Meltdown of mind
Friday, November 03, 2006
The Monty Hall Problem
Imagine yourself on a game show. You are the contestant and you have to pick a door out of the three doors in front of you. The host says that there is a prize behind only one of these doors. Now, you choose a door. The host then opens a door which is not the door you've chosen. Voila!! there is no prize behind that door. After all this drama, the host gives you a choice. you can keep your door, or you can change your choice to the other unopenned door. Faced with this seemingly ambiguous situation, what will you do? Which choice will give you a better chance of winning?
Now, for most people, the intiutive answer will be that it doesn't matter, because there are two doors and there is an equal probability that the prize is behind one particular or the other. So, the answer is 50% for each case.
As you may have guessed that this answer is wrong. And here is the explaination:
Suppose, instead of 3 doors there are a 100 doors. You select one of these 100 doors. The probability that you chose the 'prize' door is 1%. And the probability that you didn't choose the prize door is 99%. Out of the 99 unchosen doors, the host opens 98 doors, non of them containing the prize. With this fact in mind, we can speculate what is happening. The probability of the prize being contained in one of the 99 doors was 99%, but now we know that 98 of those doors do not contain the prize, but this does not change the fact that your chosen door's probability of being the 'prize' door has changed. It is still 1%. What has changed is the probability of the lone remaining door among the unchosen doors. Now its probability is 99% of being the 'prize' door. So, clearly, you'll be much better off changing your choice rather than staying with your current choice.
And what is true for 100 doors is true for 3 doors as well. Here, the probability of winning is 66.66% if you change your choice.
Some things are not what they appear at first. Beware. ¶ 2:37 AM 4 comments
Now, for most people, the intiutive answer will be that it doesn't matter, because there are two doors and there is an equal probability that the prize is behind one particular or the other. So, the answer is 50% for each case.
As you may have guessed that this answer is wrong. And here is the explaination:
Suppose, instead of 3 doors there are a 100 doors. You select one of these 100 doors. The probability that you chose the 'prize' door is 1%. And the probability that you didn't choose the prize door is 99%. Out of the 99 unchosen doors, the host opens 98 doors, non of them containing the prize. With this fact in mind, we can speculate what is happening. The probability of the prize being contained in one of the 99 doors was 99%, but now we know that 98 of those doors do not contain the prize, but this does not change the fact that your chosen door's probability of being the 'prize' door has changed. It is still 1%. What has changed is the probability of the lone remaining door among the unchosen doors. Now its probability is 99% of being the 'prize' door. So, clearly, you'll be much better off changing your choice rather than staying with your current choice.
And what is true for 100 doors is true for 3 doors as well. Here, the probability of winning is 66.66% if you change your choice.
Some things are not what they appear at first. Beware. ¶ 2:37 AM 4 comments
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Total garbage
What??? Do you even know me? Have you ever seen me? Have i even seen you? Do I know you? If any of the above questions were answered by you in 'yes', then good. Otherwise.... what use is my blog to you? I don't know and I think I don't even care. I hardly read anyone else's blog. As I said, total garbage, just filling up space. Work on this.....
1. Close your left eye and watch the left set of dots below with your right eye:
.... ....
Chances are you won't be able to see the right dots in your peripheral vision. If it dowesn't work try moving forward a little; still doesn't work, try moving back a little.
2. 1
1 1
2 1
1 2 1 1
1 1 1 2 2 1
What series of numbers will come below this? Answer at the bottom.
3. If you were not human, but a cross between a chick and a duck, What would you like to be called? Chuck or Dick? (Nicked from F.R.I.E.N.D.S)
4. If you travel 25 miles an hour in one direction and 40 miles and hour for the return journey, what is your average speed for the total journey. Too easy, no answer provided......... ohkay the answer is 30.6 something.
5. Approximately when did India get Independence? choices are : A.D. or B.C. Answer at the end.
7. Where did the 6th question go?
8. Their are three errers in this line. Tell me what are these errors. Answer provided at the end.
9. You are so dumb that you didn't realise that this list is not a list of questions.
Go away dumbass.
6. Ah here is the sixth question.
10. Do you think I should turn off my spell-check? It's bugging my typping. oh, yess, turrned it of. I'm sech a releivd guy now. Turrning it on again whould be nice tho.
11. You are still here?!?!?!
12. Buzz off. Don't you have anything else to do? Go away, write your own blog lazy ass.
13. Ok, now, let's play russian roullete... or whatever. I have a gun with 6 consecutive chambers for bullets. Four consecutive chambers are filled with bullets. Now, I give it a spin. Nobody knows where the empty chambers are now. I put the gun on your head. Click. Thank god it was an empty chamber. now, I have to do this again. But you have a choice. You can decide weather I spin it again or weather I just shoot. Now.... decide.
14. Answers :
Answer to question 2 : 3 1 2 2 1 1. Reason : Every line is the discription of what is contained in the above line. If you didn't get it, comment, and maybe I'll explain again.
Answer to question 5 : Buzz off dumbo. Both are correct.
Answer to question 8: First error is the spelling of 'there' is written 'their'. Second error is the spelling of the word error. Third error is that the line says that there are three errors bu actually, there are only two errors. So, this is the third error. Saucy... isn't it?
Hah! This was fun. I'll do it again. ¶ 2:08 PM 0 comments
1. Close your left eye and watch the left set of dots below with your right eye:
.... ....
Chances are you won't be able to see the right dots in your peripheral vision. If it dowesn't work try moving forward a little; still doesn't work, try moving back a little.
2. 1
1 1
2 1
1 2 1 1
1 1 1 2 2 1
What series of numbers will come below this? Answer at the bottom.
3. If you were not human, but a cross between a chick and a duck, What would you like to be called? Chuck or Dick? (Nicked from F.R.I.E.N.D.S)
4. If you travel 25 miles an hour in one direction and 40 miles and hour for the return journey, what is your average speed for the total journey. Too easy, no answer provided......... ohkay the answer is 30.6 something.
5. Approximately when did India get Independence? choices are : A.D. or B.C. Answer at the end.
7. Where did the 6th question go?
8. Their are three errers in this line. Tell me what are these errors. Answer provided at the end.
9. You are so dumb that you didn't realise that this list is not a list of questions.
Go away dumbass.
6. Ah here is the sixth question.
10. Do you think I should turn off my spell-check? It's bugging my typping. oh, yess, turrned it of. I'm sech a releivd guy now. Turrning it on again whould be nice tho.
11. You are still here?!?!?!
12. Buzz off. Don't you have anything else to do? Go away, write your own blog lazy ass.
13. Ok, now, let's play russian roullete... or whatever. I have a gun with 6 consecutive chambers for bullets. Four consecutive chambers are filled with bullets. Now, I give it a spin. Nobody knows where the empty chambers are now. I put the gun on your head. Click. Thank god it was an empty chamber. now, I have to do this again. But you have a choice. You can decide weather I spin it again or weather I just shoot. Now.... decide.
14. Answers :
Answer to question 2 : 3 1 2 2 1 1. Reason : Every line is the discription of what is contained in the above line. If you didn't get it, comment, and maybe I'll explain again.
Answer to question 5 : Buzz off dumbo. Both are correct.
Answer to question 8: First error is the spelling of 'there' is written 'their'. Second error is the spelling of the word error. Third error is that the line says that there are three errors bu actually, there are only two errors. So, this is the third error. Saucy... isn't it?
Hah! This was fun. I'll do it again. ¶ 2:08 PM 0 comments
Saturday, August 05, 2006
Hustle, a domain for the extra-ordinary
"There is one type of great play in Basketball, which doesn't require the ability to shoot, pass, run or jump; hustle, a domain for those blessed with the gift of desire." -- NBA's 100 greatest plays.
What is hustle? It is the desire to get to the loose ball before the opponent does, by any means possible. At the highest level of play, the stuggle to outwork the opponent is the greatest skill of all. This play can possibly be a yardstick to measure a player's heart, his toughness, his will to succeed.
"I found out early in my carrier that I have to play hard, because if I don't, I become an ordinary player." -- Same Video.
Some of the greatest players in NBA are not there due to their shooting, or dribbling or anything else. They are there because they have to heart to give up their body in order to fight for their team. These players are feared because they have the potential to win a game by shear aggression and mental toughness. Players with ordinary physical attributes have succeeded against the likes of Micheal Jordan due to this desire.
Some people call it the most selfless thing to do for your team. Because nobody keeps a note of how many possesions you have stolen because of this play. After watching the videos of this play, I am quite impressed to say the least.
I can't emphasize it enough. You'll have to watch the video yourself. ¶ 8:01 PM 0 comments
What is hustle? It is the desire to get to the loose ball before the opponent does, by any means possible. At the highest level of play, the stuggle to outwork the opponent is the greatest skill of all. This play can possibly be a yardstick to measure a player's heart, his toughness, his will to succeed.
"I found out early in my carrier that I have to play hard, because if I don't, I become an ordinary player." -- Same Video.
Some of the greatest players in NBA are not there due to their shooting, or dribbling or anything else. They are there because they have to heart to give up their body in order to fight for their team. These players are feared because they have the potential to win a game by shear aggression and mental toughness. Players with ordinary physical attributes have succeeded against the likes of Micheal Jordan due to this desire.
Some people call it the most selfless thing to do for your team. Because nobody keeps a note of how many possesions you have stolen because of this play. After watching the videos of this play, I am quite impressed to say the least.
I can't emphasize it enough. You'll have to watch the video yourself. ¶ 8:01 PM 0 comments
Thursday, August 03, 2006
A Google Story
Google. A word which first sounds funny; then, after some use, it sounds reliable; then, after they come to your college and take 5 people for interns on the basis of just their aggregates and you're not in those 5, it sounds sad. Sad, because you couldn't get a fabulous internship oportunity due to some stupid aggregates, which no one should care about after finding out how the papers are checked and how even the best people can get lower marks. That's exactly what happened in our class. This criterion for selecting people is not going to do them any good. Google, as far as I know, needs programmers; and most of the top ranking students don't know zilch about C except needed to pass a subject a year ago. That's because they haven't studied C before in schools, that's all. Those who have studied C in schools are incidently the average ranking people in the class. Now, in my opinion, they shouldn't have used this criterion for selection. A test on things that are important to Google could have been arranged and guys could have been selected on the basis of the marks in the test. I don't know why would they take people on the basis of the marks obtained in subjects which are not even remotely related to the workings of Google.
