[Basketball]4 tips and practice methods to increase the success rate of layup shots Alpen Group Magazine | Alpen Group Magazine

There are many shots in basketball, such as jump shots and dunk shots. The most basic of these shots, and the one that is often used in matches, is the “layup shot.”
Here, we will introduce tips for increasing the success rate of basketball layup shots and examples of practice methods.

【table of contents】

■What is a layup shot in basketball?

■Tips for deciding on a layup shot

・Do it with less force

・Jump vertically

・Place the ball instead of throwing it

・Keep your eye on the goal

■How to practice layup shooting

■Once you have mastered the basics, it is recommended to increase variations.

■ Master the basics and aim to improve your scoring power

■What is a layup shot in basketball?

A layup shot is a shot taken by supporting the ball with the palms facing the ceiling and placing the ball from below the goal. A type of running shot made while running towards the goal, also called a “layup”.

A feature of the layup shot is that it is more reliable than other shots because the ball is released close to the hoop. It is often used in matches, and is a shot that beginners should learn.
The basic flow of how to do a layup is as follows.

[Flow of layup (when heading towards the goal from the right side)]

1. Run toward the goal while dribbling
2. catch the ball near the goal
3． Take steps in the order of right foot ⇒ left foot, and jump when you step with your left foot.
4. Pick up the ball and shoot towards the hoop

When heading toward the goal from the left side, step with your left foot, then your right foot, and jump with your right foot.

■Tips for deciding on a layup shot

The layup shot is a basic basketball technique, but even professional players can’t nail it 100% of the time. Especially if you are new to basketball, you will often miss it.
In order to increase the success rate of layup shots, it is important to learn the tricks. When performing layup shots, please keep the following four tips in mind.

・Do it with less force

When hitting a layup shot, it is important to relax, relax, and take rhythmic steps.
If you use unnecessary force, it will be difficult to get into the shooting motion, and the rhythm leading up to the shot will be disrupted.

If you are not used to it, you may end up straining unconsciously, but try to play in a relaxed state as much as possible.

・Jump vertically

A layup shot is a play in which the player takes steps while running towards the goal.
If you shoot while jumping forward with the momentum of your dribbling, the ball will also receive forward momentum. The ball that hits the backboard is more likely to bounce back, resulting in a much lower shot success rate.

Another key to increasing the success rate of your layup shot is to take a step and then jump vertically straight up, rather than forward.

If you can’t help but jump forward, remembering to pull up the knee opposite to the foot you took off with will make it easier to pull your whole body up, allowing you to firmly transmit the upward force to the ball.

・Place the ball instead of throwing it

Even if you’re jumping straight up, if you’re shooting like you’re throwing a ball, your layup shot success rate will be unstable.
When shooting a layup, it is important to keep your hands close to the hoop rather than throwing the ball. Instead of putting strength into your arms to shoot, just use the momentum of your jump to lift the ball.

Also, it is more difficult to put the ball directly into the ring, and the probability of a successful shot decreases. If you are a beginner, try to hit the ball against the backboard and into the ring.
If your steps, jumps, and how you use your body become stable, and you can release the ball at the same position, you will be able to make layup shots more consistently.

・Keep your eye on the goal

If you take your eyes off the goal before shooting, you won’t know where to place the ball. Make sure to keep your eyes on the goal until the end, while being conscious of the distance between you and the goal.

It is also important to keep the ball at a higher level than your waist from the moment you step until just before shooting. By holding the ball higher, you can more easily prevent it from being cut by your opponent.

■How to practice layup shooting

The trick to stabilizing the success rate of layup shots is to train your body to learn the unique movements of layup shots and increase reproducibility.
If you are a beginner basketball player and are having trouble making layup shots, start by practicing the “air layup shot,” which involves performing the layup shooting motion without holding the ball.

Once you get used to how to step, jump, and move your hands during the air layup shot, you can actually practice the layup shot with a ball.
There is no problem in increasing the speed of play once you are able to accurately perform layup shooting movements. It is important to repeat the shooting motion many times to get a feel for the layup shot.

■Once you have mastered the basics, it is recommended to increase variations.

There are many variations of layup shots. Once you have mastered the basic layup shot, you can add variations.
Typical layup shot variations include the following plays:

[Scoop shot (scoop shot)]

This is a shot in which the ball is released high to prevent the opponent’s defense from blocking. Because the ball is raised higher, it is more difficult than a regular layup shot.

[Reverse layup]

This is a play in which the ball passes under the goal and then shoots with one’s back to the hoop. It is also called layback or back shoot.
This is an effective technique when the defense tries to block you, and once you master it, you can expand your attack range.

[Double clutch]

This is a play in which the player lowers his hand in a shooting motion, switches the ball to the other hand, and then shoots. Similar to a reverse layup, it helps you get around the defense.
The difficulty level is high because the number of movements increases and the time spent in the air also increases.

[Hook layup]

This is a shot made with the body facing perpendicular to the goal or defense. By shooting with your hand far from the defense, you reduce the risk of being blocked.
The ball is controlled with one hand, so high handling skills are required to make a decision.

■ Master the basics and aim to improve your scoring power

The layup shot is one of the basic techniques in basketball. Although it is a highly reliable shot, it is not something that even professional players can absolutely nail.
Especially if you are just starting to play basketball, you may find it difficult.

In order to increase the success rate of layup shots, it is important to practice over and over again and let your body memorize the movements and sensations.
Master the layup by remembering these tips.

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