How to Make a Jump Shot in Basketball
Jump shots are a great way of beating the zone defense in basketball. This kind of shot is particularly handy for players who are not that tall and regularly find their shots getting blocked. By executing a proper jump shot, a player will leave the zone defense feeling helpless and relying more on a player’s error than their own skill. Making a good jump shot requires a great deal of practice. There are a lot of technicalities that one needs to look at and perfect in order to raise their chances of making a perfect shot and scoring for their team.
Things Required:
– Basketball
– Basketball court
Instructions
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1
The first thing that you need to do is to get inside the three-point line while dribbling the basketball. You can take the jump shot outside of the three-point line as well, but the chances of it being successful will be considerably lower than the shot taken from inside the three-point line. Dribbling the basketball is important before getting into position to make the jump shot for building momentum and creating space.
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2
Once you are inside the three-point line, position your body in such a way that it is square to the hoop.
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3
Now bend your knees while keeping your feet nearly as apart as the width of your shoulders. This is important because having the feet too close will keep you from getting a good jump. Place your shooting hand under the ball. The other hand, called the off-hand in basketball terminology, should be placed on the side of the ball.
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4
Make sure the thumb of your off-hand is pointing straight to the center of your forehead. Also ensure that the fingers of this hand are spread out in order to gain greater control of the ball. Keep your eyes on the hoop and your elbows at your eye level.
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5
Now that you are in position and all set to take the shot, jump as high as you can. Just as your body lifts off the court, bring both your legs together.
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6
Before you get to the top of your jump, flick your shooting hand to release the ball in the direction of the hoop. Do not move the wrist of your off-hand, as that will mess up your aim and do not release the ball too early or too late.
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7
Make a smooth follow through, with the ball rolling off your index finger before leaving your shooting hand completely.
