Free throw shooting is an important part of playing basketball because making every free throw count means you gain vital points that can make your team or lose. Free throws are awarded in the game of basketball when a player is fouled in the act of shooting. A person is given 2 free throws he is fouled in the act of shooting anywhere inside the 3-point line and 3 free throws he is fouled in the act of shooting outside the 3-point line. The free throw line is 15 feet away from the basket and as the player attempts to make his free throw, no defenders are allowed to block the shot. Below is list of how you can properly execute your free throw.
1. Line Up for the Shot – when you line up for the shot, you place your lead foot directly lined up to the center of the rim. You then square your shoulders to the hoop and make sure that your shooting elbow towards the basket. Place the ball on your hand with your shooting hand facing the basket while your non-shooting hand is balancing the ball.
2. Relax and Focus – the mental aspect in shooting a free throw must never be underestimated, especially when the points made from the free throw shots are crucial in winning the game. When attempting to make the free throw make sure to relax and clear your mind. Bouncing the ball a few times will help you to time your shot as well help you clear your mind.
3. Take the Shot – as soon as you are ready to take your shot, try to bend your knees while using a down and up motion from your legs to give your shot momentum. Try aiming your shot towards the front of the rim, and in a fluid-like motion, straighten your knees while releasing your shot. Make sure to give your shot a follow through as you attempt to flick the ball with your wrist to propel the ball towards the hoop.
4. Practice, Practice, Practice – making one free throw is fine, but you need to practice harder so that you will be able to pull 2 out of 2. Pulling this off often simply requires you to practice doing this shot repetitively. Doing the shot over and over again will allow you to develop muscle memory wherein your arm, hand, and wrist memorize the needed motion resulting in the correct form. In fact you can even practice doing the shooting motion even without a ball.
For more information about this topic you can visit some of the following resources:
- ihoops.com/practice-time/shooting/shoot-free-throws-like-the-pros
- tutorials.com/05/0596/0596
- playsportstv.com/basketball/basketball-shooting_how-to-shoot-free-throws
