Basketball Tip
Basketball Tip: How to Master the Jump Shot
A great jump shot is one of the best things you can add to your game. The best part? You can practice this tip by yourself. Mastering this skill is all about technique, balance, and repetition but the most imperative part is your will to succeed. The greatest basketball players to ever play the game started just where you are now and worked hard to master this skill. Now it’s your turn. Here are a few jump shot tips, that are commonly taught at Nike Basketball Camps, to help take your game to the next level.
Before the shot
The first step in improving your jump shot technique is keeping your eyes on the rim throughout the whole shot. This will keep your form compact and will lead to a straighter shot. When you get ready to shoot, make sure your feet are shoulder width apart facing the basket and your knees are bent (much like a spring ready to release). Next, you will move the ball into what is called the ‘shot pocket’. This means that you hold the ball just above your waist lined up to the basket. The final thing you do before you are ready to shoot is to find the right grip. In order to do this, you should place the ball’s air hole between your middle and index finger while spreading your fingers enough to feel like you can balance the ball. Let the ball sit on your shooting hand and get ready to begin your release.
During the shot
After completing all of the pre-shot prep, you will be ready to move on to the next phase: during your shot. Make sure your other hand or “non-shooting hand” is on the side of the ball. This hand should not affect the ball’s spin and should not move upon release. Begin to bring the ball directly up from the balanced position you had it in keeping your shooting hand’s elbow underneath the ball. Keep the ball in front of you and all at once begin your jump, releasing all of your power loaded up in your bent knees and bent arms at once. Release the ball at the highest point your hands can go and keep your shooting hand pointing at the basket in a straight line. The ball should be in a backspin and you’re on your way to scoring a bucket.
After the shot
After the ball is released try and land in the same spot you jumped to make sure you are balanced. In your follow through your wrists should be relaxed on the way down and your fingers still pointing at where you wanted to shoot. Hold this position until the ball hits the basket.
If you can practice these steps consistently you will begin to see a major upgrade to your jump shot technique and results. Remember: practice makes perfect. Check out more basketball shooting tips and get better this summer at a Nike Basketball Camp near you.