It's no use thinking about that now. I just hope the Google guys read this post. Hey Google, see, I'm using a platform provided by you to find faults in your selection procedure. Haha, a bit ironic i guess.... ¶ 8:47 PM 0 comments
It's no use thinking about that now. I just hope the Google guys read this post. Hey Google, see, I'm using a platform provided by you to find faults in your selection procedure. Haha, a bit ironic i guess.... ¶ 8:47 PM 0 comments
Omkara : A first hand review
Omkara, the story nicked from Mr. Shakespear's Othello. And while he's probably turning in his grave, I assure you that this movie is gonna do some awesome business. But wait... As they say, read a good novel before some director screws it up. That's because, even though I haven't read the novel, I can say fairly sure that the novel is much better than the movie. Well, to me the whole idea of turning a book into a film is a bad idea. A novel is meant to be somewhat passive, read in leisure and all... But viewing a film is totally different. You expect some good ending (Not saying 'happy ending' mind you). While a novel is meant to be ended passively, with some strings left open so that the reader can use his imagination.
This approach obviously is suited for the novel, but the film has to be made differently so that, well, it seems like a film. some directors can do it, some can't.
The whole point of this discussion is that this film, as far as I'm concerned, is not a film you'd remember for a long time. It's a good film, but not great. Probably because it was a novel to start with. It's a story of a man, Omkara, who is sucked into a trap by none other than his trusted right hand man. All this is with a backdrop of politics, and corruption. But, it's not the story which is the highlight of the film; it's Ajay Devgan with his powerhouse performance in the role of Omkara. His performance is well complimented by Saif Ali Khan, and Konkona Sen. Nasseruddin Shah, the wizzard of acting, is also there to support Ajay's fabulous performance. All in all, the movie is definetely worth a watch. The music is good, but not mind-blowing.
Do watch it; but don't take your kids with you; because if you do, you'll come out of the theater in 5 mins. ¶ 6:56 AM 0 comments
This approach obviously is suited for the novel, but the film has to be made differently so that, well, it seems like a film. some directors can do it, some can't.
The whole point of this discussion is that this film, as far as I'm concerned, is not a film you'd remember for a long time. It's a good film, but not great. Probably because it was a novel to start with. It's a story of a man, Omkara, who is sucked into a trap by none other than his trusted right hand man. All this is with a backdrop of politics, and corruption. But, it's not the story which is the highlight of the film; it's Ajay Devgan with his powerhouse performance in the role of Omkara. His performance is well complimented by Saif Ali Khan, and Konkona Sen. Nasseruddin Shah, the wizzard of acting, is also there to support Ajay's fabulous performance. All in all, the movie is definetely worth a watch. The music is good, but not mind-blowing.
Do watch it; but don't take your kids with you; because if you do, you'll come out of the theater in 5 mins. ¶ 6:56 AM 0 comments
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
A new Start
It's been 3 months since my previous post. I just forgot about this in the midst of exams and holidays. So, now I think i'm ready to re-energise my blog with some good stuff. Don't worry guys and gals, this blog will still be mostly dedicated to basketball, but some more things need to be added; after all I do a lot of other stuff as well.
I've been recently playing Counter Strike; the game, as we all know, is awesomely deep without being boring, which is somewhat rare. The depth of the game is not visible initially; which is good because a newbie, or a noob as people like to call them, finds this game very familiar and intutive. But make no mistake, a newbie gets pounded by good players on the pubs(public servers) like a rag doll.
I've been playing it for two months now and I too get amazed watching the leaders play. I do recommend this game to all the FPS lovers, strategy game lovers, arcade lovers, simulation lovers, gun lovers, et al; but take it with a pinch of salt, because you'll have to leave your ego at the door while playing this game. You will be harassed to no end initially, but if you stick with it, you'll soon become a good player.
There are numerous sites on which you can find help: http://csnation.net, http://www.forumplanet.com etc.
Now for some basketball:
The Spurs lost to Dallas Mavericks in the second round of the NBA playoffs. (Almost sounds like six o'clock news). This news is older than a baby who can sit.
Miami Heat won the NBA championship. But all that is old news.
The new news is for the hardcore spurs fans like me. Since, most of the people who'll read this are probably still sane, I'll spare you that part. So, you can leave the post here.
Well, now that I've got rid of those idiot non-fans, I'll tell you a great place to get Spurs news:
Just go to spursreport.com to get all you need. ¶ 10:58 AM 0 comments
I've been recently playing Counter Strike; the game, as we all know, is awesomely deep without being boring, which is somewhat rare. The depth of the game is not visible initially; which is good because a newbie, or a noob as people like to call them, finds this game very familiar and intutive. But make no mistake, a newbie gets pounded by good players on the pubs(public servers) like a rag doll.
I've been playing it for two months now and I too get amazed watching the leaders play. I do recommend this game to all the FPS lovers, strategy game lovers, arcade lovers, simulation lovers, gun lovers, et al; but take it with a pinch of salt, because you'll have to leave your ego at the door while playing this game. You will be harassed to no end initially, but if you stick with it, you'll soon become a good player.
There are numerous sites on which you can find help: http://csnation.net, http://www.forumplanet.com etc.
Now for some basketball:
The Spurs lost to Dallas Mavericks in the second round of the NBA playoffs. (Almost sounds like six o'clock news). This news is older than a baby who can sit.
Miami Heat won the NBA championship. But all that is old news.
The new news is for the hardcore spurs fans like me. Since, most of the people who'll read this are probably still sane, I'll spare you that part. So, you can leave the post here.
Well, now that I've got rid of those idiot non-fans, I'll tell you a great place to get Spurs news:
Just go to spursreport.com to get all you need. ¶ 10:58 AM 0 comments
Sunday, April 23, 2006
The importance of basics in Basketball
After gaining loads of experience with basketball, by playing and by reading, I am now in a position to put forth what I have learnt. The two main things that make a good basketball player are:
1. Skills
2. Basics
Now, skills come first. You need atleast some basic set of skills with you even to start playing basketball. These include running, hand-eye coordination, jumping, quickness etc. They are not basketball specific; these are what you need in some quantities to start your game. No doubt, they will improve as you play. Other skills include shooting, passing, dribbling, blocking, stealing, defensive and offensive awareness, etc. These set of skills are game specific. They are very low at the start, but they increase fairly quickly. Now, each person has his own skill set. He may be good at shooting, but bad at dribbling. He would have to devote his time trying to improve dribbling. But it is the only way to increase your skill set. This is a slow process. You can keep on increasing your skills but you can't change your body overnite. So, we call it the long route to success. It is painfully slow, but needed nonetheless. What you CAN change overnite is your way of thinking. Read below.....
The next is the Basics. Basics are simply defined as how we use our skill set in a best possible way to improve or game. This is what I like to call shortcut to success. Let's face it. Basketball is not football. You can't just outrun your oppenent and score. Yes you can if you are faster, but what if you're not? If this is the case, you'll need to apply your brain. You'll be required to stick to your basics, know your limitations, don't try to do what you can't do atleast in a game. Don't try to outrun your opponent if he is faster. And what exactly are these basics?
These are the guidlines you need to follow to extract the maximum out of your skill set. Many times I have seen players just trying to shoot everytime the get the ball, no matter what the defence is doing. This is sheer stupidity. You'll need to read the defence, apply your mind, try to create a tough situation for the defence, pass to the open player, etc etc. I can't explain it better than the coaches themselves. So, I now present to you the best site for building your basics the right way : Visit this site. Read the Gym Rat Manual on the site.
The above comments are in no way originally mine. The language and the way of presentation is mine, but the ideas are taken from various websites. These sites provide you with knowledge on improving both, your skills as well as your basics. I will keep adding more useful stuff for basketball players. Do comment if you like the article. ¶ 12:56 AM 0 comments
1. Skills
2. Basics
Now, skills come first. You need atleast some basic set of skills with you even to start playing basketball. These include running, hand-eye coordination, jumping, quickness etc. They are not basketball specific; these are what you need in some quantities to start your game. No doubt, they will improve as you play. Other skills include shooting, passing, dribbling, blocking, stealing, defensive and offensive awareness, etc. These set of skills are game specific. They are very low at the start, but they increase fairly quickly. Now, each person has his own skill set. He may be good at shooting, but bad at dribbling. He would have to devote his time trying to improve dribbling. But it is the only way to increase your skill set. This is a slow process. You can keep on increasing your skills but you can't change your body overnite. So, we call it the long route to success. It is painfully slow, but needed nonetheless. What you CAN change overnite is your way of thinking. Read below.....
The next is the Basics. Basics are simply defined as how we use our skill set in a best possible way to improve or game. This is what I like to call shortcut to success. Let's face it. Basketball is not football. You can't just outrun your oppenent and score. Yes you can if you are faster, but what if you're not? If this is the case, you'll need to apply your brain. You'll be required to stick to your basics, know your limitations, don't try to do what you can't do atleast in a game. Don't try to outrun your opponent if he is faster. And what exactly are these basics?
These are the guidlines you need to follow to extract the maximum out of your skill set. Many times I have seen players just trying to shoot everytime the get the ball, no matter what the defence is doing. This is sheer stupidity. You'll need to read the defence, apply your mind, try to create a tough situation for the defence, pass to the open player, etc etc. I can't explain it better than the coaches themselves. So, I now present to you the best site for building your basics the right way : Visit this site. Read the Gym Rat Manual on the site.
The above comments are in no way originally mine. The language and the way of presentation is mine, but the ideas are taken from various websites. These sites provide you with knowledge on improving both, your skills as well as your basics. I will keep adding more useful stuff for basketball players. Do comment if you like the article. ¶ 12:56 AM 0 comments
Saturday, April 08, 2006
Becoming a good shooter
The basket ball shooter that is. Actually I'm really into basketball these days and I'm trying to learn some useful stuff. So I turn to the best website in the world - google.com. There are thousands of websites teaching how to shoot the basket ball into the hoop most effectively. As shooting is the essence of Basket Ball, it must be treated as one and maximum time should be given to it. So I sat down and read some stuff before I found a useful enough website. It explains shooting in a simple and efficient manner. It has helped me as my shooting percentage has increased tramendously. I'm presenting here the whole of the text on that site on a single page for you to read. For further reference, visit this site. So, here it goes---
The Fundamentals of Shooting
As impressionable kids, my friends and I used to imitate the shooting styles of the NBA greats and not-so-greats. We would try to guess who the other was trying to copy. Looking back on it now, we only copied the players with unusual shots. The players with good fundamental shots didn’t stand out as interesting enough to emulate. As long as basketball is played, there will be a number of shooting styles that seem to work for others. Every shooter does the best they can with the physical tools, experiences, and desire that brought them to the point they are at now. Copying someone else’s style is not the recommended route to success.
There are several fundamentals in shooting that will increase the chances of being successful. If mastered, the player has a great opportunity to reach their potential and enjoy the game more.
The body has some built-in mechanisms that, when taken advantage of, will help you perform physical acts more consistently.
