Kristian Ferrell
Long 2s are generally considered to be the worst type of shot in basketball. They are inefficient and break the rhythm of the game. However, there are several nuances to this view. Firstly, some players are better at hitting set 20-foot jump shots than floaters from closer to the basket. Secondly, a guard or small forward taking an open 21-footer is better than a big man taking a contested 10-15 footer. Thirdly, towards the end of the shot clock, a long 2 is a better option than a more efficient shot that you don't have time to take. Finally, some players are simply not capable of shooting from 3-point range, so a long 2 is a better option for them.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Efficiency | Long 2s are considered less efficient than 3s and shots near the basket. |
| Difficulty | Some players find it more difficult to shoot 3s than long 2s. |
| Rhythm | Long 2s can break a player's rhythm. |
| Strategy | Teams are increasingly focusing on 3-pointers, but long 2s can be valuable if a player is left open. |
| Defense | Defenses may allow long 2s to go uncontested, but this can strengthen other parts of their strategy. |
| Time | Long 2s are worse early in the shot clock but can be a better option late in the shot clock than no shot at all. |
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What You'll Learn
- Long 2s are inefficient, but they can be a good option when close to the shot clock expiring
- They are easier to shoot than 3-pointers for some players
- They can be used to counter defensive strategies
- They are more likely to be open than 3-pointers
- They are a good option for players who are good shooters
Long 2s are inefficient, but they can be a good option when close to the shot clock expiring
Long 2s are widely considered to be inefficient shots in basketball. The dramatic increase in 3-point attempts has coincided with a dramatic increase in offensive efficiency for NBA teams. However, there are certain situations where taking a long 2 can be a good option, such as when the shot clock is about to expire.
The inefficiency of long 2s is well-known, and they are often seen as the worst type of shot in basketball. This is because they are less efficient than 3-pointers and shots near the basket. However, this knowledge can also be used to a player's advantage. If a player is left open and is a good shooter, taking a long 2 can be a wise shot as it is more likely to be uncontested. Additionally, if the shot clock is expiring, taking a long 2 can be a better option than not getting a shot off at all. In this case, a 40% shot with a chance at an offensive rebound is preferable to a turnover.
The efficiency of a shot also depends on the player taking it. Some players, such as KG, are more comfortable taking long 2s than shooting from 3-point range. Additionally, some players are simply better at hitting a set 20-foot jumpshot than a floater off the dribble from a shorter distance. For these players, taking a long 2 can be a good option, especially if they are left open.
Furthermore, the efficiency of a shot can also depend on the defense. Teams that focus their defense on the perimeter and under the basket can be countered by players who are adept at taking mid-range shots. In this case, taking a long 2 can be a valuable option as it is more likely to be open. Additionally, if the defense is not committed to contesting long jumpers, taking a long 2 can be a more efficient shot than a contested 3-pointer or a shot near the basket.
In conclusion, while long 2s are generally inefficient shots, they can be a good option in certain situations, such as when the shot clock is expiring. In these moments, taking a long 2 can be preferable to not getting a shot off at all. Additionally, for players who are comfortable and skilled at taking long 2s, it can be a valuable weapon in their arsenal, especially if the defense is not committed to contesting these shots.
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They are easier to shoot than 3-pointers for some players
Long 2s are considered inefficient shots in basketball, but they are easier to shoot than 3-pointers for some players. Here are several reasons why:
Firstly, some players simply don't have the mechanics or range for 3-point shots. For example, KG, a famous basketball player, was often criticized for taking long 2s instead of 3-pointers. However, the reality is that KG and players like him feel more comfortable shooting long 2s because they lack the ability to shoot comfortably from beyond the 3-point line.
Secondly, the area closer to the basket tends to be more congested, with multiple defenders contesting shots. This congestion increases the likelihood of a player taking a lower-percentage shot, like a contested 10-15 footer, or a wild shot attempt in hopes of drawing a foul. In contrast, the spots further out, which are typical for long 2s, are more likely to be catch-and-shoot plays or pull-up jumpers with less defensive pressure.
Additionally, while 3-pointers have gained prominence in the NBA, leading to increased offensive efficiency, the mid-range game still has its advantages. Teams often focus their defense on the perimeter and under the basket, so players who can consistently hit mid-range shots can exploit this area of the court. This was evident in the 2010-2011 season, where the average shooting percentage from 10-15 feet was 39.3%, comparable to the average 3-point percentage of 39.4%.
Moreover, the efficiency of a shot also depends on the context and the player involved. For instance, a guard or small forward taking an open 21-footer is generally a better option than a big man taking a contested 10-15 footer. Similarly, towards the end of the shot clock, a long 2 with a higher chance of success is often preferable to a more challenging 3-pointer or a shot near the basket that might not get off in time.
