Shooting the ball is the way to score in basketball and the main goal of offense.Shooting drills are necessary whenever you practice basketball because the more you shoot the better your form and your routine becomes. Doing shooting drills will give you a feel for the ball and the way you shoot as a player. Here are some shooting drills you can do as a team or individual.

(Team) Chase Down Layups:

Making a layup under pressure isn’t always easy. This drill is designed to help players practice finishing layups at full speed with defensive pressure from behind. More often than not, in youth basketball especially, games are decided by which team makes more layups.

Start this drill by setting up two lines at each of the court. The two defensive lines always start on each baseline, while each offensive line should start a little ahead on either sideline. Coaches can determine how far ahead based on the skill level of the players. The goal is to have players attempt a layup with a little pressure, not create a defensive drill. If you want to slow the defense down a bit to be sure it does not turn into a defensive drill, you can start the ball on the defense line and have them pass to the player making the layup.

Let each offensive line start with the ball. The coach will blow the whistle, then one person from each offensive and defensive line will take off. You want this drill to be at full speed, but without the defense overpowering the layup. The player on defense should also not foul the player making the layup. You don’t want any injuries. Be sure to switch sides so that players get experience and practice with both the left and right hand.

(Individual) Around the World:

A fun way to practice your shooting without a team is play around the world. You can even do this with a group of friends! Designate spots that form a semi-circle in front of the hoop. Usually it follows the key, but you can also spread it out to the 3-point line. Shoot the ball at each spot until you make it. If you miss keep shooting until you make it. You can practice other skills each time you miss or develop your endurance by making a penalty if you miss immediately or after a certain number. For example, if you miss at the first spot you have to make a layup. If you miss at the second spot, you have to take a foul shot. Make it interesting or keep it fun. Either way, practice makes perfect!

(Team) Full Court Shooting:

Run down the length of the court. Stop. Set. Shoot. Sounds easy, right? For some it might be, but for others it might not. For this drill, set up your players in three lines at each end of the court to utilize both hoops. Then line up three players in front of each line at mid-court. Have one ball for each line and start them on both baselines. Once the whistle blows, set a timer for a designated length of time for the drill to run. The players at mid-court will run towards the players with the basketball and call for the ball to be passed to them.

The players that pass the ball will run toward the opposite baseline and call for the ball, then shoot. It is up to each player where they would like to shoot the ball. Guards should typically mix it up, while forwards might choose mostly closer shot near the key. The shooter rebounds his/her own shot. The goal is to practice different shots ad shooting form. Have each player try to make as many shots as possible within the time frame.