Shooting Tips for Better Basketball Performance

If you want to put more points on the board, it starts with a solid shot. Most players think talent is everything, but consistent shooting is mostly about habit and practice. Below you’ll find the basics you need to check, plus a few drills that actually work.

Fundamentals of a Good Shot

First, set your stance. Feet should be shoulder‑wide, knees slightly bent, and the shooting foot a little ahead of the non‑shooting foot. This gives you balance and lets you push off with power.

Next, focus on grip. Hold the ball with your fingertips, not the palm. You want a soft feeling, as if the ball is resting on the pads of your fingers. This helps you control spin and direction.

The shooting motion is a smooth chain: bend, jump, release, follow‑through. Bend at the knees, then explode upward. Your shooting arm should go straight up, and the elbows stay under the ball. When you release, snap your wrist and let your fingers point toward the hoop. A good follow‑through looks like you’re reaching into a cookie jar.

Eye focus matters too. Look at the target, not the ball. Most coaches say aim for the back of the rim or the center of the hoop. Pick one spot and stick with it; it trains your brain to lock in.

Finally, breathing. Take a quick breath before you shoot, then exhale as you release. This keeps tension out of your shoulders and gives you a smoother motion.

Drills to Boost Your Accuracy

Now that you know the basics, practice with purpose. Here are three drills you can do alone or with a teammate.

Form Shooting (10‑foot) – Stand about 10 feet from the basket, no dribble. Focus only on your shooting mechanics. Make 20 shots, then step back five feet and repeat. This forces you to keep the same form even as you get farther.

Spot Shooting – Choose five spots around the arc: left corner, right corner, left wing, right wing, and top of the key. Shoot five shots from each spot, then move to the next. Keep track of makes and misses, and aim to improve your percentage each session.

One‑Dribble Pull‑Ups – Start under the basket, dribble once to either side, then pull up for a jump shot. This mimics game situations where you get a quick chance off the dribble. Do 10 reps per side and focus on keeping your balance.

Consistency beats intensity. Do these drills three times a week, and you’ll notice your shot getting tighter within a month.

Remember, shooting isn’t just about power. It’s about repeatable motion, good balance, and a clear target. Work on the fundamentals, add purposeful drills, and watch your scoring go up. Keep your head down, stay relaxed, and enjoy the feel of the ball swishing through the net.