10 Drills to Improve Your Shooting Accuracy

No matter your level — whether you’re shooting hoops in the backyard or training for competition — consistency is the key to great shooting. Accuracy isn’t just about natural talent; it’s built through repetition, form, and focus.

Here are 10 proven drills to sharpen your shot, build muscle memory, and boost confidence every time you step on the court.

1. Form Shooting (Close-Range Warm-Up)

Start every session close to the basket — no more than one metre away.Focus on perfecting your form, follow-through, and balance.Aim for 20–30 makes before stepping back. The goal is precision, not power.

Tip: Keep your eyes on the target, not the ball.

2. Around the World

Set up five shooting spots around the key — baseline, wing, top, opposite wing, and baseline.Make one from each spot before moving on. Miss? Repeat that spot.It builds consistency and control from all angles.

Variation: Challenge a friend to see who can make the full circuit first.

3. Spot Shooting

Choose five favourite shooting spots and take five shots from each.Track your makes and misses.Use the numbers to measure progress each week.

Pro Tip: Record your sessions — small adjustments in form make a big difference over time.

4. Catch and Shoot

Have a partner pass you the ball (or use a rebounder).Focus on quick release after the catch — just like a game situation.Repeat from different positions: wings, corners, and top of the key.

Goal: Speed and balance under pressure.

5. Free-Throw Focus

Free throws test your consistency and mindset.Take 10–20 shots per session, with your usual pre-shot routine.Reset between each attempt as if it’s a game-winning moment.

Track your percentage — aim for 80%+ accuracy over time.

6. Off-the-Dribble Shooting

Start at the three-point line, take one or two dribbles, pull up and shoot.This improves balance, rhythm, and transition control.Practice going both left and right — balance is everything.

Advanced: Add a step-back or crossover before shooting.

7. Bank Shot Practice

Position yourself at 45° angles on either side of the basket.Work on controlled bank shots off the backboard.A reliable bank shot adds versatility, especially in traffic.

Tip: Visualise the exact square on the glass you’re aiming for.

8. One-Minute Shooting Drill

Set a timer for 60 seconds and shoot continuously from one spot.Count makes and try to beat your record each round.It builds endurance and replicates game-time fatigue.

Variation: Move to a new spot after every 10 shots.

9. Fadeaway & Step-Back Shots

Start close, then gradually extend distance as form improves.These are high-skill moves, so focus on balance and landing softly.Don’t rush the motion — accuracy comes before power.

Pro Tip: Watch how your body shifts — stability equals precision.

10. Game-Speed Shooting

Simulate real plays: sprint to a spot, plant your feet, catch, and shoot.Add a defender or cone obstacle for realism.The more you train under game-like pressure, the more natural your shot becomes.

Final Whistle

Shooting accuracy is built, not born.Consistency, confidence, and commitment are your best tools — and every rep counts.Set up your own court with a Sporting Goat surface and train like the pros, rain or shine.

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