Kristian Ferrell
The mid-range shot in basketball is a shot taken in the area between the three-point line and the basket. While the mid-range shot was once a common feature of basketball, it has seen a decline in recent years, with players and teams instead favouring three-point shots and layups. Despite this, some still argue for the value of the mid-range shot, and it remains a shot that players can use to great effect. The distance from the basket at which a shot is considered mid-range varies, but is generally considered to be between 10 and 21 feet.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Mid-range shot distance | 10-16 feet, 12 feet, 18 feet, 10-21 feet, 15-19 feet |
| Mid-range shot status | Considered a "bad shot" by TV analysts, but still valuable in certain situations |
| Mid-range shot trends | In decline since the Golden State Warriors' 2015 championship win, and the rise of three-point shooting |
| Mid-range shot coaching | Many young coaches lack knowledge of how to coach mid-range shots |
| Mid-range shot players | Kevin Durant, Chris Paul, Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, LeBron |
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What You'll Learn
Mid-range shots are not off-limits
The mid-range area on a basketball court is located between the three-point line and the key, the rectangular area surrounding the basket. While players rarely shoot from this area nowadays, it does not mean it is off-limits. Mid-range shots can be valuable, and great players like Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson have mastered the pull-up jumper, proving that mid-range shots can still be effective.
The decline in mid-range shots can be attributed to several factors. One reason is the rise in popularity of three-point shots, with teams recognising the higher value of a three-pointer compared to a mid-range shot. Additionally, the complexity of mid-range shots, which involve varying shot weight and defensive pressure, makes them less appealing to players and coaches. The shift towards three-pointers is also influenced by the lack of knowledge among young coaches about coaching mid-range shots and the strategies that produce them.
However, mid-range shots should not be completely dismissed. They can be advantageous in specific situations, such as when a player lacks the strength or mechanics for effective three-point shooting. Additionally, mid-range shots can be used to create a balanced approach in a team's shot selection, including three-pointers, mid-range, and low-post shots.
In conclusion, while the mid-range shot may be less prevalent in modern basketball, it is not off-limits. It still has its place in the game, and players and coaches should recognise its value and effectiveness in certain situations. The mid-range shot may be declining, but it is not yet dead.
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Mid-range shots are declining in popularity
Mid-range shots in basketball are those taken from an area of the court between the three-point line and the key (the rectangular area around the basket). While this area is still not off-limits, mid-range shots have been declining in popularity.
In the 1996-97 season, the mid-range jumper was the most common shot in the NBA, with 40% of all field goal attempts coming from that zone. However, since the introduction of the three-point line in the 1979-80 season, there has been a drastic increase in three-point attempts, with the three-pointer becoming the most popular shot in the last decade. In the 2020-21 season, the mid-range jumper had fallen to the least attempted field goal, with only 13.1% of attempts coming from this zone. This shift was accelerated by the Golden State Warriors' championship win in 2015, a team known for their three-point shooting prowess.
The rise in popularity of three-point shots can be attributed to the higher expected value of a three-pointer compared to a mid-range shot. A player needs to make 50% of their mid-range shots to reach the same level of efficiency as making 33.3% of three-point shots. As the league average for mid-range shots is well below 50%, it makes sense for players to favour three-pointers. Additionally, quickness has become a player's greatest asset, and the pull-up jumper is now considered modern basketball.
However, some argue that mid-range shots are still important, especially in close games and during the playoffs. The threat of an open mid-range shot can create good looks from the arc and at the rim, and it can be an effective option for keeping defences honest. Additionally, players who can consistently make mid-range shots at a high percentage, such as Kevin Durant, will always exist and benefit from this skill.
While the mid-range shot is not dead yet, it is clear that its popularity has declined significantly in recent years, with players and coaches favouring other options.
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The pull-up jumper is modern basketball
The pull-up jumper is an integral part of modern basketball. While the three-point shot has become increasingly popular, the pull-up jumper remains a crucial skill for players to master.
In the game of basketball, quickness and agility are highly valued. The pull-up jumper allows players to utilize their speed and catch their opponents off guard. When driving towards the basket, a player can abruptly stop, go straight up, and shoot a pull-up jumper. This move can be extremely effective, especially when practiced at full speed.
