Four Tips for Improving Your Basketball Layup Shooting Skills

Shooting a basketball layup can be a simple process. It is probably one of the easiest things to do in basketball and can result in the most points when done correctly. Every player on the team should be able to shoot a basketball layup, and the result of constant layups by a team should be the pre factor of constant practice.

A good tip to use when shooting a basketball layup is to start out from a 45 degree angle (between the angle of the top of the key and the baseline). This will allow a player space to run and shoot the ball from a decent angle about two dribbles should be taken from this angle, and there should be enough space to jump.

The arm that should be used to shoot a basketball layup is the arm closest to the baseline. Even if one usually shoots with their right hand and they are shooting a layup with their left hand, it is imperative to use the left hand because it is closest to the baseline. The same rule applies if a player that usually uses their left hand shoots a layup, as the right hand should be used to shoot. This rule is in place because it prevents defenders from coming in and blocking shots easily.

A rule of thumb when shooting a basketball layup is to imagine a string holding the bottom of the elbow of the shooting elbow to the top of the knee closest to the baseline as well. This creates a uniform flow when running towards to the basket. The form of this shot is the most important part.

When proper form is achieved, then a player can easily go to and from the basket and just focus on the shot. Since each player will be coming from a 45 degree angle, it is ideal to shoot for the top corner (closest to the player) of the box on top of the rim. Almost every time, the ball will go in when it hits this position while shooting a basketball layup. It is fairly simple to do, but when pressure is applied, it is easy for a player to miss. Practice makes perfect, and practice makes permanent. It is important to do constant layup drills with a team, and some even with defenders present.

Sources:

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