The Value of Free Throw Shots

It is often overlooked just how important free throws are in a basketball game. One of the most important statistics in a game is the amount of foul shots your team made out of  the number of foul shots they attempted. Making your foul shots can add an extra 20+ points in a game–Think about how crucial that is! Foul shots should be incorporated into a team’s game plan as a weapon– it’s a chance to take as much time as you need to shoot an uncontested shot!

As we all know, members of basketball team all bring a different asset. Depending on your size and position, what you do in a game or at practice is completely different from what other members of your team do in a game or practice. For example, a point guard has to worry about handling pressure and running an offense while a forward will focus on making a low post move and going strong to the basket. The two positions are very different in what they focus on and what skills they develop at practice. That being said, one skill that should be consistent with every player is foul shooting. From starting point guard to tenth man off the bench, every single player needs to be good at foul shooting. Foul shooting is the only thing in basketball that will always be the same over and over and over again. It’s the one skill that the offensive player has complete control over. The line is the same range at every basket, there is no defense to react to, and no movement until the ball has either left your hands or hit the rim (depending on the official rules of the level you are playing at).
Routine: When shooting a free throw, every person should have there own style and routine. Once you develop this, it should be consistent every time that you step up to the line. Your routine is something that should remain the same throughout your career as a player. It will eventually become automatic and you won’t even think about what you are doing. Your routine should give you a second to relax and clear your head before shooting. Don’t rush it! You have ten LONG seconds after the ref hands you the ball. Take your time and get yourself into your comfort zone before shooting.
Mind over Matter: A free throw shot is 90% mental. Stepping up to the line in a close game, in a gym that you aren’t familiar with, filled with spectators is not the same as in your home gym with no one in the gym and no pressure. Don’t think! The more you think, the more your shot will be affected- at any level. Train yourself to clear your mind before you shoot, this starts at practice. Practicing will build muscle memory, let your body do the work and don’t think. Be confident! You will build your confidence through practicing your shot consistently.