The Answer

The biomechanical principles discussed in this blog have given the basketball player much to think about regarding the complexity of the basketball jump shot. Firstly it is important for any player to understand newton’s three laws of motion as these are the physical laws that govern the movement of both the player and the ball when performing the jump shot. When considering these laws with regards to a jump shot a player can understand why he needs impart more force on the ground to jump higher or to accelerate the speed of his shot to avoid being blocked by a defender. A player should also understand the concept of the kinetic chain and how the muscles in the leg torso and arms should all be utilized together when performing the jump shot. If there are more muscle groups involved then more force can be generated which means greater ball velocity and the potential for reduced shot time. By understanding the concepts of centre of mass and upward velocity players can reach the peak of their jump, remain balanced and allow themselves to hang in the air. This balance and added hang time creates a more stable environment for the execution of the shot through the shooting arm where force can be applied directly to the centre of the ball.

By utilising the Magnus effect when shooting a player can significantly increase the chance of scoring a basket. By understanding how this principle works a player can then attempt to provide maximum backspin on the ball, thus opening up a more favourable angle of entry for the ball over the basket. This principle also decreases the defenders chance of blocking the ball as the initial spin pushes the ball up and away from the defenders arms. Finally by utilising the principles of projectile motion a player can obtain greater control of the range of their shot which will ultimately increase shot accuracy. By releasing their shot at an angle of around fifty degrees the player will create a more favourable angle of entry for the ball in the basket. Also a player that understands the importance of projection height on the balls trajectory will increase their chance of scoring a basket. Through the understanding and application of all these principles we believe that any player can significantly improve their shot percentage during a game and increase their team’s chance of winning the game.

How else can we use this information?

By understanding the biomechanical principles that underpin the basketball jump shot, we can go about analysing techniques in order to suggest modifications to improve shooting percentages. If we are able to show a player what their jump shot looks like currently, highlight key areas that need to change, and be able to give a specific reason as to how their shot will increase when these changes are implemented, players are much more likely to take this on board. For example, if we identify a slight horizontal movement in the jumping phase of the jump shot, we can ask the player to focus more on jumping straight up and down, and then compare results after the change has been made.

As a result of greater understanding of what it takes for an ‘optimal’ jump shot, it allows for a greater appreciation of professional players who are forced to attempt jump shots without the optimal technique due to pressure of an opponent for an example, and find a way to make it work. It has shown that while the optimal jump shot technique is the preferred method, it isn’t always practical in a game situation.