Your main priority when learning basketball shooting is to learn the basic fundamentals. Many people do not have the patience to follow the basic principles that lead you to being a great shot in basketball and settle on taking shortcuts.
Many kids grow up watching the Pro's and try to copy their style. This will not work; those pros are there because they have learned what it takes to correctly make shot after shot. They have received professional training to get to that level. If you are trying to learn to shoot, don't do what your favorite pro does, learn the fundamentals and build from there.
Below are six important aspects of basketball shooting you need to practice:
Tips-1. Increase the arc of the ball in its travel to the net. This will increase the amount of space for the ball to enter the hoop. The difference between a 30 degree arc and the preferred 70 degreed are is a lot.
Tips-2. Work on your elbow positioning. Keeping your elbow under the ball and in line with the center of your body will help keep the ball on course. If you shoot with your elbow sticking out to the side, the chance of your shot going off course is increased.
Tips-3. When shooting, aim for a spot just before the back of the rim. Even if you hit the backside of the rim, the chance of its bouncing in is pretty good. If you bounce off the front of the rim it can go anywhere.
Tips-4. Do not tilt your head to the left or right when you shoot, this can cause your body to lean to the side. You want your head to be aligned straight with your body.
Tips-5. As soon as you get the ball and before you shoot, focus on the spot just before the rim. That is the target you are aiming for so focus on it quickly so you have more time to judge your shot.
Tips-6. After you release the ball hold the follow through. Your elbow should be just above the eyes, arm straight and the fingers below the wrist as if limp wristed.
These are some of the basic fundamentals all basketball players should work on at any level of play. Consciously practice them so they become second nature to you. Be careful that you do not force you to keep practicing them when you are overly tired because you may start to take short cuts. Make every effort to do these things precisely.
