Jump shot

While making a jump shot, the player jumps as high as possible with the ball and only takes the shot as soon as he has arrived at the highest point. The goal of a jump shot or jumper is to prevent the defender from blocking the ball while a setshot often takes time to build and is easier to defend. A jump shot is possible from position, after a dribble or after catching a pass in motion.

From every distance up to and including the three point, this shot can be taken. In practice, it will become apparent that distant shots are not feasible for everyone. The advice, therefore, is to point out to the players in the ‘learning phase’ that they concentrate on the form of shooting and then in the vicinity of the basket or bucket.

Essence jump shot

• Optimum jump height
• To feel the dead point to be able to use accurate arm action
• Shoot relaxed
• Good arm, hand, eye coordination

Execution of a jump shot

• Be in balance with your body towards the basket
• Bend your knees and keep looking at the basket
• A hand under the ball, another hand on the side
• Keep the elbow straight
• Jump up and take the shot at the highest point, fold the wrist and approach the ring
• Behind your ball to catch the rebound!
• Practice this both stationary and from dribble or from a pass!

If the jump shot precedes a movement (2 steps rhythm or dribble), the necessary attention should be paid to the footwork. The simplest option is to use a jump stop in these situations. If stopped in 2 counts, the step / step is the basis for all follow-up operations.

Teaching a jump shot

• Use marking, close and perpendicular to the basket practice
• Practicing jumping power, without a ball
• When jumping forward, drop off for a passive defender
• Backwards: trainer place the hands against the hips of the shooter
• Trainer for the shooter with an arm stretched at chest height, raising the ball without hitting the arm
• Practicing timing: jump shot
• Elbow stop by the trainer at the shot

When learning the jump shot, the ‘BEEF’ method is often used: Balance, Eyes, Elbow, Follow through

• Body balance before and after the shot
• Eye contact with the ring
• Elbow under the ball
• Follow through