Jump Shot : Basketball Tips And Skills

In basketball, a jump shot is an attempt to score a basket by jumping, usually straight up, and in mid-jump, propelling the ball in an arc into the basket. It is accomplished by the player bringing his or her elbow up until it is aligned with the hoop, then sent towards the hoop in a high arc. It is considered the easiest shot to make from a distance. The purposes of the jump are to make it more difficult for the defender to block, and to put more power behind the shot. It is also usually accomplished with one hand by the NBA players. It is the most effective in open play but can prove to be hard when there is a taller player in front of you.


The answer to how to shoot a good basketball jump shot begins with strengthening your wrist.  There are tools that increase your wrist power.  Once you are hanging in the air, you will only carry whatever vertical momentum you gain when you initiate your jump. A strong wrist allows you to better control the ball when shooting in the air.  Next you need to increase your vertical jump. A better vertical jump gives you more power as well as more space in a jump shot.  Once you have set the basic stage for a good basketball jump shot, here comes the most important part: tuning your shooting form towards a jump shot.   Basically, the two biggest differences between set shots and jump shots are that the leg on the side of your shooting hand should be in front of your other leg to ensure better landing.  Your body must be more squared up with the hoop to avoid straining your body in the air. 

When to use a jump shot?
A jump shot is best used when you are charging down the court and cannot (or don't want to) dribble pass your opponent. Make a sudden stop with both feet landing at the same time. Transfer your forward momentum into vertical leap. Focus on the rim and shoot with techniques just like you would with set shots.
When your opponent gives you at least one step of space or you created one step of space by making a sudden stop while you dribble, that you have gained an edge over him in horizontal space. Jump shot allows you to beat the person vertically as well before you shoot. And if your wrist is strong enough it can also be as accurate as set shots.
Jerry Petitgoue: The Championship Feeder System - Shooting Drills for Youth Basketball Practice (DVD)

Pros-n-cons about doing a jump shot

Pros

Cons

Beats opponents vertically; reduce the chance of getting rejected by defenders The hang time in the air can buy the shooter more aiming time Brings the basketball hoop closer to the eye-level of shooters You get a clearer look at the basketball hoop with your defender out of the way It helps create more space for you because the defender will jump more often to defend your jump shot It gives you more time to stabilize the ball in the air Let's be honest also, it's shooting with flair

The demands on wrist and vertical jump power are substantial It wastes much more stamina than set shots Easier to become off-balance in the air Almost impossible to get your own rebound after shooting Runs the risk of stepping onto your defender's foot and strain your ankle Jumping commits yourself more in terms of movement options

How To Do A Jumper/ Jump Shot In Basketball?

General step-by-step guide to shooting a jump shot

·         Place your feet shoulder width apart.

·         Put your shooting arm up and bend your wrist at a 90-degree angle.

·         Place your other hand on the side to help stabilizing the ball.

·         Hold the ball above your head at your desired height

·         Elevate straight up while holding the ball tightly

·         Square up with the hoop when you have reached the highest point.

·         Extend your shooting arm up and snap your wrist to propel the ball towards the rim.

·         The ball should leave the fingertips and they point towards the ground afterwards.

·         Keep your eyes focused on a spot on the back of the rim

·         Maintain a good follow-through with the wrist