Balance
When you are balanced you are able to create power and consistency in your movements. You may see players hit "off-balance shots" during games. It takes a lot of focus and some luck to make these shots. That is why people enjoy seeing them go in. There are reasons for taking off-balance shots, such as when time is running out or the player is confident a "risky" shot is better than an open shot by a teammate. Players do not make careers out of shooting this way. These shots should only be practiced after the fundamentals of shooting correctly have been mastered.
The key to basketball balance is having the player’s head centered between the feet. The feet should be shoulder width apart, with the shooting side foot (right foot for a right-hander) slightly ahead of the other foot. The heel of the shooting side foot should be even with the other toe. This gives the player forward/backward balance not achieved with a parallel stance.
The toes should be facing the target of the shot. One of the keys to a consistent, accurate shot is having the shoulders square or perpendicular to the flight of the ball. When the toes are facing the target, the shoulders will naturally line up.
Balance needs to be maintained during the shot and follow through. Movement towards the basket is encouraged for power except during a free throw. This movement is still considered being balanced. Changes in balance can throw off the rest of the mechanics.
Seeing the Target
The eyes are the beginning of the chain of events that occur in the body, to send the ball on its way to the basket. Imagine shooting without seeing. We have all tried it during practice. Free throws can be made without seeing because the brain has an imprint of the picture from so may practiced attempts at the same distance. Shooting would be very difficult for a blind person unless they received feedback in another from.
We use the eyes during games to focus in two ways. By soft focusing we are looking at a lot of area, but nothing specific. A player leading a fast break must see the defense, the basket, and teammates so as to make the right decision. When the player decides to shoot, hard focus must occur on the target. The eyes should remain on the target until the ball goes in. Do not follow the flight of the ball. By following the ball your eyes may leave he target too soon.
Shooting books and videos encourage several options for the non-banking target:
* the back of the rim
* the air space in the center of the hoop
* the net hook closest to the shooter
* the rim closest to the shooter
All of the choices will work as long as the shooter is hard focused and consistent. My preference is the area between the front and back rim. This is the area that you want the ball to fall into. Your shot will hit what you hard focus on. The rim is an easier focus point, however, the shooters need to make adjustments so that they do not actually hit their targets.
Shooting bank shots off the backboard is another option with positives and negatives. Banking is easiest when attempted at a 45-degree angle and closer than 15 feet from the basket. The target should be the upper near corner of the shooting square on the backboard.
Banking is an advantage when under physical pressure inside during a game. Bumping and pushing will make a soft swish more difficult. The bank shot allows more room for error.
Banking has disadvantages also. Banking works well without the need for arching the shot. Flat banks become the norm for young shooters. This creates a low arch habit that will be hard to break later. I would advise not teaching banking (except for lay ups) to beginning shooters. This can be taught later when the good arch habit is established.
The other problem with outside banking is that it can cause some confusion as to what the target should be. During the speed and pressure of a game the player needs targeting to be simple without question. Some players become excellent bank shooters with a lot of practice. I would rather see the time spent practicing the shots that will make up 90% of the attempts.
Holding the Ball
How your hands hold the ball will have a lot to do with your results. This is where we focus on the "one handed shot". Shooting is pushing the ball with one hand towards the basket. Even through we hold it with two hands, one pushes, and the other doesn’t.
When we were young it looked like players shot the ball two handed. It also made sense to us that two hands are stronger than one for generating power. Because we were wrong on both accounts, we developed bad shooting habits.
Place your strong hand on the ball with your fingers comfortably spread. Having your fingers too close together will cause a lack of side-to-side control. Spreading them too far will not allow the hand to relax. There should be equal spacing between fingers, with a slightly bigger gap to the thumb. The thumb should not separate too far and become a tee on the bottom of the ball. The thumb and little finger act as holders while the middle three fingers do the pushing.
Bring the ball up to the shooting position. Place the off hand (left hand for most) in the lower front corner of the ball.
Picture of front shot of shooter with proper hand position
This position will keep the ball in place on the shooting hand and prevent the off hand from helping to push the ball.
The Shooting Line
Getting and maintaining the shooting line is the most important step in getting side to side accuracy. Our bodies are made in a way that allows us to push a object in a straight line if:
1. the eyes choose a target
2. the shoulders are perpendicular to the path
3. the ball is in a line with the foot, knee, shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand on the shooting side of the body
When there is target, balance, one hand pushing, and a good shooting line, the ball goes in the right direction. To get a good shooting line start with the feet as discussed in the balance section. Hold the ball in front and above your shooting shoulder. Keep your shooting elbow under the ball. Check your ball position by noticing how it seems cover half of your face when in the correct position.
Some players have trouble getting in this position because their wrists are not as flexible as others. In this case it is more important to be comfortable than correct. If there are "born shooters", they are the ones with flexible wrists that allow the perfect shooting line. The knees should be comfortably bent in preparation for the shot.
The Shooting Motion
Once you are in position to shoot, start by bending at the knees in a down and up motion. This is like a waggle in golf. As you extend your legs upward, begin raising the ball. Your back and shoulders will extend upwards. The shooting hand will be almost parallel to the ground just before the release. Push your arm, wrist and fingers towards the basket. The snap of the wrist sends the ball towards the basket. Avoid a throwing motion. The forearm goes up rather than out to the basket. The ball should roll off the tips of the middle fingers as the wrist snaps down. Moderate backspin on the ball will result, creating a soft shot, that holds on the rim.
Arching the Shot
Almost all basketball shots have some sort of arc after the point of release. Since the hole in the basket faces up and the hoop is 10 feet off the ground, it stands to reason that the higher the arc, the better the chances of making the shot. The energy required to get the ball high enough to drop nearly straight down is to high to consider this an option. A flat angled shot takes less energy, but unless the rim is bent down and facing the shooter, this is not the way to go. A study conducted by Brooklyn College physicist, Peter Brancazio found that at 15 feet the optimum angle of release is about 50 degrees.
Most young shooters are shooting low arcing shots. All the mechanics of the shot may be correct, but if the arc is low, the percentage is going to be low. It is very unusual that someone shoots with too much arch. Increased shooting arch can be achieved by making sure that the shooting forearm goes up instead of out towards the basket, during the shooting motion.
Power Production
For new shooters, it is fairly easy to use good form close to the basket. As the distance gets greater, the shot tends to fall apart. Helping the student understand how to generate power without sacrificing form is essential.
Power comes from two sources: 1) momentum, 2) the extension of the joints during the shooting motion. Momentum is the strongest form of power. If a shooter falls away during a shot, it is very hard to get the distance needed comfortably. Leaning in towards the basket makes the shot easier. The legs are the strongest muscles in the body. Using them to generate power allows the upper body to relax and stay consistent. Shooting off the dribble or pivoting towards the basket before the shot will start forward momentum.
Another way to generate power is to allow the arms to begin lower during the shot. We teach starting with the ball up near the head. Sometimes the distance of the shot or the size of the shooter requires more power than is possible keeping the ball up. As long as the shooting line is maintained, the shot can be lowered as much as needed.
Picture of lower release
Free throw shooting can cause problems for young players. If the distance is not correctly adjusted for the size of the shooter, several things can happen. Lets say an 11 year old boy is in a youth game with a 15 foot free throw line. To avoid going over the line during the attempt, the boy has the following options:
1. Stand two feet behind the line, lower the ball in the shooting line, and use his legs and momentum to get the distance without going over.
2. Stand at the line and throw his mid section backward as a counter force. This puts a lot of strain on the upper body and will create a bad habit. Too many young players use this method.
The best solution is to have the free throw line moved up. If this isn’t possible, go with the first choice. At least the shooting technique will not be compromised.
The Teaching Position
As the teacher, you should position yourself under the basket. This allows you to watch the shooter from the best angle. There will be times when you will want to get a back or side view, but, generally, most of the coaching will take place from the front. This also allows you to get rebounds. It is important that the shooter has time after each shot to feel the result. Rebounding would add a distraction.
The Warm Up
Have the student warm up before each lesson by shooting mid-range shots (10-15 feet) while you rebound and pass back. Take mental notes during this five-minute period. Record your observations along with the date in a notebook.
For the first lesson, the student should shoot the way that is most comfortable. It is important that the real habits of the shooter are exposed.
Checklist of shooting fundamentals
1. Does the shooter square-up and maintain balance?
2. Is the ball sitting comfortably on the hand?
3. Is the shooter "in line" (ball, elbow, shoulder, knee, foot)?
4. Is the shooter using proper targeting? You will have to ask this question.
5. Is the ball being shot without off-hand interference?
6. Is the arch in the optimum range?
Look over your notes and re-visit this checklist before each lesson during the warm-up. Look for improvement in critical areas.
Five Lesson Build Up
This is the system I use when teaching shooting lessons. It has evolved over the last five years to produce improvement in over 200 students. Each of these lessons can be done in 30 minutes. The pre-test and post-test will add some time to the ends. These are useful if you want to measure the success of the student or the teacher.
Pre-testing
Have the student shoot the way that they currently are shooting before instruction. Use the following as your tests:
1. Longest Streak The student shoots alone at one basket for 5 minutes. All shots are between 10-14 feet. Start with the ball under the basket. Flip the ball with some back spin into the shooting range. Run to the ball, grab it, pivot to the basket, and shoot. Rebound the shot, flip it to another area and repeat. Keep track of your longest consecutive streak of made baskets. At the end of 5 minutes, your longest streak is your score.
2. Free Throws The student shoots 25 free throws with a rebounder. Record the number of made shots. The free throw line should be selected relative to the size of the shooter.
3. Lay Ups The student shoots 5 lay ups from the right side using the right hand to shoot. Next, the student shoots 5 lay ups from the left side using the left hand to shoot. Each lay up should be preceded by at least two dribbles with the corresponding hand (left on left side). Record the results separately.
Pre-Test Post-Test +/-
Longest Streak 5 Min
Free Throws 25
Right Lay Ups 5
Left Lay Ups 5
Lesson #1 Shot Build Up
Red Block
1. Start the lesson with the student standing on the first
lane block (about 4 feet at a 45-degree angle)
2.Help the student into the shooting position with the backboard as the target.
1.Start with the feet pointing at the target. Explain why this is important.
2.Next work on the "shot pocket". The ball should be placed comfortably on spread fingers.
Show how the shooting line goes through the right foot, knee, right elbow, shoulder hand
and ball.
3.At this point, only the right hand should be holding the ball. The student should be able to
balance the ball easily in the right hand. Use a smaller ball if this is not possible.
4.Have the student raise the ball so that a 90-degree angle exists between the right wrist
and the shoulder. Explain how this is a good starting position. Decreasing this angle a
little during the shot is natural. Too much will turn the shot into a throw.
