How to Improve Your Jump Shot

In these days of acrobatic dunks and knee-breaking dribbling, basketball has evolved into a highly entertaining sport with some really great players. In spite of all this, the fundamentals of a game winning offense haven't changed. In particular, the basic jump shot maintains a prominent place in any basketball player's arsenal. Here are a few simple step you can take you can improve your jump shot and enhance your offensive game.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Bend your knees and jump. Some players merely hop instead of jumping to make their shot. Bending your knees and jumping gives you the height you need to perform the shot successfully. Practice the shot without the ball in order to focus on bending your knees and jump as straight and high as you can.

2. Let go of the ball at the top of your jump and follow through completely. Be sure to shoot the ball with your shooting hand and guide it with the other. If done properly, the ball will have a nice little spin as it glides off of your fingers and into the net.

3. Use the backboard to your advantage. That little square on the backboard is there for a reason. If you aim for the back of the rim, then you'll decrease your chances of shooting air balls. You don't always have to hit "nothing but net." A bank shot is okay, too.

4. Practice your jump shot technique in a number of scenarios. Take shots from several places on the court using the backboard as well as the rim only. Also try taking shots off the pass or while being guarded by a defender. This will help you to be more prepared for actual game play.