Andrew Pace
Flicking the basketball with your thumb on the guide hand is a common mistake that can cause serious problems for the shooter, resulting in the ball spraying left and right. To fix this, you can squeeze your thumb against your index finger on the guide hand. Additionally, the ball should rest on the side of the thumb rather than the tip to improve accuracy and comfort. Developing a good shooting technique requires persistence and focus, and it may take thousands of repetitions to see improvement. One training aid that can help is the FNBX FlickGlove, which uses varying resistances to strengthen the muscles used in shooting and dribbling.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Resting position of the ball | The ball should rest on the side of the thumb, not the tip, on the shooting hand. |
| Flicking motion | Avoid using the thumb on the guide hand to flick the ball, as this will cause the ball to spray left and right. |
| Practice method | Start away from the hoop and take thousands of shots. |
| Practice equipment | FNBX FlickGlove – a set of 3 silicone strap resistances in varying colours that strengthen shooting and dribbling muscles. |
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What You'll Learn
Avoiding using the thumb on the guide hand
Flicking the basketball with the thumb on the guide hand is a common shooting flaw, especially among young players. This can cause the ball to spray left or right, and create side spin instead of soft and smooth backspin. To avoid using the thumb on the guide hand, you can try the following:
Squeeze your thumb against your index finger
One way to prevent using your thumb on the guide hand is to squeeze your thumb against your index finger on the same hand. This will prevent you from being able to shoot the ball with your thumb.
Adjust the position of your guide hand
Try taking your guide hand off the ball by about half an inch and shoot with one hand. This will help you focus on keeping your guide hand still and prevent you from flicking with your thumb.
Use a shooting strap
A shooting strap can be an effective tool to keep your guide hand and thumb still while shooting. This can help you break the habit of using your thumb.
Practice with proper form
Stand about 8 feet (2 meters) away from the rim and shoot just with your shooting hand. This will help you practice the proper wrist motion without relying on your guide hand. You can also try standing 4-5 feet away from the rim and holding something between your thumb and index finger of your guide hand, such as a coin, while shooting. Repetitive practice of proper form is key to breaking the habit of using your thumb.
Build new muscle memory
To break the habit of using your thumb on the guide hand, you need to develop new muscle memory. This can be done by practicing the correct technique over and over again. Take thousands of shots using the proper form without your guide thumb, gradually moving further away from the basket as you become more comfortable.
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Avoiding using the thumb on the shooting hand
Thumb flicks are a common problem for basketball players, especially younger players, and can affect the flight of the ball, causing you to miss left or right. It can also create side spin instead of soft and smooth backspin when you shoot.
To avoid using your thumb on the shooting hand, you can try the following:
Firstly, stand about 8 feet (2 metres) away from the rim and practise shooting one-handed, without using your guide hand. This will help you focus on getting the proper wrist motion without relying on a thumb flick.
Another method is to squeeze your thumb against your index finger on your guide hand. This will prevent you from using your thumb to flick the ball. You can also try holding something between your thumb and index finger, such as a coin, while practising your shot.
Additionally, ensure that your guide hand stays still and does not influence the flight of the ball. You can use a shooting strap to keep your guide hand and thumb still, or you can try moving your guide hand slightly further away from the ball.
To break this habit, it is essential to develop new muscle memory by repeating the correct technique thousands of times. This process can be challenging and will require focus and persistence, but it will help you improve your shooting form and consistency.
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Shooting at the top of your jump
Pre-Shot Preparation
Before releasing the ball, ensure your feet are shoulder-width apart, facing the basket, and your knees are bent, ready to spring. Keep your eyes on the rim throughout the shot to maintain a compact form and a straighter shot.
Hand Placement
Place your non-shooting hand on the side of the ball. This hand should not influence the ball's spin or move upon release. Keep your shooting hand's elbow underneath the ball, and ensure the ball rests on the side of your thumb rather than the tip. This will feel awkward initially, but it will improve accuracy.
