Ayrton Oneill
The elbow shot is a term used to describe a shooting technique in basketball. It refers to the position of the elbow in relation to the ball and the body when shooting. The phrase elbow shot is not commonly used, but the idea of keeping the elbow tucked in and under the basketball is widely taught to young players. This technique aims to improve accuracy and shot consistency by establishing a balanced and fluid shot motion. The elbow shot is just one of many techniques that basketball players can use to improve their shooting accuracy and overall performance on the court.
Elbow Shot in Basketball
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Elbow Position | The elbow should be under the basketball, not tucked in too far or "popped" out. |
| Shooting Technique | Avoid using the palm to shoot. Keep the hand flush on the ball, with a tiny space between the palm and the ball. |
| Footwork | Establish a balanced and fluid shot motion, focusing on effective footwork. |
| Set Point | The elbow should be above the eyes as the ball leaves the shooter's hand. The elbow should lift before the hand moves forward. |
| Drills | The "Elbow Shooting Drill" can help players practice their form and footwork. |
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What You'll Learn
Elbow shooting drills
Elbow shooting is a fundamental skill in basketball, and perfecting it requires a combination of proper technique, footwork, and practice. Here are some elbow shooting drills that can help players improve their accuracy and overall shooting ability.
Elbow Shooting Drill
This drill aims to establish a balanced, fluid, and consistent shot motion while moving into a shot from both directions, emphasising effective footwork. It is best performed with four players at a basket. The setup involves a player in the shooting line above the top of the key, a rebounder near the basket on the off-side of the right-side shooting elbow, and two players in the passing line at the right wing, free throw line extended outside the three-point line. The ball starts in the passer's hands. The shooter should focus on landing in the same spot or slightly in front of their starting position. It is beneficial to keep a record of the number of successful shots from each elbow and emphasise the importance of presenting target hands to passers.
Elbow Layups
This intermediate shooting and layup drill starts at the right elbow with a basketball. The player explodes forward, pushing the ball towards the rim and finishing with a strong right-handed layup. They then sprint back to the starting position and repeat the process, focusing on maximising their speed and power.
Running Elbow Shooting Drill
This drill is designed to improve speed, accuracy, and decision-making. Players start on the halfway line and run towards the elbow of the three-point line. Upon receiving the ball, they shoot and then repeat the process on the other side of the arc. After shooting, players collect the ball, pass it to the next player in line, and join the back of the line. This drill should be continuous to maintain an intense pace.
Technique Tips
- Keep your elbow under the basketball, not tucked in or popped out, to ensure straight shots.
- Avoid shooting with your palm; instead, keep your hand flush on the ball with a tiny space between your palm and the ball for better control.
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Elbow shooting techniques
Elbow shooting is a fundamental skill in basketball, and there are several techniques to improve your accuracy and consistency when shooting with your elbow.
Firstly, it is crucial to understand the proper elbow placement during shooting. A common misconception is that the elbow should be tucked into the body or pointed outwards, forming an “L” shape. However, the correct technique is to have your elbow under the basketball, ensuring a straight shot and a comfortable body position. This prevents the shot from being affected by an overly tense or uncomfortable posture.
Another important technique is to ensure your hand is in the correct position relative to the ball. Avoid shooting with your palm; instead, keep your hand relaxed and flush on the basketball. There should be a tiny space between your palm and the ball, allowing for more control and precision in your shot.
To improve your elbow shooting, you can incorporate specific drills and exercises. One such drill is the elbow shooting drill, which focuses on establishing a balanced, fluid, and consistent shot motion while moving into a shot from both directions. It emphasises effective footwork and can be practised with four players at a basket. Start with a player in the shooting line, a rebounder near the basket, and two players in the passing line. The ball starts in the passer's hands, and the shooter performs a jab step to the left before cutting to the right elbow, receiving the pass, and stepping into the shot.
Additionally, it is beneficial to keep a record of your progress. Encourage players to track the number of successful shots made from each elbow daily. This helps identify areas for improvement and allows for targeted practice.
Remember, while technique is essential, it does not have to be perfect. Great shooters find a style that suits them and their comfort level. Focus on developing good fundamentals and practising consistently to see improvements in your elbow shooting technique.
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Elbow shooting form
Elbow Positioning
The position of your elbow in relation to the basketball is vital. A common phrase heard in basketball is, "When you shoot, your elbow should be in the shape of an 'L'." This essentially means getting your elbow lower, dropping it, or getting to the "V." However, this phrase can be misleading, and the proper form is more about having your elbow under the basketball rather than tucked in at your side. When your elbow is under the ball, your shot will travel straighter, improving accuracy. It also ensures a more comfortable shooting motion, allowing for a smooth release.
