Six Keys to Quality Shooting Work

Working on your game is not an easy thing, but below are tips from Boston Celtics assistant coach Kevin Eastman to help you work on your overall practice habits as well as some shooting drills that can help you become an improved shooter.

The general theme of these drills is to work hard and at game speed, while also maintaining form to your shot. Work on these skills and we have no doubt that you will become a better player.

1. Catch & Shoot: Catch and shoot is the best way to start a good shooting workout. It allows you to get a rhythm and work on form with minimal movement. Simply pick a few spots, usually five going around the horn, and shoot ten shots from each spot. Have a rebounder give you good outlet passes and remember that although you're not moving at a rapid pace around the floor, it is important to shoot shots at game speed.

2. Cut - Catch - Shoot: Now that you have a good sweat and rhythm going, it is time to move to cut-catch-shoot. In this drill you will need a passer at the top of the key to give you the entry pass. Start foul line extended and use a V-cut (running to the low block and cutting back out towards the wing) to get yourself open. Remember to set the defender up when making the V. You want to walk the defender down to the low block, then quickly cut back out. After receiving the entry pass, square up and shoot your shot. Do this drill on both sides of the court at game speed.

3. Shots off the Dribble: This drill is similar to #2, but this time after catching the entry pass, take a few dribbles right and pull up for your shot, then repeat going to the left. As always, make sure you go game speed.

4. Perfect the Form on all Shooting Drills: Another key to a good shooting workout is using proper form on each drill. That's why we want to go game speed, so we are used to using perfect form in game conditions. If you don't go at game speed, when you do get into a game, your form will be off.

5. Contest all Shots: These drills will be much more productive if you can find a partner to contest your shots. In game situations, you most likely will have a hand in your face when you shoot, so practicing that way will allow you to adjust to game situations. If you cant find a partner, use a chair or trashcan to shoot behind.

6. Game Shots From Game Spots At Game Speed: Game speed has been a theme throughout this workout plan. Practicing at game speed is vital to your workout regimen. If you don't work on game situations at the same speed as you would in a game, then your practice will not translate to games, and you are basically wasting your time.

Coach Eastman has a basketball web-site and is full of great information. Check out his clinic called Coaching U Live, that is held in Las Vegas, July 20 & 21. A must for the basketball coaching junkie...