5.Talk about the use of the knees during the shot. A
slight bend is good. Too much is not a good habit. As
legs tire during play, they will not be able to help as
much. It is better to learn to shoot with a little leg
bend. Do not let them remain locked.
6.Have the student shoot one handed at a spot on the
backboard that will let the ball bank in the basket.
Talk about how the wrist snaps down to propel the
ball. Have the student notice the backspin on the
ball. Explain how backspin makes shots "stick"
around the rim, giving them a greater chance to go
in.
7.Ask the student which is the last finger to touch the
ball during the release. I prefer the middle finger,
although many are more comfortable with the index
finger. The goal here should be to choose one way
and stick with it.
8.Continue until the student is consistently making the
shots with correct form. A lack of concentration
may cause some misses. Ask the student if they
could make the next one for a million dollars. Have
them shoot the shot. When they make it, which is
usually the case, explain how important
concentration is in consistent shooting.
9.Add the left-hand to the ball. Place the hand in the
front, lower left-hand corner of the ball.
12.As the student shoots, make sure that the shooting
line is maintained, and that the left hand is not
pushing the ball. Sometimes the left thumb will
sneak a little push. Get a good visual angle on the
thumb if you are not sure. Whenever you see side
spin, the left hand is getting involved.
Use the left-hand index finger in place of the hand if you are having trouble getting the left
hand out of the picture. By holding the ball in place with a single finger, the shooter is forced to
shoot without left-hand help. This is only a drill and should not be taught as the way to shoot.
Wing banks
1.After the red block shooting move the student out
to about 10 feet at a 45-degree angle to the basket.
2.Have the student continue to use the backboard for
a target. As more power is required, watch the
mechanics for change.
3.Discussion on how high to arch the ball should start
here. Explain how a ball dropped straight into a
basket has a better chance of going in than a shot
made in a straight line just over the rim. It is
important to emphasize good arch on all shots (bank
shots included).
4.Watch the eyes to make sure they remain fixed on
the target throughout the shot.
Straight Away
1. The student sets up about 10 feet directly in front of the basket. Talk about focus point options. Choices may be the front rim, the back rim, or just over the front rim. Banking from straight on is not an option. Help the student become consistent with focusing on a target. Occasionally ask, "Did you focus on your target?"
2. Shots from this range will begin to expose weaknesses in shooting line and arch. Compare the results of the shots with what you are seeing. If you see an elbow out problem, say "Your elbow was out that time. Focus on keeping it under the ball." When the elbow stays in line, be sure to say, "That was perfect, remember how that feels." The key to the feel method is that you help the student learn the feeling of shooting correctly. Considering they cannot see themselves, feeling is all they have.
Jump Shots
1. Teaching jump shots will depend on the size and progress of the student. Jumping and shooting takes more energy than a set shot or jumping while shooting.
2. Start at the red block with the student using a lead in right step for momentum. Exploding upward, the shooter releases just before the top of the jump. This provides more energy than waiting until the upward movement stops before shooting.
3. Increase the range by a couple of feet at a time watching to make sure the shooting line and arch are not compromised. At some point they will be, as the student searches for needed power. Convince the student that a jump shot is only effective from the range that it goes in easily.
Homework
Before lesson #2 the student needs to drill on what was worked on in lesson #1. Habits need to be changed. This can only happen through repetition. A week between lessons should be a minimum. The following is a sample homework assignment. These can be modified depending on the specific needs and desire of the student.
1. Longest streak (from pre-test) 3 times
2. Focus shooting (25 shots from 10 ft. for each) 3 times
? focus on shooting line
? focus on arch
? focus on target
? focus on jump shot (optional)
Review/Movement/Lay ups
This lesson starts off with a review of the homework assignment as well as a few minutes checking out the progress from lesson #1. Do not move on to anything new until the student is showing progress in the basics.
Shots Off Pass
1. The objective is to teach the player how to catch the ball and convert to the shot. Some players will already be good this. This is important because basketball is such a quick game combined with finesse. A fraction of a second lost fumbling with a pass can make a big difference in having an open shot or not.
2. Teach the student to catch the ball as they normally would catch a pass (two handed). Some may try to catch the ball with the shooting hand behind the ball. This is not good or necessary. Once the ball has been caught, the right hand remains exactly where it is. The left hand pivots in place until the ball is in place to shoot. This is very natural and efficient.
3. For the drill, you will start under the basket passing the ball to the student at the 12-foot area. The student will face you with the right foot behind the right, shoulder width apart. The hands are out and open for the pass. They will catch the ball, take a right lead step and shoot. Rebound the shot for them and continue until you feel they are comfortable with the transition.
4. Encourage speedy transition by rushing the shooter after making the pass to them. Watch to make sure that form isn’t being sacrificed for speed.
5. Move to the right wing and make passes to the student as they cut across the lane towards you. They will catch the ball, square up, and shoot. The goal here is to work on catch/shot transition as well as shooting on balance. The shooter has a tendency to drift in the direction that they are moving or turning causing misses to that side of the basket. Have the student focus on going up and in rather than drifting.
Straight dribble
1. There are two ways to approach a shot off the move. The first is the walk up approach. The player takes a left step followed by the lead in right step before the shot. The left step happens during the catch or last dribble to avoid a traveling call. This becomes your pivot foot.
2. The second method is called the jump stop. The player ends the dribble with a single leg hop and landing with both feet. From this position the player can go into a jump shot with good momentum.
3. Drill the player from the free throw line using both the walk-up and the jump stop. The player should take one dribble before going into the lead in. Once the footwork is comfortable, focus on how well the transition from dribble to shot is going.
Dribble Right
1. Beginning from the free throw line, have the student take one dribble at a 45-degree angle towards the corner. Use the walk in and square up to the basket. This is done by using a right-handed dribble at the same time as a left step. End the dribble and pivot on the left foot. Swing the right leg around until square with the basket. The right foot should be comfortably ahead of the left. Now shoot the ball.
2. Momentum to the right needs to be controlled and diverted upward and in. By sitting back during the planting of the left foot, the momentum will be switched from going right to the beginning of upward push.
3. Next, practice the jump stop with the same drill. There is a difference between going straight in and moving at an angle. During the hop, the student turns in the air, getting the feet pointed at the basket, before landing. Momentum is stopped to the right by planting the right foot firmly and converting the energy upward.
Dribble Left
Reverse the procedure for the dribble right. Right handed shooters will notice less momentum for drift. This happens because the need to square up cuts out some of the natural left momentum. This creates more consistent accuracy but less range.
Lay Ups
Shooting lay ups correctly comes easier to most players. Start off asking the student to demonstrate a lay up with their strong hand. If this is done well, have them try one on the other side with the weak hand. This is where most problems occur. If the lay ups from both sides are well done and you are convinced that this can be repeated, skip to #4 (one dribble, three steps).
1. One handed bank, no dribble- By returning to the block on the right side and duplicating the drill in Lesson #1 (Red block), you can emphasize to the student how the lay up is similar to the one handed shot. The shooting line is the same as well as the targeting. This is really helpful for work on the weakside. It is important that the student believe that a weakside shot is the same as the strongside. There is no footwork in this drill.
2. Add off hand and one step- Back the student to the second lane line. Establish the shooting line and place the off hand in a non helping position (very important on the weakside). When drilling on the right side, have the student take a left step towards the backboard target. Explode upward and outward while lifting the right knee. At the same time, extend the right arm towards the basket in the normal shooting motion. Release the offhand and continue extending until all that is left is a wrist snap.
3. Two steps- Same drill as above except that the student will start at the third lane line, and take two steps instead of one. Begin with a right step followed by a left step and jump. The ball should remain in the shooting line. The steps should be lively rather than mechanical or stiff. For the beginner it helps for you to say, "right, left, shoot" as they are taking the steps.
4. One dribble, three steps- Begin from the free throw line elbow on the right side. The student begins with a left step and a right handed dribble. The left foot and the ball should contact the ground at about the same time. During the second step, the student will catch the dribble and put it in position to shoot. The third step explodes upward and the concentration on the target begins. Say the words "left, right, left, shoot" as the player is moving towards the basket. This helps to keep the shooter on schedule for a smooth shot.
Emphasize long steps rather than short ones that do not cover ground. Most players can make a lay up easily from the elbow with one dribble.
5. 2/3 Dribbles- Have the student begin a lay up from the three point line. Two or 3 dribbles are needed for most players. This is a good test for footwork. The player will get to work on changing the step lengths to fit the distance.
Watch the targeting. The lay up shooter should not focus on the target before the last dribble. Court lines will help for location using soft focusing. Hard focusing the basket will cause the player to miss what is happening around the lane area. Changes are occurring as defenders and teammates move in and out of the lane. The shooter needs to be aware of everything before committing to the shot. Drill this soft focusing by standing on the left block with your closed hands in front of you. As the student moves towards completing the lay up, open your hands as if to receive a pass. When the player sees the open hands, the pass should be made immediately. You are simulating a teammate suddenly open for a better shot. Sometimes leave your hands closed. Success in this shows the student that soft focusing can help them see the court and make the lay up.
6. Contesting- You are now a defender on the lay up shooter. Run along side the driving player and pretend to block the shot. Assure the student that you will not touch them or block the ball. The student must focus on completing the shot despite the distraction. Do this from both sides until the desired results are reached.
Homework
1. Longest streak 3 times
2. Shots off pass (need partner) 3 times
? 10 shots right wing (12 feet)
? 10 shots middle (12 feet)
? 10 shots left (12 feet)
3. Shots off dribble 3 times
? 10 shots dribble right
? 10 shots dribble straight
? 10 shots dribble left
4. Lay ups 3 times
Repeat the lesson build up from the point of difficulty. Example: If the left-hand side footwork is causing problems, work on the left side beginning with the one step lay up. Climb the ladder in the order of the lesson, drilling enough to be comfortable.
Lesson #3 Review form/Free throws/3 pt. Shots
This lesson starts off with a review of the homework assignment as well as a few minutes checking out the progress from lessons #1 and #2. Do not move on to anything new until the student is showing progress in the basics.
Free throw routine
Ask the student to show you the free throw routine that they are using, if they have one. Use the rules below to check or set up a routine:
Official and unofficial rules for Free throw routines:
? Stay behind the line until the shot hits the rim.
? Shoot the ball within 10 seconds of receiving the ball.
? Repeat the same routine each time you shoot, including practice.
? Keep the routine simple so as not to fumble the ball.
? Include positive self talk
Free throw form
Ask the student how many free throws that they can make out of ten on a normal day. Give them a new goal that is higher. Assure the shooter that they will reach this goal often in the near future after your instruction. Confidence in you is helpful. Confidence in themselves is essential. The student should find free throws the easiest type of shot for developing new habits. This is also the best time for you to watch the progress.