Hand and Palm Placement
Another common mistake is using your palm to shoot. Instead, keep your hand flush on the basketball, with a tiny space between your palm and the ball. This gives you more control over your shot and improves your shooting percentage.
Footwork
Footwork is an essential aspect of elbow shooting form. Establishing a solid base with your feet helps improve balance and stability. One tip is to position yourself as a 10 o'clock shooter rather than an exactly square shooter to prevent your elbow from flaring out during the shot motion.
Timing
The timing of your elbow movement in relation to your shooting hand is critical. As you reach your set point, ensure that your elbow is lifting up before your hand starts moving forward. This subtle movement is challenging to see with the naked eye, but it makes a difference in the quality of your shot.
Practice Drills
To improve your elbow shooting form, consider specific drills. One such drill involves having four players at a basket: a player in the shooting line, a rebounder near the basket, and two players in the passing line. This drill helps players develop a balanced, fluid, and consistent shot motion while focusing on effective footwork.
Remember, the key to improving your elbow shooting form is to find a comfortable, relaxed position that allows for a smooth and accurate shot. It is also essential to be open to adjustments and feedback, as finding the right form can be a trial-and-error process.
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Elbow shooting accuracy
Elbow Shooting Techniques
The position of your elbow when shooting can significantly impact your accuracy. A common misconception is that you should keep your elbow tucked in close to your body or pointed towards your belly button when shooting. This can restrict your movement and cause discomfort. Instead, the proper technique is to have your elbow under the basketball, ensuring a straight shot.
Another important aspect is to avoid shooting with your palm. Keeping your hand relaxed and flush with the basketball will give you more control over your shot. There should be a tiny space between your palm and the ball, as having too much space can decrease your shooting percentage.
Drills for Elbow Shooting Accuracy
To improve your elbow shooting accuracy, you can perform specific drills that focus on establishing a balanced, fluid, and consistent shot motion. These drills emphasize effective footwork and can be practiced with multiple players at a basket. For example, one drill starts with a player in the shooting line, a rebounder positioned near the basket, and two players in the passing line.
Muscle Strength and Shooting Accuracy
The strength of your elbow extensors and volar flexors also plays a role in shooting accuracy, especially for junior players. Studies have shown that junior players with higher elbow extensor strength were more successful in long-distance shooting, as the increased strength allowed them to generate more force to reach the basket from greater distances. Therefore, developing the maximum strength of elbow extensors can be beneficial for young players aiming to improve their long-distance shooting accuracy.
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Elbow shooting for young players
Elbow shooting is a fundamental skill in basketball, and while it may come more naturally to some players, it is a technique that can be learned and perfected with practice. Young players should focus on developing good habits early on, and coaches can play a vital role in ensuring proper shooting techniques are instilled from the start.
The elbow is an important part of the body to consider when shooting a basketball. The position of the elbow can affect the accuracy of a shot, and it is important that it is not tucked in too far or left out too wide. A common issue with young players is that they tend to shoot with their elbows out, which can lead to a poor arc and affect the power and direction of the shot. The elbow should be under the basketball, with the hand flush on the ball, to ensure a straight shot.
A good drill to practice elbow shooting is to have four players at a basket. Start with a player in the shooting line, a rebounder positioned near the basket on the off-side of the right-side shooting elbow, and two players in the passing line at the right wing, free-throw line extended and outside the three-point line. The ball will start in the passer's hands. This drill helps players establish a balanced, fluid, and consistent shot motion while moving into a shot from both directions, with a particular focus on effective footwork.
When teaching young players, it is important to give them cues that resonate with them. While some coaches may say "get your elbow in", this can sometimes lead to players overdoing it and tucking their elbow in too far, which is just as inefficient as having it out too wide. Instead, coaches should focus on the optimal position of the fingers and guide hand, which will naturally lead to the elbow being in the correct position.
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Frequently asked questions
An elbow shot in basketball refers to the technique of shooting with your elbow under the basketball, which allows for a straight shot.
"Get your elbow in" means to keep your elbow under the ball and off your body. This is not incorrect advice, but it can be overdone, leading to an inefficient shooting form.
Young players often push the ball forward before their elbow starts to lift, which can affect the accuracy of their shot.
The proper shooting form involves having your elbow under the basketball, with your hand flush on the ball and a tiny space between your palm and the ball.