Lastly, long 2s can be effective counter moves in specific situations. For example, a player like David Lee, who often drives to the hoop, can create space for an open mid-range jumper by causing defenders to back off to defend the drive. Thus, while long 2s may be statistically inefficient, they can be valuable in specific contexts and for players with specific skill sets.
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They can be used to counter defensive strategies
Long 2s can be used to counter defensive strategies in basketball in several ways. Firstly, they can be effective when a team's defence focuses on the perimeter and under the basket. Taking long 2s can be a good option if a player is open and has a decent percentage of making those shots. This is because the defence might be more concerned with contesting three-point shots or shots closer to the basket.
Secondly, long 2s can be used as a counter move by players who are good at driving to the basket. For example, a player might use a quick dribble drive to the hoop, causing the defender to back off to defend the drive, which then opens up the opportunity for the offensive player to take the mid-range jumper.
Thirdly, long 2s can be useful when playing against a zone defence, where defenders are guarding specific areas rather than individual players. In this case, a player taking an open long 2 might have a better chance of making the shot than attempting a contested shot closer to the basket, as defenders are less likely to leave their assigned areas to contest the shot.
Additionally, long 2s can be effective against a man-to-man defence when the defender is weaker or slower than the offensive player. In this case, the offensive player might be able to create separation from the defender and take an open long 2, as it can be more difficult for the defender to recover and contest the shot.
Overall, while long 2s may not be the most efficient shot in basketball, they can be used tactically to counter specific defensive strategies and create high-percentage scoring opportunities.
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They are more likely to be open than 3-pointers
Long 2s are considered inefficient shots in basketball. However, there are several nuances to this argument. Firstly, long 2s are more likely to be open shots than 3-pointers. This is because defences are less focused on contesting long 2s compared to 3-pointers, viewing them as less efficient options. As a result, players taking long 2s often have more space and time to set up their shots, increasing the likelihood of making them. This is especially true for players who are not comfortable with shooting from beyond the 3-point line.
The efficiency of a shot also depends on the player's position and the game situation. For example, a guard or small forward taking an open long 2 can be a better option than a big man taking a contested shot closer to the basket. Additionally, towards the end of the shot clock, a long 2 can be a better choice than a more contested shot near the basket or a 3-pointer, as it provides a higher chance of scoring or an offensive rebound.
While 3-pointers have become more prominent in the NBA, long 2s still have their strategic value. They can be effective counter moves, as defenders tend to back off to prevent drives to the basket, leaving the shooter open. This is particularly useful for players with a high success rate from mid-range, such as David Lee, who often uses this tactic.
Furthermore, some players excel at shooting long 2s and can make them at a high percentage. For instance, Tony Parker improved his game by utilising the long 2, as he was unable to shoot comfortably from beyond the 3-point line. Thus, while long 2s may generally be considered less efficient, they can be valuable tools for specific players and situations, especially when they are left open by defences.
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They are a good option for players who are good shooters
Long 2s are considered inefficient shots in basketball due to their low success rate. However, they can be a good option for players who are good shooters and can execute them effectively. Here are some reasons why long 2s can be beneficial for skilled shooters:
Firstly, long 2s can be a valuable option for good shooters when left open. While 3-pointers are generally more efficient, defenses often focus on contesting these shots. As a result, skilled shooters may find more open opportunities for long 2s, making them a wiser choice in certain situations. This is especially true when the defense is less committed to contesting long 2s, increasing the likelihood of a successful shot.
Additionally, long 2s can be a comfortable shot for certain players. Some players, such as KG, may not have the mechanics or range for comfortable 3-point shooting. For them, a long 2 can be as easy as a shot from the baseline. This comfort zone can lead to higher shooting percentages and improve a player's overall efficiency.
Moreover, long 2s can be a strategic choice to create space and open up the game. By taking a step back for a long 2, players can break the defense's rhythm and create scoring opportunities. This can be particularly effective for star players who can exploit openings regardless of their position on the court.
Long 2s also have a role in counter moves and bail-out options. For example, a quick dribble drive to the hoop can force defenders to back off, leaving the jumper open. In such cases, a skilled shooter can take advantage of the open mid-range shot and execute it with a high success rate.
Lastly, the efficiency of long 2s can vary depending on the personnel and the situation. While they may not be the best option early in the shot clock, they can be a better choice late in the clock when a lower-percentage shot is acceptable to avoid a violation. Skilled shooters can capitalize on these opportunities to get a shot off and create a chance for an offensive rebound.
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Frequently asked questions
Long 2s are inefficient shots in basketball, but they are not the worst shot. A contested, deep 2 is not a wise shot unless the player is a good shooter.
Long 2s are inefficient because they are less valuable than shots closer to the basket, which have a higher chance of success.
Long 2s can be useful for good shooters who are left open. They can also be used to open up the game for star players regardless of their position.
Alternative shots to long 2s include layups and 3-pointers.