Keys for Consistent Free Throws
? Get balanced at the line.
? Use a routine.
? Positive self-talk.
? Create the shooting line with the elbow under the ball.
? Sight the target.
? Bend slightly at the knees and shoot.
? Arch the ball high enough.
? Follow through.
? Jump if necessary. Do not sacrifice accuracy for power. It is better to practice closer to the basket or use a smaller ball.
Have the student shoot free throws while you compare the results with the mechanics. Continue until there is some consistency.
Three Point Shooting
As long as the three-point line is at 21 feet this will be an important part of the game. All players regardless of size must be sold on the value of perfecting this shot. It should be treated much like the free throw. The ability to be a threat from behind the line will open up opportunities for drives and inside passing. The key is getting power without losing accuracy.
Keys for Consistent Three Point Shooting
* Make sure that you are open enough to take this shot. It is difficult to shoot quickly and be accurate.
* Get on balance!
* Target the shot.
* Create the shooting line. The ball should drop low enough to get the distance needed. This is the key difference in three-point shooting. Accuracy must not be sacrificed for range. As long as the shooting line is intact the shot will be straight. Lower starting points help create more power. Example: Half-court shot attempts are not started with the ball placed over the shooter’s head. The ball usually begins somewhere around the waist.
* It is legal to jump over the three-point line.
* Release and follow through the same as other shots.
* Maintain a high shooting arch.
Watch the student from three-point range, noting the results and checking for the limiting factor. Example: The right-handed shooter is consistently missing left. Look for right elbow out. This may only occur during three point attempts as a means to create power. This remedy sacrifices accuracy for power. Have the student shoot several purely one handers (one-handers require the elbow to be under the ball for balance). Success here will show the student that it is not necessary to put the elbow out. Now have the shooter focus on elbow in attempts with the helper hand. Success sells.
During power shortages remind the student that all the joints from the ankles to the wrist propel the ball. Find which joints can be focused on to create more power. Most often the legs and the wrist can provide the answer.
Homework
1. Longest streak 3 times
2. 50 free throws 3 times
3. 25 three pointers 3 times
Lesson #4 Review form / Focus on habits
This lesson focuses on the habits that need to take hold to improve the basic shot. It may be a need for better targeting or maybe work on getting better balance. There may be several habits that need work. This is an important lesson for the future success of the changes. The student needs to know that you are not going to allow the negative habits to remain without a fight.
Homework
Set up specific drills that let the shooter focus on creating new habits. There are so many possible combinations that they cannot listed here (see Troubleshooting Guide). Create drills that can be monitored by others. Example: The student is using the thumb on the helping hand to slightly push the ball. This is reeking havoc on the accuracy. Have someone watch the thumb and inform the shooter whenever it is being used. This can be done in support of the student trying to self focus the thumb on their own. Repetition of the new shot will create a habit.
Lesson #5 Review form/Big picture/Check off
Start off with a review of the shot focusing on the new habits.
Put it all together (big picture)
We have tried to create a multi-faceted scoring machine piece by piece. Its time to show how it all works together. Give the ball to the student at the top of the key just behind the three-point line. You are the defender. Explain that the student should try to get the best shot available. If you give up the three by backing off, then the shooter takes it. If you play tight, shading to the student’s right, then the student drives for a left- handed lay up. If while in pursuit of a driving student, you happen to cut off the line to the basket, the student should pull up for the quick jump shot. Three options, all reactions to what the defense is giving. At camps I call this the Michael Jordan series because his game is based on taking what is available.
Post-test
5 min longest streak
25 free throws
10 lay ups (5 each side)
Hopefully there will be some improvement to excite the student to continue the new changes. If not, then the student is still in the "taking a step back to go forward stage". This is positive in that the student is sacrificing immediate success for the big picture. The worst thing that can happen is that the student doesn’t change at all and gets results similar to the pre test. If the student is still motivated to change explain how difficult it is to create new habits and continue to work on selling the changes that will get improvement.
Check off the new "shooting coach"
Let the student tell you everything they know about the correct shooting form. Start with the stance and work up through the release. Getting better at shooting is an on going process. Your ultimate goal is to help your student become their own personal shooting coach.
Troubleshooting Guide
After watching a player shoot for awhile it is easy to predict the result of the shot by watching the release. This is the same principal the shooter uses to detect errors through "feel". There are many reasons a shooter misses shots but some occur more often than others. The following takes some of the common problems and provides remedies:
Result Problem Remedy
Misses consistently to the left. Elbow may be out of line to the outside. Have shooter focus on the shooting line. Provide feedback until the shooter can set up correctly.
Feet may be pointed left of the target. Ball follows shoulders. Shoulders follow feet. Do drills that focus the shooters attention on the square up.
Misses consistently to the right. Elbow may be out of line to the inside. Have shooter focus on the shooting line. Provide feedback until the shooter can set up correctly.
Feet may be pointed right of the target. Ball follows shoulders. Shoulders follow feet. Do drills that focus the shooters attention on the square up.
Misses are usually side to side. No dominate side. Look for left hand interference. May be slight. Have the shooter try using the index finger on the left hand as the only part of the support hand touching the ball. Do this until the shooter is confident that the left hand can hold the ball without pushing.
Result Problem Remedy
Misses are straight but are hitting the front or back rim. Check the arch. Probably too low Have the shooter shoot with more arch than they feel is comfortable. When they are shooting at the right arch, let them know and try to get them to learn the feel of the new arch.
Misses even though shooting line is intact. Check for balance. Does the shooter lean during release or need to regain balance after follow through? Have shooter focus on good base and balanced upward, inward movement. Drill until shooter can identify and control.
Targeting. Ask the shooter about their target for each shot. Watch the eyes. Are they fixed on the target or do they follow the ball? Help the shooter develop targeting habits by frequently asking them about target. Create a drill where the shooter only focuses on target while shooting.
Hand/ball contact may need to be checked. Make sure fingers are spread and that the ball rests in the hand instead of being on finger tips. Have shooter focus on last release point. Should feel contact with middle or index finger, whichever is the chosen release finger. ¶ 12:33 PM 0 comments
The Fundamentals of Shooting
As impressionable kids, my friends and I used to imitate the shooting styles of the NBA greats and not-so-greats. We would try to guess who the other was trying to copy. Looking back on it now, we only copied the players with unusual shots. The players with good fundamental shots didn’t stand out as interesting enough to emulate. As long as basketball is played, there will be a number of shooting styles that seem to work for others. Every shooter does the best they can with the physical tools, experiences, and desire that brought them to the point they are at now. Copying someone else’s style is not the recommended route to success.
There are several fundamentals in shooting that will increase the chances of being successful. If mastered, the player has a great opportunity to reach their potential and enjoy the game more.
The body has some built-in mechanisms that, when taken advantage of, will help you perform physical acts more consistently.
Balance
When you are balanced you are able to create power and consistency in your movements. You may see players hit "off-balance shots" during games. It takes a lot of focus and some luck to make these shots. That is why people enjoy seeing them go in. There are reasons for taking off-balance shots, such as when time is running out or the player is confident a "risky" shot is better than an open shot by a teammate. Players do not make careers out of shooting this way. These shots should only be practiced after the fundamentals of shooting correctly have been mastered.
The key to basketball balance is having the player’s head centered between the feet. The feet should be shoulder width apart, with the shooting side foot (right foot for a right-hander) slightly ahead of the other foot. The heel of the shooting side foot should be even with the other toe. This gives the player forward/backward balance not achieved with a parallel stance.
The toes should be facing the target of the shot. One of the keys to a consistent, accurate shot is having the shoulders square or perpendicular to the flight of the ball. When the toes are facing the target, the shoulders will naturally line up.
Balance needs to be maintained during the shot and follow through. Movement towards the basket is encouraged for power except during a free throw. This movement is still considered being balanced. Changes in balance can throw off the rest of the mechanics.
Seeing the Target
The eyes are the beginning of the chain of events that occur in the body, to send the ball on its way to the basket. Imagine shooting without seeing. We have all tried it during practice. Free throws can be made without seeing because the brain has an imprint of the picture from so may practiced attempts at the same distance. Shooting would be very difficult for a blind person unless they received feedback in another from.
We use the eyes during games to focus in two ways. By soft focusing we are looking at a lot of area, but nothing specific. A player leading a fast break must see the defense, the basket, and teammates so as to make the right decision. When the player decides to shoot, hard focus must occur on the target. The eyes should remain on the target until the ball goes in. Do not follow the flight of the ball. By following the ball your eyes may leave he target too soon.
Shooting books and videos encourage several options for the non-banking target:
* the back of the rim
* the air space in the center of the hoop
* the net hook closest to the shooter
* the rim closest to the shooter
All of the choices will work as long as the shooter is hard focused and consistent. My preference is the area between the front and back rim. This is the area that you want the ball to fall into. Your shot will hit what you hard focus on. The rim is an easier focus point, however, the shooters need to make adjustments so that they do not actually hit their targets.
Shooting bank shots off the backboard is another option with positives and negatives. Banking is easiest when attempted at a 45-degree angle and closer than 15 feet from the basket. The target should be the upper near corner of the shooting square on the backboard.
Banking is an advantage when under physical pressure inside during a game. Bumping and pushing will make a soft swish more difficult. The bank shot allows more room for error.
Banking has disadvantages also. Banking works well without the need for arching the shot. Flat banks become the norm for young shooters. This creates a low arch habit that will be hard to break later. I would advise not teaching banking (except for lay ups) to beginning shooters. This can be taught later when the good arch habit is established.
The other problem with outside banking is that it can cause some confusion as to what the target should be. During the speed and pressure of a game the player needs targeting to be simple without question. Some players become excellent bank shooters with a lot of practice. I would rather see the time spent practicing the shots that will make up 90% of the attempts.
Holding the Ball
How your hands hold the ball will have a lot to do with your results. This is where we focus on the "one handed shot". Shooting is pushing the ball with one hand towards the basket. Even through we hold it with two hands, one pushes, and the other doesn’t.
When we were young it looked like players shot the ball two handed. It also made sense to us that two hands are stronger than one for generating power. Because we were wrong on both accounts, we developed bad shooting habits.
Place your strong hand on the ball with your fingers comfortably spread. Having your fingers too close together will cause a lack of side-to-side control. Spreading them too far will not allow the hand to relax. There should be equal spacing between fingers, with a slightly bigger gap to the thumb. The thumb should not separate too far and become a tee on the bottom of the ball. The thumb and little finger act as holders while the middle three fingers do the pushing.
Bring the ball up to the shooting position. Place the off hand (left hand for most) in the lower front corner of the ball.
Picture of front shot of shooter with proper hand position
This position will keep the ball in place on the shooting hand and prevent the off hand from helping to push the ball.
