How to Shoot a Hook Shot in Basketball

The hook shot is a wonderful way to shoot the basketball, especially if you are shooting over a taller opponent. The reason for this is because you are shooting the ball from behind you, and the defender will have a hard time blocking the shot without fouling. There are a number of different forms of the hook shot and each of them have advantages.

The Traditional Hook Shot

The oldest and most recognized form of the hook shot is the traditional one where the player simply pivots on their foot and shoots a sweeping hook. This hook shot was made famous by a number of players including Kareem Abdul Jabbar and Bill Walton. Over the years, this shot has become a bit more rare due to the long set up for the shot. By the time a player actually gets into the "wind up" the shot is often knocked away by a defender that drops down to help on defense. This shot can still be highly effective if you have a player that is tall and well versed in when to use it.

The Running Hook Shot

This shot was made famous by Magic Johnson during the NBA finals when he used it over and over against the Boston Celtics in the 80s. The shot is basically like the traditional hook shot, but is shot while driving towards are away from the basket. It is not a stationary hook shot like the traditional. The shot was most effectively used when driving across the lane parallel to the basket. The running hook shot is still used today, though not very often.

The Baby Hook Shot

The baby hook is the most common form of the hook shot used in today's game. This is a great shot for a low post player that is trying to get off a high percentage shot. Usually, the player will be backed in low and will simply turn and do a quick hop while shooting from behind the ear. This shot is usually tough to defend or block because the shooter blocks off the defender with his body. Also, the angle is tough to defend.

Tips for Shooting Better Hook Shots

- Make sure you practice the shot often because repetition is the only way to master the hook shot. This is one of the toughest shots in basketball to master and practice is paramount.

- Never shoot the hook shot when you have players on both sides of you. Defenders are very good now about reaching down and helping out on defense.

- Do not raise your non-shooting hand to block off your defender or you will get called for a foul.

- Practice the hook shot with both hands. It is vital to know how to shoot with both hands in today's game.