To perfect this skill, players must focus on their shooting form and release speed. It is recommended to practice shooting at a quicker-than-normal release, ensuring a smooth follow-through. Additionally, players should aim to get a high number of shots in a short time frame to build muscle memory. This can be achieved by standing at the free-throw line or driving full speed from the mid-court line to the free-throw line.
The pull-up jumper is especially valuable when defenders take away the option for a layup or a three-pointer. A good pull-up jumper can create space and open up scoring opportunities. It is a versatile move that can be used in various situations, whether driving to the basket or pulling up from a static position.
While the three-point shot may be the "best value" in terms of points, the pull-up jumper remains an essential skill in a player's arsenal. It adds unpredictability and versatility to a player's game, making them a more well-rounded and dangerous opponent.
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Mid-range shots are considered bad shots
Mid-range shots in basketball are considered inefficient and are often referred to as "bad shots". This is largely due to the introduction of the three-point shot, which offers a higher reward for similar levels of difficulty.
The three-point shot was introduced to reverse the decline in scoring that basketball was experiencing by the mid-1980s. Since then, scoring has continued to decline, but the three-point shot has become a staple of the modern game. The Golden State Warriors' championship win in 2015, largely attributed to their three-point shooting prowess, caused a shift in shot selection across the league, with mid-range shots declining rapidly.
Mid-range shots are considered complex, often requiring varying shot weight and inviting more defensive pressure. They are worth a third less points than a three-point shot, and players are less likely to be fouled when taking a mid-range shot late in the game. As a result, many teams have adopted a no midrange game, with young players and coaches instead focusing on three-point shooting and layups.
However, some argue that mid-range shots still have a place in the game. The threat of an open mid-range shot can create good looks from the arc and at the rim, and the art of the pull-up jumper is making a comeback. While the analytics crowd may frown upon them, mid-range shots can still be valuable in certain situations, and good mid-range shooters are highly valued.
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Mid-range shots are still valuable
The mid-range area is located between the three-point line and the key, and it is not off-limits. In fact, players used to frequently shoot from this area. While the rise of three-point specialists like the Golden State Warriors has shifted the focus towards long-range shooting, mid-range shots still have their place in the game.
One argument for the value of mid-range shots is that they can create scoring opportunities that might not be available from three-point range. For example, a player driving to the basket may be denied access to the rim by a defender, leaving them with the option of pulling up for a mid-range jumper. If the defender backs off to avoid conceding the mid-range shot, the player can then drive to the basket for a higher-percentage attempt. This strategy can be particularly effective for players who have mastered the pull-up jumper, a skill that is essential for all great players (with the exception of traditional big men).
Additionally, mid-range shots can be valuable in creating space and opening up other scoring options. If defenders are forced to respect the mid-range threat, it can create driving lanes to the basket or open up passing angles for three-point shots. This was evident in Shaun Powell's description of Butler's performance, where he "feasted on mid-range shots and layups" and created opportunities for his teammate Duncan Robinson, who made seven three-pointers.
Furthermore, in lower levels of basketball such as middle school and elementary school, the mid-range game may be more prominent due to players lacking the strength or mechanics to consistently shoot three-pointers. Coaches at these levels need to consider how to best utilize their players' skills, which may include incorporating mid-range shots into their offensive strategy.
While the three-pointer may be the most valuable shot in terms of points per attempt, mid-range shots should not be completely disregarded. By incorporating a mix of three-pointers, mid-range shots, and low post shots, players can keep defenders guessing and create a more dynamic and unpredictable offense.
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Frequently asked questions
The mid-range is the space on a basketball court between the three-point line and the key (the rectangular area around the basket).
The distance of a mid-range shot varies, but it typically falls between 10 and 21 feet from the basket.
Mid-range shots are important because they add variety to a player's offensive arsenal. While three-pointers may be more valuable, mid-range shots can be effective in creating scoring opportunities and keeping the defense guessing.
Yes, mid-range shots are still utilized in the NBA, despite some commentators claiming that analytics suggest they are "bad shots." Players like Kevin Durant, Chris Paul, and Butler have successfully incorporated mid-range shots into their game.