The Shooting Line
Getting and maintaining the shooting line is the most important step in getting side to side accuracy. Our bodies are made in a way that allows us to push a object in a straight line if:
1. the eyes choose a target
2. the shoulders are perpendicular to the path
3. the ball is in a line with the foot, knee, shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand on the shooting side of the body
When there is target, balance, one hand pushing, and a good shooting line, the ball goes in the right direction. To get a good shooting line start with the feet as discussed in the balance section. Hold the ball in front and above your shooting shoulder. Keep your shooting elbow under the ball. Check your ball position by noticing how it seems cover half of your face when in the correct position.
Some players have trouble getting in this position because their wrists are not as flexible as others. In this case it is more important to be comfortable than correct. If there are "born shooters", they are the ones with flexible wrists that allow the perfect shooting line. The knees should be comfortably bent in preparation for the shot.
The Shooting Motion
Once you are in position to shoot, start by bending at the knees in a down and up motion. This is like a waggle in golf. As you extend your legs upward, begin raising the ball. Your back and shoulders will extend upwards. The shooting hand will be almost parallel to the ground just before the release. Push your arm, wrist and fingers towards the basket. The snap of the wrist sends the ball towards the basket. Avoid a throwing motion. The forearm goes up rather than out to the basket. The ball should roll off the tips of the middle fingers as the wrist snaps down. Moderate backspin on the ball will result, creating a soft shot, that holds on the rim.
Arching the Shot
Almost all basketball shots have some sort of arc after the point of release. Since the hole in the basket faces up and the hoop is 10 feet off the ground, it stands to reason that the higher the arc, the better the chances of making the shot. The energy required to get the ball high enough to drop nearly straight down is to high to consider this an option. A flat angled shot takes less energy, but unless the rim is bent down and facing the shooter, this is not the way to go. A study conducted by Brooklyn College physicist, Peter Brancazio found that at 15 feet the optimum angle of release is about 50 degrees.
Most young shooters are shooting low arcing shots. All the mechanics of the shot may be correct, but if the arc is low, the percentage is going to be low. It is very unusual that someone shoots with too much arch. Increased shooting arch can be achieved by making sure that the shooting forearm goes up instead of out towards the basket, during the shooting motion.
Power Production
For new shooters, it is fairly easy to use good form close to the basket. As the distance gets greater, the shot tends to fall apart. Helping the student understand how to generate power without sacrificing form is essential.
Power comes from two sources: 1) momentum, 2) the extension of the joints during the shooting motion. Momentum is the strongest form of power. If a shooter falls away during a shot, it is very hard to get the distance needed comfortably. Leaning in towards the basket makes the shot easier. The legs are the strongest muscles in the body. Using them to generate power allows the upper body to relax and stay consistent. Shooting off the dribble or pivoting towards the basket before the shot will start forward momentum.
Another way to generate power is to allow the arms to begin lower during the shot. We teach starting with the ball up near the head. Sometimes the distance of the shot or the size of the shooter requires more power than is possible keeping the ball up. As long as the shooting line is maintained, the shot can be lowered as much as needed.
Picture of lower release
Free throw shooting can cause problems for young players. If the distance is not correctly adjusted for the size of the shooter, several things can happen. Lets say an 11 year old boy is in a youth game with a 15 foot free throw line. To avoid going over the line during the attempt, the boy has the following options:
1. Stand two feet behind the line, lower the ball in the shooting line, and use his legs and momentum to get the distance without going over.
2. Stand at the line and throw his mid section backward as a counter force. This puts a lot of strain on the upper body and will create a bad habit. Too many young players use this method.
The best solution is to have the free throw line moved up. If this isn’t possible, go with the first choice. At least the shooting technique will not be compromised.
The Teaching Position
As the teacher, you should position yourself under the basket. This allows you to watch the shooter from the best angle. There will be times when you will want to get a back or side view, but, generally, most of the coaching will take place from the front. This also allows you to get rebounds. It is important that the shooter has time after each shot to feel the result. Rebounding would add a distraction.
The Warm Up
Have the student warm up before each lesson by shooting mid-range shots (10-15 feet) while you rebound and pass back. Take mental notes during this five-minute period. Record your observations along with the date in a notebook.
For the first lesson, the student should shoot the way that is most comfortable. It is important that the real habits of the shooter are exposed.
Checklist of shooting fundamentals
1. Does the shooter square-up and maintain balance?
2. Is the ball sitting comfortably on the hand?
3. Is the shooter "in line" (ball, elbow, shoulder, knee, foot)?
4. Is the shooter using proper targeting? You will have to ask this question.
5. Is the ball being shot without off-hand interference?
6. Is the arch in the optimum range?
Look over your notes and re-visit this checklist before each lesson during the warm-up. Look for improvement in critical areas.
Five Lesson Build Up
This is the system I use when teaching shooting lessons. It has evolved over the last five years to produce improvement in over 200 students. Each of these lessons can be done in 30 minutes. The pre-test and post-test will add some time to the ends. These are useful if you want to measure the success of the student or the teacher.
Pre-testing
Have the student shoot the way that they currently are shooting before instruction. Use the following as your tests:
1. Longest Streak The student shoots alone at one basket for 5 minutes. All shots are between 10-14 feet. Start with the ball under the basket. Flip the ball with some back spin into the shooting range. Run to the ball, grab it, pivot to the basket, and shoot. Rebound the shot, flip it to another area and repeat. Keep track of your longest consecutive streak of made baskets. At the end of 5 minutes, your longest streak is your score.
2. Free Throws The student shoots 25 free throws with a rebounder. Record the number of made shots. The free throw line should be selected relative to the size of the shooter.
3. Lay Ups The student shoots 5 lay ups from the right side using the right hand to shoot. Next, the student shoots 5 lay ups from the left side using the left hand to shoot. Each lay up should be preceded by at least two dribbles with the corresponding hand (left on left side). Record the results separately.
Pre-Test Post-Test +/-
Longest Streak 5 Min
Free Throws 25
Right Lay Ups 5
Left Lay Ups 5
Lesson #1 Shot Build Up
Red Block
1. Start the lesson with the student standing on the first
lane block (about 4 feet at a 45-degree angle)
2.Help the student into the shooting position with the backboard as the target.
1.Start with the feet pointing at the target. Explain why this is important.
2.Next work on the "shot pocket". The ball should be placed comfortably on spread fingers.
Show how the shooting line goes through the right foot, knee, right elbow, shoulder hand
and ball.
3.At this point, only the right hand should be holding the ball. The student should be able to
balance the ball easily in the right hand. Use a smaller ball if this is not possible.
4.Have the student raise the ball so that a 90-degree angle exists between the right wrist
and the shoulder. Explain how this is a good starting position. Decreasing this angle a
little during the shot is natural. Too much will turn the shot into a throw.
5.Talk about the use of the knees during the shot. A
slight bend is good. Too much is not a good habit. As
legs tire during play, they will not be able to help as
much. It is better to learn to shoot with a little leg
bend. Do not let them remain locked.
6.Have the student shoot one handed at a spot on the
backboard that will let the ball bank in the basket.
Talk about how the wrist snaps down to propel the
ball. Have the student notice the backspin on the
ball. Explain how backspin makes shots "stick"
around the rim, giving them a greater chance to go
in.
7.Ask the student which is the last finger to touch the
ball during the release. I prefer the middle finger,
although many are more comfortable with the index
finger. The goal here should be to choose one way
and stick with it.
8.Continue until the student is consistently making the
shots with correct form. A lack of concentration
may cause some misses. Ask the student if they
could make the next one for a million dollars. Have
them shoot the shot. When they make it, which is
usually the case, explain how important
concentration is in consistent shooting.
9.Add the left-hand to the ball. Place the hand in the
front, lower left-hand corner of the ball.
12.As the student shoots, make sure that the shooting
line is maintained, and that the left hand is not
pushing the ball. Sometimes the left thumb will
sneak a little push. Get a good visual angle on the
thumb if you are not sure. Whenever you see side
spin, the left hand is getting involved.
Use the left-hand index finger in place of the hand if you are having trouble getting the left
hand out of the picture. By holding the ball in place with a single finger, the shooter is forced to
shoot without left-hand help. This is only a drill and should not be taught as the way to shoot.
Wing banks
1.After the red block shooting move the student out
to about 10 feet at a 45-degree angle to the basket.
2.Have the student continue to use the backboard for
a target. As more power is required, watch the
mechanics for change.
3.Discussion on how high to arch the ball should start
here. Explain how a ball dropped straight into a
basket has a better chance of going in than a shot
made in a straight line just over the rim. It is
important to emphasize good arch on all shots (bank
shots included).
4.Watch the eyes to make sure they remain fixed on
the target throughout the shot.
Straight Away
1. The student sets up about 10 feet directly in front of the basket. Talk about focus point options. Choices may be the front rim, the back rim, or just over the front rim. Banking from straight on is not an option. Help the student become consistent with focusing on a target. Occasionally ask, "Did you focus on your target?"
2. Shots from this range will begin to expose weaknesses in shooting line and arch. Compare the results of the shots with what you are seeing. If you see an elbow out problem, say "Your elbow was out that time. Focus on keeping it under the ball." When the elbow stays in line, be sure to say, "That was perfect, remember how that feels." The key to the feel method is that you help the student learn the feeling of shooting correctly. Considering they cannot see themselves, feeling is all they have.
Jump Shots
1. Teaching jump shots will depend on the size and progress of the student. Jumping and shooting takes more energy than a set shot or jumping while shooting.
2. Start at the red block with the student using a lead in right step for momentum. Exploding upward, the shooter releases just before the top of the jump. This provides more energy than waiting until the upward movement stops before shooting.
3. Increase the range by a couple of feet at a time watching to make sure the shooting line and arch are not compromised. At some point they will be, as the student searches for needed power. Convince the student that a jump shot is only effective from the range that it goes in easily.
Homework
Before lesson #2 the student needs to drill on what was worked on in lesson #1. Habits need to be changed. This can only happen through repetition. A week between lessons should be a minimum. The following is a sample homework assignment. These can be modified depending on the specific needs and desire of the student.
1. Longest streak (from pre-test) 3 times
2. Focus shooting (25 shots from 10 ft. for each) 3 times
? focus on shooting line
? focus on arch
? focus on target
? focus on jump shot (optional)
Review/Movement/Lay ups
This lesson starts off with a review of the homework assignment as well as a few minutes checking out the progress from lesson #1. Do not move on to anything new until the student is showing progress in the basics.
Shots Off Pass
1. The objective is to teach the player how to catch the ball and convert to the shot. Some players will already be good this. This is important because basketball is such a quick game combined with finesse. A fraction of a second lost fumbling with a pass can make a big difference in having an open shot or not.
