Expert: Michael Muro - 12/12/2005

Question
how would you suggest teaching a mighty mite player to shoot
with "one hand" rather than the favored (and ineffective) chest
pass way of shooting. I have one player that has the strength to
reach the basket from the free throw line but for some reason
cannot seem to channel it into an effective one hand shot. Any
advice? Thanks.

Answer
Hi Mitch,

My first question to you would be how old is this mighty mite? I wouldn't push to hard yet for the one hand shot as you don't want to take the fun out of the game. If he enjoys shooting two hands for right now and is having fun then let him be. You can maybe make a game out of practicing. Have him shoot 5 shots with two hands from a certain spot and then shoot 5 more one handed shots from the same spot. You can do this from as many spots as you see fit or until he gets bored. Keep score and let him figure out for himself that the two handed shot is ineffective. Another thing to remember is that the power for a shot is generated from the legs by bending your knees. Here is a good site that covers fundamentals and it might have a few tips for you....Good luck with the mighty mite! Remember keep it fun for him....

http://www.coachesclipboard.net/SetShot.shtml

http://www.basketballtips.net/shooting.htm