Shooting Free Throws like an All-Star

I grew up shooting a basketball. I loved the sport. I was also very blessed to have played for good coaches who took the time to teach me effective basketball skills. One of the keys to developing into a successful basketball player at any level is to master the fundamentals. When considering which fundamental skills provide the building blocks to player development, most lists would include free throw shooting. These techniques lay the groundwork for continued success shooting a basketball. The earlier a player starts practicing this basketball drill, the better he or she will perform.

The following technique will help you move towards being a more complete player, practice these four steps and you will be well on your way to effecively shooting a basketball.

Establish a Balanced Stance

This is accomplished by pointing your toes towards the basket, and spreading your feet apart until they are parallel with your shoulders on each side. Once this is done, move the foot that is located on the same side as your shooting hand about one foot forward. Make sure to bend your knees when shooting. This will provide you a balanced base, which impacts accuracy. Establishing a balanced stance will help you to improve your basketball skills.

Place Your Eyes on The Front of the Rim

Focus on the rim. Make sure to block out all distractions. Take a few deep breaths, while visualizing the ball sailing through the basket. Rehearse this basketball drill in your mind. You may also choose to dribble the ball a couple of times to prepare yourself. Whatever routine you develop, be consistent every time that you approach a free throw.

Point Your Elbow

Your shooting hand will naturally extend where your elbow is pointed. If you elbow is pointed to the side, then it is unnatural for the ball to launch forward when you shoot. Make sure that your shooting elbow is pointed at the rim. Also, make sure that your elbow is elevated to about chin level, keeping the ball up above your shoulders. Proper form will help you improve your skill in shooting a basketball.

Follow Through

The basketball should be held in your shooting hand on your fingertip pads, not your palms. You should be able to slip a sheet of paper between your palm and the ball. Your non-shooting hand should rest gently on the ball, as it is only there to steady. When you shoot the ball, do not push the ball, rather allow it to roll off of your fingertips. "Flick" your wrist, creating a backspin and extend your arm all the way trough. Finally, try to launch the ball with an arch, instead of on a direct line. These basketball skills will help you to dramatically increases the chance that you will make it.

Practice, Practice, Practice

There is no substitution for practicing the basketball drill. For players who are younger and smaller, I recommend starting them in a little closer to the rim, working their way further back as they master the closer shot. The more they shoot using proper technique, the easier and more natural it will become. Keep in ind that every great shooter was not born that way. Repetition, perseverance, and consistency make up the ingredients to success in just about any endeavor. Shooting a basketball is no different. You will learn to love the game, and the game will always love you back.

Steps To Remember
* Bend Your Knees
* Eyes on the Rim
* Elbow Should Be In
* Follow-Through

Sources
http://www.yboa.org/
http://www.basketball-plays-and-tips.com/basketball-shooting.html