2. Teach the student to catch the ball as they normally would catch a pass (two handed). Some may try to catch the ball with the shooting hand behind the ball. This is not good or necessary. Once the ball has been caught, the right hand remains exactly where it is. The left hand pivots in place until the ball is in place to shoot. This is very natural and efficient.
3. For the drill, you will start under the basket passing the ball to the student at the 12-foot area. The student will face you with the right foot behind the right, shoulder width apart. The hands are out and open for the pass. They will catch the ball, take a right lead step and shoot. Rebound the shot for them and continue until you feel they are comfortable with the transition.
4. Encourage speedy transition by rushing the shooter after making the pass to them. Watch to make sure that form isn’t being sacrificed for speed.
5. Move to the right wing and make passes to the student as they cut across the lane towards you. They will catch the ball, square up, and shoot. The goal here is to work on catch/shot transition as well as shooting on balance. The shooter has a tendency to drift in the direction that they are moving or turning causing misses to that side of the basket. Have the student focus on going up and in rather than drifting.
Straight dribble
1. There are two ways to approach a shot off the move. The first is the walk up approach. The player takes a left step followed by the lead in right step before the shot. The left step happens during the catch or last dribble to avoid a traveling call. This becomes your pivot foot.
2. The second method is called the jump stop. The player ends the dribble with a single leg hop and landing with both feet. From this position the player can go into a jump shot with good momentum.
3. Drill the player from the free throw line using both the walk-up and the jump stop. The player should take one dribble before going into the lead in. Once the footwork is comfortable, focus on how well the transition from dribble to shot is going.
Dribble Right
1. Beginning from the free throw line, have the student take one dribble at a 45-degree angle towards the corner. Use the walk in and square up to the basket. This is done by using a right-handed dribble at the same time as a left step. End the dribble and pivot on the left foot. Swing the right leg around until square with the basket. The right foot should be comfortably ahead of the left. Now shoot the ball.
2. Momentum to the right needs to be controlled and diverted upward and in. By sitting back during the planting of the left foot, the momentum will be switched from going right to the beginning of upward push.
3. Next, practice the jump stop with the same drill. There is a difference between going straight in and moving at an angle. During the hop, the student turns in the air, getting the feet pointed at the basket, before landing. Momentum is stopped to the right by planting the right foot firmly and converting the energy upward.
Dribble Left
Reverse the procedure for the dribble right. Right handed shooters will notice less momentum for drift. This happens because the need to square up cuts out some of the natural left momentum. This creates more consistent accuracy but less range.
Lay Ups
Shooting lay ups correctly comes easier to most players. Start off asking the student to demonstrate a lay up with their strong hand. If this is done well, have them try one on the other side with the weak hand. This is where most problems occur. If the lay ups from both sides are well done and you are convinced that this can be repeated, skip to #4 (one dribble, three steps).
1. One handed bank, no dribble- By returning to the block on the right side and duplicating the drill in Lesson #1 (Red block), you can emphasize to the student how the lay up is similar to the one handed shot. The shooting line is the same as well as the targeting. This is really helpful for work on the weakside. It is important that the student believe that a weakside shot is the same as the strongside. There is no footwork in this drill.
2. Add off hand and one step- Back the student to the second lane line. Establish the shooting line and place the off hand in a non helping position (very important on the weakside). When drilling on the right side, have the student take a left step towards the backboard target. Explode upward and outward while lifting the right knee. At the same time, extend the right arm towards the basket in the normal shooting motion. Release the offhand and continue extending until all that is left is a wrist snap.
3. Two steps- Same drill as above except that the student will start at the third lane line, and take two steps instead of one. Begin with a right step followed by a left step and jump. The ball should remain in the shooting line. The steps should be lively rather than mechanical or stiff. For the beginner it helps for you to say, "right, left, shoot" as they are taking the steps.
4. One dribble, three steps- Begin from the free throw line elbow on the right side. The student begins with a left step and a right handed dribble. The left foot and the ball should contact the ground at about the same time. During the second step, the student will catch the dribble and put it in position to shoot. The third step explodes upward and the concentration on the target begins. Say the words "left, right, left, shoot" as the player is moving towards the basket. This helps to keep the shooter on schedule for a smooth shot.
Emphasize long steps rather than short ones that do not cover ground. Most players can make a lay up easily from the elbow with one dribble.
5. 2/3 Dribbles- Have the student begin a lay up from the three point line. Two or 3 dribbles are needed for most players. This is a good test for footwork. The player will get to work on changing the step lengths to fit the distance.
Watch the targeting. The lay up shooter should not focus on the target before the last dribble. Court lines will help for location using soft focusing. Hard focusing the basket will cause the player to miss what is happening around the lane area. Changes are occurring as defenders and teammates move in and out of the lane. The shooter needs to be aware of everything before committing to the shot. Drill this soft focusing by standing on the left block with your closed hands in front of you. As the student moves towards completing the lay up, open your hands as if to receive a pass. When the player sees the open hands, the pass should be made immediately. You are simulating a teammate suddenly open for a better shot. Sometimes leave your hands closed. Success in this shows the student that soft focusing can help them see the court and make the lay up.
6. Contesting- You are now a defender on the lay up shooter. Run along side the driving player and pretend to block the shot. Assure the student that you will not touch them or block the ball. The student must focus on completing the shot despite the distraction. Do this from both sides until the desired results are reached.
Homework
1. Longest streak 3 times
2. Shots off pass (need partner) 3 times
? 10 shots right wing (12 feet)
? 10 shots middle (12 feet)
? 10 shots left (12 feet)
3. Shots off dribble 3 times
? 10 shots dribble right
? 10 shots dribble straight
? 10 shots dribble left
4. Lay ups 3 times
Repeat the lesson build up from the point of difficulty. Example: If the left-hand side footwork is causing problems, work on the left side beginning with the one step lay up. Climb the ladder in the order of the lesson, drilling enough to be comfortable.
Lesson #3 Review form/Free throws/3 pt. Shots
This lesson starts off with a review of the homework assignment as well as a few minutes checking out the progress from lessons #1 and #2. Do not move on to anything new until the student is showing progress in the basics.
Free throw routine
Ask the student to show you the free throw routine that they are using, if they have one. Use the rules below to check or set up a routine:
Official and unofficial rules for Free throw routines:
? Stay behind the line until the shot hits the rim.
? Shoot the ball within 10 seconds of receiving the ball.
? Repeat the same routine each time you shoot, including practice.
? Keep the routine simple so as not to fumble the ball.
? Include positive self talk
Free throw form
Ask the student how many free throws that they can make out of ten on a normal day. Give them a new goal that is higher. Assure the shooter that they will reach this goal often in the near future after your instruction. Confidence in you is helpful. Confidence in themselves is essential. The student should find free throws the easiest type of shot for developing new habits. This is also the best time for you to watch the progress.
Keys for Consistent Free Throws
? Get balanced at the line.
? Use a routine.
? Positive self-talk.
? Create the shooting line with the elbow under the ball.
? Sight the target.
? Bend slightly at the knees and shoot.
? Arch the ball high enough.
? Follow through.
? Jump if necessary. Do not sacrifice accuracy for power. It is better to practice closer to the basket or use a smaller ball.
Have the student shoot free throws while you compare the results with the mechanics. Continue until there is some consistency.
Three Point Shooting
As long as the three-point line is at 21 feet this will be an important part of the game. All players regardless of size must be sold on the value of perfecting this shot. It should be treated much like the free throw. The ability to be a threat from behind the line will open up opportunities for drives and inside passing. The key is getting power without losing accuracy.
Keys for Consistent Three Point Shooting
* Make sure that you are open enough to take this shot. It is difficult to shoot quickly and be accurate.
* Get on balance!
* Target the shot.
* Create the shooting line. The ball should drop low enough to get the distance needed. This is the key difference in three-point shooting. Accuracy must not be sacrificed for range. As long as the shooting line is intact the shot will be straight. Lower starting points help create more power. Example: Half-court shot attempts are not started with the ball placed over the shooter’s head. The ball usually begins somewhere around the waist.
* It is legal to jump over the three-point line.
* Release and follow through the same as other shots.
* Maintain a high shooting arch.
Watch the student from three-point range, noting the results and checking for the limiting factor. Example: The right-handed shooter is consistently missing left. Look for right elbow out. This may only occur during three point attempts as a means to create power. This remedy sacrifices accuracy for power. Have the student shoot several purely one handers (one-handers require the elbow to be under the ball for balance). Success here will show the student that it is not necessary to put the elbow out. Now have the shooter focus on elbow in attempts with the helper hand. Success sells.
During power shortages remind the student that all the joints from the ankles to the wrist propel the ball. Find which joints can be focused on to create more power. Most often the legs and the wrist can provide the answer.
Homework
1. Longest streak 3 times
2. 50 free throws 3 times
3. 25 three pointers 3 times
Lesson #4 Review form / Focus on habits
This lesson focuses on the habits that need to take hold to improve the basic shot. It may be a need for better targeting or maybe work on getting better balance. There may be several habits that need work. This is an important lesson for the future success of the changes. The student needs to know that you are not going to allow the negative habits to remain without a fight.
Homework
Set up specific drills that let the shooter focus on creating new habits. There are so many possible combinations that they cannot listed here (see Troubleshooting Guide). Create drills that can be monitored by others. Example: The student is using the thumb on the helping hand to slightly push the ball. This is reeking havoc on the accuracy. Have someone watch the thumb and inform the shooter whenever it is being used. This can be done in support of the student trying to self focus the thumb on their own. Repetition of the new shot will create a habit.
Lesson #5 Review form/Big picture/Check off
Start off with a review of the shot focusing on the new habits.
Put it all together (big picture)
We have tried to create a multi-faceted scoring machine piece by piece. Its time to show how it all works together. Give the ball to the student at the top of the key just behind the three-point line. You are the defender. Explain that the student should try to get the best shot available. If you give up the three by backing off, then the shooter takes it. If you play tight, shading to the student’s right, then the student drives for a left- handed lay up. If while in pursuit of a driving student, you happen to cut off the line to the basket, the student should pull up for the quick jump shot. Three options, all reactions to what the defense is giving. At camps I call this the Michael Jordan series because his game is based on taking what is available.
Post-test
5 min longest streak
25 free throws
10 lay ups (5 each side)
Hopefully there will be some improvement to excite the student to continue the new changes. If not, then the student is still in the "taking a step back to go forward stage". This is positive in that the student is sacrificing immediate success for the big picture. The worst thing that can happen is that the student doesn’t change at all and gets results similar to the pre test. If the student is still motivated to change explain how difficult it is to create new habits and continue to work on selling the changes that will get improvement.
