It has been said before that there are three major key points to youth basketball fundamentals. Out of the three points, a major key is offensive prowess. More than just talent, the mechanical focus of scoring needs to be considered in regards to the art of shooting. The art of shooting is difficult to quantify into writing alone, but we will try to focus on it in regards to concentration, and finesse. Each individual has a different way of shooting, there are some that can do it in traditional methods, but others have a bit more finesse. Regardless of their shooting style, there are some common grounds that should be looked at.
Another key point in regards to youth basketball fundamentals is the art of shooting. It is near impossible to teach the proper form of shooting through written means, however, there are some small steps that can help you shoot better. Assume a player’s shoulder is in-line with the basket and facing the basket. A person should align with the rim, and the player should tuck and concentrate on the shot. Following through with the shot is very important here no matter how you shoot the ball, you need to put some backspin on the ball and have a light touch. Make sure you’re not throwing the ball but allowing a light touch off the tips of the fingers. The player should concentrate on practicing their shot in regards to form, as some players can shoot in different positions based on their frame. The best thing to do is practice the shot in various forms, on a daily basis to see where you are and how to improve the shot.
Footwork is another key point to shooting, and is sometimes overlooked. More than just dribbling, feet need to be firmly placed for balance before a jump shot is taken or a free throw is shot. Proper placement could mean the basis of shooting a straight shot and landing firmly on the hardwood, and slipping or hurting yourself. Proper form aside; feet need to be used to not only follow through but to help propel the ball forward. Furthermore, a player needs to be ready for the ball to jump back, fall off the rim, or to simply get back to a defensive position. If player’s feet are not planted firm or ready to move, an offensive rebound or defensive position could be lost and the opponent could fly by. It’s important to not over think this step though, because if you’re too worried about your feet, you might miss the ball or the opponent as well.
Repetition is the last point to consider in regards to the art of shooting. That’s right, you need to remember that without practice you can never get comfortable with the art form nor will you get your footwork down. Hard work involves countless hours of repetition, so make sure you set aside time for shooting and focus on placement of your feet, squaring your shoulders, following through and developing strength in your body. More so than simple strength, you need stamina to carry you through the physicality of the game.
