How to Become a Good Jump Shooter

Last Updated: June 3, 2022

Hoping to perfect your jump shot before your next game? It's simpler than you think. A good jump shot is compact and has little or no extra movement—the key is focusing on the essential aspects of shooting form, and then practicing this form over and over again until it is automatic. We've put together plenty of tips and tricks to help you get started, so you can improve your jump shot in no time.

1

Start in a wide stance.

Bend your knees and square your shoulders to the basket. Always make sure you are balanced when shooting.

2

Jump straight up.

Never jump to the side, forward or backwards (If you are not trying to).

3

Explode upward and shoot the ball.

Make sure that you're shooting the ball on the way up.

4

Keep your elbow straight while you shoot.

That means your elbow is always pointed in the direction of the basket.

5

Flick your wrist straight.

Hold your follow-through until the ball goes through the hoop. All of the ball's momentum and spin should come from your wrist. The power for the shot is provided by your legs.

6

Shoot the ball in a high arc.

The ball should be at its highest point 2/3 of the way towards the rim. When shooting, think of your shot as going up and out. The balance of the two is what makes a jump shot go in.

7

Snap your wrist as you release the ball.

Your hand should look like you are about to put it in a cookie jar. This movement gives the ball backspin.

8

Focus on the BEEF acronoym.

B is for balance, E is for eye, E is for Elbow, and F is for Following through. Remember to always face the basket and be balanced.

9

Land facing the rim.

Never land facing the wall or have your feet pointing anywhere else than the rim.

Community Q&A

Question

What should I do if I have a weak shooting-arm?

Community Answer

You need to do some pushups to get stronger.
Question

What can I do if I don't have the strength to shoot the basketball from far range?

Community Answer

Work on your leg strength. Your legs should provide all of the shot's power. Do leg exercises like squats and lunges.
Question

What if I don't have enough arm strength?

Community Answer

Try getting power from your legs as you jump upwards. You'll also need to practice on arm strength, so start shooting from close under the rim, working your way backwards.

Warnings

A good jump shot will not come easily. It takes repetitive practice and good form to become an accurate shooter. You can't expect to make all of your shots.

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Shooting Drills

Start from 3 to 5 feet (0.9 to 1.5 m) out from the rim and shoot about 25 shots that are made. As you start making these close range shots your confidence and form will both improve. After taking these shots, start shooting a bit further away from the rim in various positions on the court and make around 100 shots in practice. However, you must remember that you shouldn't feel as if your shot was forced. This happens when you start taking shots that are beyond your range. This will not only mess up your form but also make you less confident of your shot in game time situations.