Helena Frye
Shooting a basketball correctly is the most important skill to master in the game. While there are different techniques to shoot a basketball, one method is to bring the ball up over your head, keeping the elbow of your shooting arm in line with your shoulder. This is a more advanced technique, often used by taller and stronger players. It is a two-motion shot, which can be more difficult to block due to the higher release point. To shoot with this method, start by squaring your shoulders and standing with your feet shoulder-width apart. Move your foot on the same side as your shooting hand lightly forward, bend your knees slightly to maintain balance, and hold the ball at waist level. When you're ready to shoot, pick a target and straighten your knees, jumping slightly forward and using your hips and legs to propel yourself upwards. As you jump, bring the ball up over your head and release.
How to do the over-the-head basketball shot
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Quickness of the shot | The quicker the shot, the less likely it is to get blocked |
| Space created | Creating more space helps prevent the shot from getting blocked |
| Reading the defender | Reading the defender is important to prevent the shot from getting blocked |
| Shooting form | Be comfortable with your form |
| Shooting hand | Use your dominant hand to shoot |
| Non-shooting hand | Use your non-dominant hand to guide the shot |
| Elbow position | Keep your elbow under the ball, not on the side |
| Wrist action | The flick of the wrist is important for the shot |
| Leg movement | Use your legs to jump and propel the ball |
| Shoulder position | Keep your shoulders back and lean back slightly |
| Foot position | Place your dominant foot slightly in front of the other |
| Ball position | Hold the ball at waist level until you are ready to shoot |
| Target | Pick a target, such as the hoop or a spot on the backboard |
| Jumping | Jump slightly forward to give the ball more arc |
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What You'll Learn
Forehead/upper-head area is ideal
When shooting a basketball, the ideal position for the ball is around the forehead/upper-head area. This is because it is more difficult for defenders to block the shot when the ball is in a higher position. It is also more efficient to shoot from this position, as it is a one-motion shot, whereas shooting from above the head is a two-motion shot, typically used by taller or stronger players.
To shoot from the forehead/upper-head area, you should start by squaring your shoulders and standing with your feet shoulder-width apart, or slightly narrower. If you are right-handed, put your right foot slightly in front of your left, and vice versa if you are left-handed. Bend your knees slightly to maintain balance and get ready to jump. Hold the ball at waist level until you are ready to shoot.
When you are ready to shoot, pick a target, whether it is the hoop or a spot on the backboard. Straighten your knees and jump, using your hips and legs to propel yourself upwards and forward. Keep your shoulders back and relaxed, and lean back slightly. As you jump, bring the ball up to the forehead/upper-head area, keeping the elbow of your shooting arm in line with your shoulder.
A useful tip is to think of a line going from your shoulder to your wrist. Snap your elbow up to that line while extending your wrist towards the basket. This will cause your wrist to snap forward naturally, propelling the ball towards the basket.
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Quickness of shot
The quickness of your shot is an important factor in getting your shot off defences. A quick shot is more likely to result in a goal as it gives your opponent less time to block you.
To achieve a quick shot, you need to be comfortable with your form and the technique you are using. Practising your shot will help you improve your form and increase your shot speed. You can also try mimicking the form of professional basketball players, such as Steph Curry, who is known for his ability to shoot above his head.
Another way to improve the quickness of your shot is to create space between yourself and your defender. This can be done by using your legs to jump slightly forward when you shoot, giving your ball more arc and making it harder for your opponent to block. It is also important to be able to read your defender and anticipate their movements, so you can adjust your shot accordingly.
Quickness can also be improved by reducing the number of motions in your shot. A shot released from above the head is a two-motion shot and requires more strength, so it is important to build up your strength and technique if you want to utilise this type of shot. Practising with a one-motion shot, where the ball is released from the forehead or upper head area, can help you to develop a quicker shot.
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Elbow and wrist snap
The elbow and wrist snap is an essential part of the over-the-head basketball shot. This technique is used by NBA players such as Steph Curry, who is known for his unique form. To execute this move, start by visualising a line extending from your shoulder to your wrist. As you jump, bring the basketball up and over your head, keeping your shooting arm's elbow in line with your shoulder.
Now, here comes the crucial part—the elbow and wrist snap. Snap your elbow up to the imaginary line, while simultaneously extending your wrist towards the basket. This action will cause your wrist to snap forward naturally, propelling the ball with force and precision. The flick of the wrist and elbow is crucial to mastering this shot, as it provides both power and accuracy.
It is important to note that the over-the-head shot is a two-motion shot, which means it requires more strength and coordination than a typical one-motion shot. Taller and stronger players tend to favour this shot as it allows them to release the ball from a higher position, making it more difficult for defenders to block.