Jump and Release
Jump and release the ball at the highest point, keeping your shooting arm straight and pointing at the basket. The ball should be in a backspin. Landing in the same spot you jumped from ensures balance.
Follow Through
Keep your wrists relaxed on the way down, with your fingers still pointing at the target. Hold this position until the ball hits the basket. This consistent practice will significantly enhance your jump shot technique.
Additional Tips
Shooting before reaching the top of your jump has benefits. It allows for a quicker release, giving defenders less time to recover. It also results in a smoother shot as you don't interrupt the shot motion. Additionally, the momentum from your legs helps carry the ball farther.
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Using a FlickGlove
The FlickGlove is a basketball training aid designed to improve your shot accuracy and form. It consists of a set of three silicone strap resistances in white, black, and orange, which provide varying resistance strengths. The gloves are adjustable and can fit all wrist sizes.
When shooting a basketball, the FlickGlove applies resistance to your hand, forcing you to follow through with your shot. This constant tension on your wrist and fingers helps to strengthen your shooting and dribbling muscles, improving your overall ball-handling skills. The resistance also triggers muscle memory, teaching you to apply backspin to increase the chances of the ball smoothly going through the hoop.
The FlickGlove is suitable for both beginners and advanced players. It helps to correct bad habits, such as sideways releases, and improves shot follow-through. Users have reported that it fits well and is a great tool for enhancing their basketball skills, although some have noted that it feels tight at first.
To use the FlickGlove effectively, pair it with shooting and dribbling drills. The glove will constantly remind you to follow through with your shots, and the resistance bands will improve your hand dexterity and finger strength. With practice, you'll develop muscle memory and see an improvement in your shooting accuracy and overall performance.
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Practising without a hoop
While practising with a hoop is ideal, there are still ways to improve your basketball skills without one. Here are some tips for practising without a hoop:
Footwork and Stance
Even without a hoop, you can still practise your footwork and stance. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart or slightly closer, and stagger your feet by placing your shooting foot (the foot on the same side as your dominant hand) slightly forward. For example, if you're right-handed, your right foot should be slightly in front of your left. This stance will help you maintain balance and prepare to jump.
Squaring Shoulders and Aiming
Square your shoulders and hold the ball at waist level until you're ready to shoot. When you're ready, pick a target, whether it's an imaginary hoop or a spot on a wall. Keep your shoulders back and avoid leaning forward as you jump. Aim with your feet, maintaining a stable upper body.
Jumping and Propelling
Bend your knees slightly to prepare for the jump, then straighten your knees and use your hips and legs to propel yourself upwards. Jumping slightly forward will give your shot more forward momentum. As you jump, bring the ball up over your head, keeping your shooting arm's elbow in line with your shoulder.
Follow-Through
The follow-through is crucial for accuracy. After releasing the ball, your shooting hand will resemble a swan. Your arm should be arched towards the target, with your hand loosely cocked downward and your fingers pointed at the imaginary hoop or target. Practise this motion to ensure it becomes natural.
Repetition and Persistence
Even when practising without a hoop, repetition is essential. It takes thousands of repetitions to improve your shooting form and technique. Be persistent and remember that your shot may get worse before it gets better. Focus on the long-term improvements and don't be discouraged by temporary setbacks.
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Frequently asked questions
The ball should rest on the side of the thumb, rather than the tip, on your shooting hand. This will help you shoot more accurately.
Practice makes perfect! Take thousands of shots from different distances and angles to improve your accuracy. You can also use training aids such as the FNBX FlickGlove, which helps you master the art of backspin.
The FNBX FlickGlove is a basketball shooting aid that comes with varying resistances to improve your shot and form. It includes a set of three silicone strap resistances in white, black, and orange.
One common mistake is flicking the ball with the thumb on the guide hand, which can cause the ball to spray left and right. Another mistake is shooting at or after the top of your jump, which requires more upper body strength. Instead, shoot as you are going up to utilize the momentum from your legs.
