FREE THROWS

I believe our poor free throw shooting is the result of two things: poor mechanics and an inability to control your mental game.  I am firmly convinced that the only thing limiting you - is yourself!  The obstacles to success exist more in your mind than anywhere else.

Once you master the basic mechanics of the free throw, the rest is mental.  The mental side of sports is often more difficult to master than the physical side.

The importance of repetition in free throw shooting cannot be overemphasized. You have to do everything the same way - every single time.  

A free throw is the only thing in basketball that IS consistent.  Think about it, you shoot from the exact same spot - every single time.  You shoot without defensive pressure - every single time.  You have a full 10 seconds to relax and shoot the ball – every single time.

Okay, let’s take it one step further.  How can we create even more consistency?  

Let’s start with the ball.  Let’s start by finding the little round rubber inflation hole and pointing your middle finger at it.  Then place your thumb on the channel (or groove) of the ball.  Doing this serves two purposes.  The first is to hold the ball the exact same way – every single time.  Secondly, it provides you an opportunity to focus and lock-in your concentration on something other than the hard foul you just took, or the score of the game, or how tired you may be. Remember that the mental side of sports is just as important as the physical side.

By placing your hand on the ball in the exact same way – every single time, you have in essence created a free throw ritual.  A free throw shooting ritual is valuable because it gives you something to focus on other than the pressure you are under.

Your free throw ritual should be close to the following:

Step 1: Feet Square to the line.

Step 2: Bounce the ball once or twice.

Step 3: Put your thumb in the channel, your middle finger pointing at the inflation hole.

Step 4: Make sure your elbow is tucked in rather than out.

Step 5: Bend your knees.

Step 6: Eyes on the Target.

Step 7: Shoot and follow through.

How long will it take for this method of free throw shooting to feel comfortable? It depends on how much you practice and how deeply you commit to adopting this method.

The mechanics of free throw shooting can be learned.  Combine proper mechanics with focus and concentration and you will be astounded at what you can achieve.

Do you want to remain comfortable with the wrong mechanics and a low free throw percentage?  Or are you willing to be uncomfortable (for a short period of time) with the right mechanics, to eventually improve?

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