While the elbow and wrist snap is a key component of the over-the-head shot, it is just one element of a larger technique. Other factors, such as quickness of release, creating space, and reading the defender, are also vital to consider when developing your shooting form. Practice and comfort with your shot will also contribute to improving your accuracy and reducing the chances of being blocked.
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Jump and lean technique
The jump and lean technique is an essential skill to master when learning how to shoot a basketball. This technique can help you get your shot off defences and prevent you from getting blocked. Here is a step-by-step guide to executing the jump and lean technique effectively:
Foot Placement and Stance:
Start by positioning your feet shoulder-width apart or slightly narrower. If you are right-handed, place your right foot slightly forward, and if you are left-handed, place your left foot forward. This stance will provide you with a solid base and help you maintain balance during the shot.
Squaring the Shoulders and Bending the Knees:
Square your shoulders to establish a stable foundation for your shot. Slightly bend your knees to engage your lower body and prepare for the jump. Keep your knees bent until you are ready to jump and shoot, as this will help you generate power and maintain balance.
Hand Placement and Grip:
Use your dominant hand (the hand you write with) for shooting. Grip the basketball with your fingertips perpendicular to the seams of the ball. This hand will be responsible for launching the ball. Place your non-dominant hand on the side of the ball to guide and stabilise the shot. You can adjust the position of your palm, ensuring it doesn't interfere with the release of the ball.
Jumping and Shooting:
When you are ready to shoot, straighten your knees and use your legs to propel yourself upward. Jump slightly forward to give your shot more forward momentum and arc. As you jump, bring the ball up over your head, keeping your shooting arm's elbow in line with your shoulder. This high release point makes it harder for defenders to block your shot.
Leaning Back:
While jumping, lean your shoulders back slightly. This lean helps you maintain balance and ensures you don't lean too far forward, which can cause tension in your neck and shoulders. Keep your eyes on the target, whether it's the hoop or a spot on the backboard, to ensure accurate shot placement.
Remember, the jump and lean technique requires a coordinated movement of your legs, torso, and arms. Practice this technique regularly, and don't be afraid to make adjustments to find what works best for you. With time and dedication, you will develop a smooth and effective shooting form using the jump and lean technique.
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Shooting hand grip
The shooting hand grip is a crucial aspect of executing a successful over-the-head basketball shot. Here are some detailed instructions and tips to help you master this skill:
- Grip the ball with your shooting hand wide open, ensuring your thumb is comfortably spread out.
- Place your index finger (pointer finger) on the air valve of the ball. This will provide a reference point for a consistent grip.
- Position your fingertips perpendicular to the seams of the ball. This positioning will give you better control and accuracy during the shot.
- Spread your fingers wide to maximise control over the ball.
- The ball should sit on your finger pads, allowing it to roll off your fingertips effortlessly during the release.
Guide Hand Placement:
While the shooting hand is essential, the placement of your non-dominant hand, or guide hand, also plays a role in achieving a smooth and accurate shot:
- Place your guide hand on the side of the basketball, with your fingers pointed towards the ceiling when the ball is at the set point.
- From this position, your guide hand only needs to move slightly to release from the ball, minimising interference with the shooting motion.
- Avoid placing your guide hand towards the top or front of the ball, as it will require a larger movement to release, increasing the risk of errors.
Drills and Practice:
- Practice dribbling the ball in front of you, then catching it with your dominant hand and elbow centred directly behind the ball.
- Incorporate single-bounce dribbles and return the ball to your shot pocket before shooting.
- Use tools like the Wrap Strap or the HoopsKing Smooth Shooter to develop proper muscle memory and eliminate bad shooting habits. These tools encourage a perfect one-handed release and improve your shooting form.
- Practice shooting from close range and gradually work your way back to the three-point line to improve your power and technique.
Remember, the key to a successful over-the-head basketball shot is not just strength but also comfort and consistency in your shooting form. Find what works best for you, and with practice, you'll be shooting like the pros!
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Frequently asked questions
Start by squaring your shoulders and standing with your feet shoulder-width apart. If you're right-handed, put your right foot slightly in front of your left. Hold the ball at waist level, then jump and bring the ball up and over your head, keeping your elbow in line with your shoulder.
Use your dominant hand to shoot and the other hand as a guide. Position your shooting hand so that your fingertips are perpendicular to the seams in the ball. Also, make sure to keep your elbow under the ball, not on the side.
Shooting the ball over your head can make it harder for defenders to block your shot. However, it can also be more challenging to execute, especially if you're not tall or strong enough. Shooting from the chest is generally considered less effective, as it may require more power.
Practice makes perfect! Try mimicking the form of NBA players like Steph Curry, who is known for his unique shooting form. You can also seek feedback and advice by posting a video of your shot online on forums like r/BasketballTips on Reddit.
