How to shoot freethrows

There are ways to improve the accuracy of your free throws while playing basketball. You will score more points, impress your coaches, parents or talent scouts if you give yourself all the tools you need to make a noticeable difference in you're free throw percentage

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• time
• practice
• basketball

1. Find a basketball hoop that allows you to practice shooting free throws without being distracted by others. Try going in the morning or at a time when the court is not being used. Ideally bring a friend that can help pass the ball to you after you shoot.

2. Decide what you want to do before you shoot a free throw. Some people like to spin the ball. Some people like to bounce the ball once or twice. Some people take a deep breath. The important thing is to practice the same sequence of events every time. If you step up to the free throw line, dribble once and take a deep breath before shooting, do it every single time.

3. When you have practiced the same ritual over and over, it becomes very comfortable and allows you to concentrate on making the actual basketball shot. Practice, practice practice.

4. Give yourself a goal. Make 10 free throws in a row before you go home. Try shooting free throws after running sprints or up and down the court. This simulates a game-situation where you might be tired and winded. The more you practice, the better you will get and the higher your percentage will be.
   Some people find it helpful to visualize the ball going into the hoop. Free throws are a great way to show that hard work and practice pays off.

Tips & Warnings

• get into a zone that allows you to block out distractions and focus on putting the basketball through the hoop