Video:How to Shoot a Basketball

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Transcript:How to Shoot a Basketball

Hi, my name is Keith Stephens for About.com Parenting. Today I'm going to show you how to properly shoot a basketball. Let's get started.

Items Needed to Shoot a Basketball

Before we begin, here's what you will need:

• a basketball
• a safe level area with a hard surface
• a basketball goal

Hold the Basketball Properly

First, let's look at the proper position in holding a basketball.

Hold the sides of the ball with both hands. Now, as you go to shoot, put your shooting hand on top of the ball and your other hand slightly on the side of the ball.

The side hand is very important in keeping the ball in your shooting hand.

Release the Basketball

When you release the ball, you want to have backspin on it. It's believed that the backspin will keep the ball on the rim longer in case of a miss, which allows your offensive rebounders more time to get to the ball.

It is easier to control your shot with backspin.

How to Do a Set Shot

We are going to look at the two most basic shots: the set shot and the jump shot.

The set shot is mostly used at the foul line. You square your body with the rim, you bend your knees, and as you straighten up, you direct the ball toward the rim, guiding it with your fingers.

How to Do a Jump Shot

The jump shot is the most common outside shot in basketball. When your ready to shoot, you square your body with the rim. As you jump into the air, you follow through with your shot to the goal.

Thanks for watching. To learn more, visit us on the Web at parenting.about.com.