In basketball, shot selection is often overlooked by both players and fans. However, it is very important in determining a team’s overall performance. The ability to make smart decisions about which shots to take can significantly impact a team’s scoring potential, increasing their chances of success during games.
The decision-making process that occurs in a split second during a basketball game, wherein players determine the best shot to take based on various factors such as defensive positioning, offensive options, and personal skills is referred to as shot selection. A successful shot selection maximizes the probability of scoring points for the team.
One key aspect of shot selection is players recognizing their areas of specialization. This involves understanding their strengths and weaknesses and strategically selecting shots that align with their skills.
By recognizing their areas of specialization, through stat-based analysis, players can make informed decisions about the type of shots they should take and when to take them, to increase their and the team’s shooting efficiency and productivity per possession.
Shooting percentage and shot attempts can be significantly improved by taking the first opportunity within a player’s specialized area. For example, if a player has a high 3-point shooting percentage, he should aim to take open shots beyond the arc to capitalize on his skill.
As a coach, I emphasize the importance of players putting in extra hours to improve their 3-point shooting percentage, shooting skills, and finishing around the basket in multiple ways.
By dedicating time and effort to enhance and specialize their skills, players earn the confidence and my green light to take such shots during games. Developing a reliable outside shot can be a game-changer, as it forces opponents to stretch their defense, creating openings and mismatch situations that can be explored through drives and inside scoring.
Poor shot selection can have detrimental effects on a team’s performance. It can result in wasted possessions, lost leads, and ultimately, lost games. For example, settling for contested jump shots early in the shot clock instead of working for a higher-percentage shot can disrupt the offensive flow and productivity allowing the opposing team to gain momentum.
When players make thoughtful decisions about their shots, they become active participants in the team’s offensive strategy. This enhances trust among teammates and fosters a sense of collaboration and unity, leading to more effective ball movement and higher-quality scoring opportunities.
I adopted a shot selection rule based on statistical analysis of the player’s shooting skills. By doing this, the player understands that taking a shot from a particular area depends on and will vary according to his proven ability to shoot the ball.
The importance of proper shot selection cannot be understated. It is essential for players to continuously work on improving their skills, particularly 3-point shooting, to earn the opportunity to take specialized shots during games.
The impact of shot selection extends beyond individual performances, as it contributes to team cohesiveness, chemistry, and tactical discipline.
A team that embraces the power of proper shot selection, will increase its true scoring potential on the court and will have a better chance of winning games and championships against any opponent.
Coach Carvalho is a basketball coach with over 30 years of experience developing players and leading programs to excellence in the US and abroad. A true teacher of the game.
Below is a sample of Coach Carvalho’s career:
- Brazilian Men’s Olympic Team Assistant Coach
- 7 years as D-1 Assistant Coach at UAB
- Bahrain Men’s National Team Head Coach
- 25+ years of International coaching experience
- Named Master Coach by the Bahrain Olympic Committee
- Member of the United Arab Emirates Basketball Association Development Board
- Author of basketball books and eBooks in English and Portuguese
Coach Carvalho is the Director of Instruction and Development at WA Sports Consulting, a basketball training and consulting company that offers services and consultancy to players, coaches, and organizations of all levels.
Coach C’s clinics and camps have helped hundreds of players and coaches improve their playing and coaching skills. Join us and experience the difference.
http://www.coachcbasketball.com | mktg@wasportsconsulting.com
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