The defender needs to run toward the shooting player and attempt to block his shot. The shooting player can shoot any time after the defender makes his first step giving the shooter plenty of time to perform a jump shot without being impeded. This is ideal for beginners as they may not be able to perform the shot with the defender in front of them but still provides a time constraint which should improve the speed of their shooting technique.

The game has a competitive element as the shooter takes ten shots before swapping with the defender to see who can score the most baskets. The following technical pointers should be used to allow the development of proper technique from a beginner’s perspective. The feet should be staggered at take-off and landing, one in front of and one behind the free throw line. For a shot to be considered valid the players feet must start and finish in this manner. This allows the player to jump with horizontal velocity only and allows them to remain balanced in their landing as discussed previously. By focusing on their position relative to the line it provides an external focus for their technique development which is shown to be more effective for motor learning (Masters, 2000). The shooter will also be required to point their elbow toward the ring, which will allow the player to generate force through their arm during the release and will line their shooting arm with the basket, which will help increase their accuracy. The last technical cue for the shooting play will be for them to point with their fingers at the basket after the release of the shot. This will facilitate the wrist snapping action that generates the backspin on the ball as earlier discussed. Once again this cue is externally focused and should help increase shot accuracy.