3 Valuable Shooting Drills from a Basketball Coaching Clinic

Valuable Shooting Drills #2: Screen and Curl Shooting

Objective: To develop shooting skills off the dribble and from screens, simulating game-like situations.

Instructions:

1. Setup: Place a cone to act as a screen. Position a passer near the top of the key and the shooter near the wing.
2. Execution:
   • The shooter starts by moving off the cone (screen) and curling towards the basket.
   • The passer delivers the ball to the shooter, who then takes a jump shot.
   • If the shot is missed, the shooter rebounds and takes a follow-up shot.
3. Variation: Alternate between shooting off the curl, dribbling to the paint, and baseline shots to keep the drill dynamic.

Tips for Coaches:

• Teach players the importance of reading the defense when coming off screens.
• Discuss different theories on following shots – some players believe every shot will go in, while others should follow their shot to improve rebounding chances.
• Encourage quick decision-making and fluid movements.

Valuable Shooting Drills #3: Conditioning and Shooting Combo

Objective: To combine conditioning with shooting practice, ensuring players can perform under fatigue.

Instructions:

1. Setup: Position a rebounder under the basket and the shooter at the free-throw line.
2. Execution:
   • The shooter runs from the free-throw line to the baseline and back.
   • Upon returning, the shooter receives a pass and takes a 15-foot jump shot.
   • Repeat this sequence, increasing the number of down-and-back runs each time (e.g., run once, shoot; run twice, shoot; run thrice, shoot).
   • Ensure the shooter rebounds their own shot if missed and quickly returns to the drill.

Tips for Coaches:

• Focus on proper shooting form even when players are tired.
• Use this drill to build endurance and simulate game-like conditions where players need to shoot accurately while fatigued.
• Adjust the distance as well as number of runs based on the players’ fitness levels.

Conclusion

Incorporating these three shooting drills into your practice sessions will help your players improve their shooting accuracy, movement, and rebounding skills. And remember, consistency and repetition are key. Encourage your players to practice these drills regularly and watch their performance on the court soar. Also, for more coaching tips and resources, visit teachhoops.com and join our community of coaches dedicated to excellence.