Becoming a sharpshooter on the court takes more than just natural talent—it requires consistent practice and effective drills to fine-tune your shooting mechanics. Whether you’re aiming to improve your three-point shots or perfect your free throws, these five drills will help you boost your shooting accuracy.
1. The 1-2 Step Shooting Drill
This drill focuses on building the foundation for good footwork and balance, which are critical for accurate shooting. Start by standing at the three-point line or mid-range. As you receive the pass, take a controlled 1-2 step towards the basket and go into your shooting motion. Repeat from different spots around the court. This will help you develop muscle memory for quick, balanced shots.
Key Tip: Make sure your shoulders are square to the basket and maintain proper follow-through after each shot.
2. Form Shooting Close to the Basket
This classic drill is all about honing your shooting form. Stand close to the basket (about 3-5 feet) and focus on perfecting your shooting technique: feet shoulder-width apart, elbow tucked in, and a soft release with a high arc. The goal is to get “nothing but net” on every shot. Gradually move further away from the basket as you improve.
Key Tip: Focus on your form, not your speed. Quality over quantity will give you the best results.
3. The “Around the World” Drill
The “Around the World” drill helps you practice shooting from different spots on the court, simulating real game situations. Pick five spots around the three-point line: two corners, two wings, and the top of the key. Take five shots from each spot and keep track of your makes and misses. This drill will help you become comfortable shooting from anywhere on the floor.
Key Tip: Challenge yourself to make a certain number of shots in a row before moving to the next spot.
4. The Catch-and-Shoot Drill
A lot of game-time shots are taken off the catch, so this drill is perfect for simulating real-game action. Have a partner pass you the ball or use a basketball return system. As you catch the ball, focus on quickly transitioning into your shooting motion. This drill emphasizes quick decision-making and improving your release speed.
Key Tip: Practice this drill at game speed to simulate the pressure of an actual game.
5. Free Throw Practice with Pressure
Free throws are a critical part of every game, and accuracy is key. To simulate game pressure, start by making five consecutive free throws. After each set, step back to the three-point line and take a jump shot. For every jump shot you miss, add an extra free throw to your next set. This drill builds confidence and consistency, especially when you’re tired or under pressure.
Key Tip: Develop a consistent pre-shot routine that you follow every time you step to the line.
Conclusion
Shooting accuracy comes with focused practice and proper technique. Incorporate these drills into your training routine, and you’ll see improvements in your shooting percentage over time. Ready to take your game to the next level? Visit BasketballAbout.com for the best basketball gear and training tools to support your journey to becoming a better shooter!