Is your shooting stance reducing your shooting consistency? Do you have a tendency to miss left or right? We may be able to help you! This article is dedicated to helping you identify the proper shooting stance so you can shoot with greater accuracy and reliability.
Historically, most coaches taught their players to shoot with their shoulders and feet square to the basket. Today, however, it is becoming more common to see an offset shooting stance being taught. Not everyone has made the transition, though. And for those who have, the next question is: what is the proper angle for an offset stance? Let’s break it all down and explain why an offset stance is superior to a square shooting stance.
The Superiority of an Offset Shooting Stance
When shooting with feet and shoulders square to the basket, the arm must extend slightly across the body to align with the hoop. This added movement in the upper body creates inconsistencies in the shot. Essentially, this stance “binds” the shoulder as the shooter tries to align the elbow and hand with the target during the shot and release.
In contrast, an offset stance allows the shooting shoulder to move more freely. This stance keeps the shoulder, elbow, and hand in alignment, resulting in a more natural shooting motion and a more consistent shot.
Still a Skeptic?
Let’s prove it. Stand directly in front of a target about the size of a basketball hoop. Keep your feet and shoulders square to the target. Now extend both arms directly in front of you so they’re parallel. You’ll notice that your shooting hand points toward the edge of the target, not directly at the center. To align your shooting arm with the target, you have to rotate your shoulders slightly. This additional adjustment is what an offset shooting stance eliminates.
Body Alignment Is a Must
To create an effective offset stance, you must maintain proper alignment of your feet, hips, and shoulders. Start by standing square to the basket. Then move your offhand foot back—for a right-handed shooter, this means pulling your left foot back. Keep your shoulders aligned with your hips and feet. Gradually adjust your stance until you find the angle that allows your shooting shoulder and elbow to move freely while staying aligned with the basket.
Determining the Proper Offset Angle
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all angle for an offset stance. Each shooter must find a stance that feels comfortable and natural. Many shooting programs attempt to prescribe a specific stance, but these often fail to account for individual differences.
The key is to achieve a stance where your shooting hand and elbow align naturally with the basket. Once this alignment feels comfortable, ensure that your feet, hips, and shoulders remain in line throughout the shooting motion. Removing unnecessary movements is critical to consistency. The simpler and straighter your motion toward the basket, the more consistent your shot will become.
Shooters Shoot
Adopting an offset shooting stance can improve your consistency, but success ultimately comes down to practice. Shooters shoot—in the driveway, at the park, in the gym—anywhere they can get shots up. To become a great shooter, you need to practice relentlessly. Click Here for other shooting drills you can do at home!
Your stance, release, and body alignment are foundational to your success. Through consistent practice, these elements become muscle memory. When the game is on the line, your shot will be automatic. You’ll be Automatic!
BtL
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