Check off the new "shooting coach"
Let the student tell you everything they know about the correct shooting form. Start with the stance and work up through the release. Getting better at shooting is an on going process. Your ultimate goal is to help your student become their own personal shooting coach.
Troubleshooting Guide
After watching a player shoot for awhile it is easy to predict the result of the shot by watching the release. This is the same principal the shooter uses to detect errors through "feel". There are many reasons a shooter misses shots but some occur more often than others. The following takes some of the common problems and provides remedies:
Result Problem Remedy
Misses consistently to the left. Elbow may be out of line to the outside. Have shooter focus on the shooting line. Provide feedback until the shooter can set up correctly.
Feet may be pointed left of the target. Ball follows shoulders. Shoulders follow feet. Do drills that focus the shooters attention on the square up.
Misses consistently to the right. Elbow may be out of line to the inside. Have shooter focus on the shooting line. Provide feedback until the shooter can set up correctly.
Feet may be pointed right of the target. Ball follows shoulders. Shoulders follow feet. Do drills that focus the shooters attention on the square up.
Misses are usually side to side. No dominate side. Look for left hand interference. May be slight. Have the shooter try using the index finger on the left hand as the only part of the support hand touching the ball. Do this until the shooter is confident that the left hand can hold the ball without pushing.
Result Problem Remedy
Misses are straight but are hitting the front or back rim. Check the arch. Probably too low Have the shooter shoot with more arch than they feel is comfortable. When they are shooting at the right arch, let them know and try to get them to learn the feel of the new arch.
Misses even though shooting line is intact. Check for balance. Does the shooter lean during release or need to regain balance after follow through? Have shooter focus on good base and balanced upward, inward movement. Drill until shooter can identify and control.
Targeting. Ask the shooter about their target for each shot. Watch the eyes. Are they fixed on the target or do they follow the ball? Help the shooter develop targeting habits by frequently asking them about target. Create a drill where the shooter only focuses on target while shooting.
Hand/ball contact may need to be checked. Make sure fingers are spread and that the ball rests in the hand instead of being on finger tips. Have shooter focus on last release point. Should feel contact with middle or index finger, whichever is the chosen release finger. ¶ 12:33 PM 0 comments
Friday, March 24, 2006
One Liners; for your speech.
Well, I have just got free after my exams and I am left with nothing to do yet again. So what should I do this weekend? The worst possible thing to do just after exams is to read books. And I did exactly that and stumbled upon a masterpiece: 'How to use The Best One Liners in your speeches' by Mitch Murray. Well, to explain breifly, this book contains hundereds of funny one liners. Some of them are given below. Do buy this book if you like them. Believe me, you'll find each and every one to be as funny as these ones:
Bad News
It's easy to say business is improving... Saying it with a straight face is a problem.
These figures prove that not all the sufferings are in the third world.
This year, in time for our AGM, we've decided to have our Annual Report written by a professional... Stephen King.
Revenge
Ladies and gentlemen, I've always believed that if you can't say something good about someone, you're probably talking about Stan Pearce.
He's an only child...his parents decided to stop while they still outnumbered him.
He's still his own worst enemy, but the competition's getting stiffer all the time.
If you lend him money, you'll never see him again... and it's worth it!
Booze 'n Boozers
One of the best things you can do is to drink a lot when you get old. That way, every time you go to kick the bucket, you miss.
Most of the time, he doesn't drink anything stronger than pop...mind you, Pop'll drink anything!
I'm perfectly alright. You're the one who is spinning around.
For those who are interested, there's a new support group: "Teetotalers Anonymous". If you feel like going on the wagon, you call a Freephone number and two drunks come over and try to talk you out of it.
Bores
Due to popular demand Sidney Stafford will not be making a speech tonight.
When he's in full flow, all I do is say 'Wow!' every now and then...it's not very clever, but it fits a yawn perfectly.
He'd make a great Governor of the Bank of England...whenever he speaks, everyone's interest rate drops.
OK, so his mind wanders a bit, but be fair...wouldn't you if you were in that body?
Competitors
Do you know how many people work there?...about one in four!
Their logo ought to be rhinoceros...it's thick-skinned, short-sighted and charges a lot.
Old Employees
He's worth a fortune...he must be...he's got silver in his hair, gold in his teeth, rare stones in his kidney, lead in his feet...and gas in his stomach.
He's been around so long....
He can remember when the Dead Sea was still alive.
He can remember when rainbows only came in black and white.
He can remember when Heinz had only one variety.
He can remember when doctors made home deliveries, and pizza retaurants didn't.
Openers
I'm your Master of Ceremonies for the evening, and frankly, there's not an awful lot you can do about that.
Actually, I've been asked to speak no longer than three minutes. Three minutes!...I normally need more than that just for applause.
Ladies and gentlemen, and any lawyers in the audience...
As they tell their speakers at Shell...if you don't strike oil in three minutes, stop boring!
Overweight
I don't want to say he's fat...but I will! - he's fat!
They say that no man is an island...let's face it, Phil Gorman comes pretty close.
He's certainly a big eater...who else do you know who owns a wide-screen microwave.
He's a bit depressed at the moment...he read the FT this morning and suddenly ralised that the Economy is in better shape than he is.
Rich and Poor
There's something rather disturbing about finding your lawyer's name in the Sunday Times 'Britain's Richest 500'.
Last week he went out to buy a couple of golf clubs... Wentworth and St Andrews!
I'm not in the least worried about my overdraft...Believe me, it's big enough to look after itself.
It's a real pleasure to be standing here, surrounded by the 'creme de la skimmed milk'.
These are only a few of the one liners and they are in no way the best of them. So buy the book if you need some good laughing material. ¶ 10:40 PM 1 comments
Bad News
It's easy to say business is improving... Saying it with a straight face is a problem.
These figures prove that not all the sufferings are in the third world.
This year, in time for our AGM, we've decided to have our Annual Report written by a professional... Stephen King.
Revenge
Ladies and gentlemen, I've always believed that if you can't say something good about someone, you're probably talking about Stan Pearce.
He's an only child...his parents decided to stop while they still outnumbered him.
He's still his own worst enemy, but the competition's getting stiffer all the time.
If you lend him money, you'll never see him again... and it's worth it!
Booze 'n Boozers
One of the best things you can do is to drink a lot when you get old. That way, every time you go to kick the bucket, you miss.
Most of the time, he doesn't drink anything stronger than pop...mind you, Pop'll drink anything!
I'm perfectly alright. You're the one who is spinning around.
For those who are interested, there's a new support group: "Teetotalers Anonymous". If you feel like going on the wagon, you call a Freephone number and two drunks come over and try to talk you out of it.
Bores
Due to popular demand Sidney Stafford will not be making a speech tonight.
When he's in full flow, all I do is say 'Wow!' every now and then...it's not very clever, but it fits a yawn perfectly.
He'd make a great Governor of the Bank of England...whenever he speaks, everyone's interest rate drops.
OK, so his mind wanders a bit, but be fair...wouldn't you if you were in that body?
Competitors
Do you know how many people work there?...about one in four!
Their logo ought to be rhinoceros...it's thick-skinned, short-sighted and charges a lot.
Old Employees
He's worth a fortune...he must be...he's got silver in his hair, gold in his teeth, rare stones in his kidney, lead in his feet...and gas in his stomach.
He's been around so long....
He can remember when the Dead Sea was still alive.
He can remember when rainbows only came in black and white.
He can remember when Heinz had only one variety.
He can remember when doctors made home deliveries, and pizza retaurants didn't.
Openers
I'm your Master of Ceremonies for the evening, and frankly, there's not an awful lot you can do about that.
Actually, I've been asked to speak no longer than three minutes. Three minutes!...I normally need more than that just for applause.
Ladies and gentlemen, and any lawyers in the audience...
As they tell their speakers at Shell...if you don't strike oil in three minutes, stop boring!
Overweight
I don't want to say he's fat...but I will! - he's fat!
They say that no man is an island...let's face it, Phil Gorman comes pretty close.
He's certainly a big eater...who else do you know who owns a wide-screen microwave.
He's a bit depressed at the moment...he read the FT this morning and suddenly ralised that the Economy is in better shape than he is.
Rich and Poor
There's something rather disturbing about finding your lawyer's name in the Sunday Times 'Britain's Richest 500'.
Last week he went out to buy a couple of golf clubs... Wentworth and St Andrews!
I'm not in the least worried about my overdraft...Believe me, it's big enough to look after itself.
It's a real pleasure to be standing here, surrounded by the 'creme de la skimmed milk'.
These are only a few of the one liners and they are in no way the best of them. So buy the book if you need some good laughing material. ¶ 10:40 PM 1 comments
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
The Unnamed Feeling
Hah! Here I am! Writing my own blog. Now the title of this post is a song from Metallica. I really love that song; and it matches with the content of my first post.
Have you ever wondered why there is a universe? Well, neither have I. But do sometimes wonder what would there be if there was no universe, no sun, no earth, no people, nothing. There will be nothing. As soon as I reach this point in my thinking state, I get this very strange feeling which can't be expressed in words. It is a really depressing feeling. It lingers in my mind for a split second and then disappears. Heartbeat speeds up. I really don't know what that feeling is. I may sound stupid but I can't fully understand this feeling. Imagine nothing absolutely nothing happening. What is the use of doing what we do if it is going to be wiped out in distant future; when all the stars lose their shine and everything dies. I find it really depressing as I said earlier, but still sometimes I try to regenerate this feeling; the un-named feeling.
Try it yourself. Try to generate this feeling within your mind. It is hard, but once you generate it, you'll want it again. Try to think; if there was no universe, what would there be? It is not like some big part of something really important has gone, it's the actual 'thing' is not there. Trust me, it's hard to explain....... ¶ 10:24 AM 0 comments
Have you ever wondered why there is a universe? Well, neither have I. But do sometimes wonder what would there be if there was no universe, no sun, no earth, no people, nothing. There will be nothing. As soon as I reach this point in my thinking state, I get this very strange feeling which can't be expressed in words. It is a really depressing feeling. It lingers in my mind for a split second and then disappears. Heartbeat speeds up. I really don't know what that feeling is. I may sound stupid but I can't fully understand this feeling. Imagine nothing absolutely nothing happening. What is the use of doing what we do if it is going to be wiped out in distant future; when all the stars lose their shine and everything dies. I find it really depressing as I said earlier, but still sometimes I try to regenerate this feeling; the un-named feeling.
Try it yourself. Try to generate this feeling within your mind. It is hard, but once you generate it, you'll want it again. Try to think; if there was no universe, what would there be? It is not like some big part of something really important has gone, it's the actual 'thing' is not there. Trust me, it's hard to explain....... ¶ 10:24 AM 0 comments
