On the court, every shot counts. That’s especially true of free throws, where most players can make 70% or more of their shots if they shoot consistently and accurately. Here are some ways to improve your free throw, so you can knock down shots at an even higher rate in your next game.
1) Choose a consistent spot
Point your toes at that distant spot on the floor you plan to shoot at. This is referred to as foot positioning, and it plays a key role in shooting a high percentage free throw because it increases consistency by ensuring your shots are all released from exactly the same angle. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart when you line up for your free throws—not too wide, or you won’t generate enough power; not too narrow, or you will put yourself off balance.
2) Practice makes perfect
If you are shooting from your legs, it’s important to know that practice makes perfect. Take it slow and make sure you are getting consistent results before you speed up your shooting or move on to a different shooting method. You want to knockdown shooter, not a one-time wonder! However, once your feet are comfortable, it’s time to practice shooting from your legs! If you are shooting from your legs, it’s important to know that practice makes perfect.
3) Work on your free throw mechanics
Before a game, take 10 minutes to work on your free throw shot. If you’re a consistent shooter, there’s no need for long hours of practice here. Instead, spend just a few minutes on shooting mechanics that will help you improve consistency and flow from your legs into a smooth shooting motion. The most important thing is to repeat these free throws throughout your game and not get frustrated if they don’t come easy at first. Because with some practice, they will!
4) Slow it down
Don’t rush the free throw, a lot of players make this mistake. Breathe, bend your knees and line yourself up for a nice knockdown shooter from just outside the foul line. Take a practice shot or two to get used to your new consistent shot. That’s it! 10 minutes should be enough time to fix any problems you have with your free throw shooting so that you can improve before your next game. Good luck on improving your game, keep practicing and good luck on game day!
5) Focus on the basics
The mechanics of shooting are endlessly complex. And while it’s tempting to try different training methods and advice, keep in mind that what may work for one player may not necessarily work for you. You might find yourself consistently making a shot from behind your back, but it’s probably not wise to focus on that for too long. Focus on what feels good and natural—and most importantly, get out there and play!
6) Find your dominant hand
Using your dominant hand to put the ball in the hoop is a good way to prevent flukes from happening. If you’re right-handed, your left hand should put the ball in the hoop at most times, whereas if you’re left-handed, it’s your right hand that does most of the work. Try practicing with each one and looking for some consistency so you can get ready for game time.
7) Relax!
You need to relax your shoulders and chest. It is very easy to tense up in these areas, but it will hurt your free throw shooting. Check out what tension feels like, and then work on relaxing your shoulders and chest before you shoot every time. If you do not check yourself beforehand, you are more likely to miss your shot or put too much power into it and take a bad shot instead of a good one. Focus!: When you’re practicing, make sure that all of your attention is focused on making your shots.
8) Watch pros shoot free throws
Watching film of great free throw shooters will help you see how they get their shots off so quickly and flawlessly. There are several things that go into shooting a perfect free throw, which includes proper mechanics, a consistent shot, and shot confidence (even if it’s fake). Improving your shooting isn’t just about technique—it’s also about doing everything right in your head before you even set foot on the court. In addition to watching footage of other players at work, look for videos that demonstrate proper form from multiple angles. Then, mimic what you see by shooting with a friend or against an empty hoop until you can replicate these techniques with consistency. It may take some time for your brain to accept these new habits as the way you shoot; but once it does, your body should follow suit without much effort on your part.
If you want to level up your shooting accuracy, we got you. We created the 6ixShooter Academy. A one-stop basketball training program to help elevate your game and become an unstoppable shooter with coach Seth McCoy a.k.a 6ixShooter. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE
If you want to level up your shooting accuracy, we got you. We created the 6ixShooter Academy. A one-stop basketball training program to help elevate your game and become an unstoppable shooter with coach Seth McCoy a.k.a 6ixShooter. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE
