In basketball, players use various shots based on the situation, court position, and their skills. Here are some of the most common types of shots in basketball:
1. Layup
A layup is a close-range shot players take near the basket while moving toward the hoop. Players often use one hand to bank the ball off the backboard into the basket.
This motion involves jumping and extending the arm, ensuring the ball goes over defenders.
Usage
Layups are common in fast breaks. In these, a player or team rushes down the court to score before the defense is ready.
In half-court settings, layups are also common when a player drives past a defender to the basket.
Advantages
- High Percentage Shot: Layups, being close to the basket, are often seen as high-percentage shots. This means they likely succeed.
- Versatility: Layups have many techniques like the reverse layup and underhand scoop.
- Draws Fouls: Driving for a layup pressures the defense, often causing fouls and extra free throws.
Challenges
Layups are high-percentage shots, but taller or athletic defenders can make them hard to execute. To counter this, players learn techniques to shoot from varied angles or shield with the rim.
Notable players
Almost all basketball players use layups. However, players like George Gervin stood out for unique techniques like the finger roll.
2. Jump shot
A jump shot is when a player releases the ball toward the basket while jumping, usually at the jump’s highest point.
In this motion, one hand guides the ball while the other pushes it.
Usage
The jump shot is versatile. Players can take it anywhere on the court, from near the hoop to three-point range.
Players often use the jump shot after getting a pass in a good shooting spot or after dribbling past a defender.
Advantages
- Hard to Block: Releasing the ball at the jump’s peak makes the shot harder for defenders to block.
- Versatility: Players use the jump shot off the dribble, after screens, or in catch-and-shoot plays.
- Range: Mastering the jump shot lets players score from many court areas, pushing the defense.
Challenges
Proper form is crucial for a consistent jump shot. Good form means having a balanced stance and keeping eyes on the target, often the basket’s back rim.
It also involves a smooth shot, a high release, and a hand follow-through.
Notable players
NBA legends and current stars, such as Larry Bird, Ray Allen, Stephen Curry, and Klay Thompson are among those recognized for their jump shots.
The technique, consistency, and clutch performance of these players set them apart.
3. Free Throw
A free throw is a shot from the free-throw line.
This line is 15 feet, or about 4.57 meters, from the backboard. The player stands inside a designated semi-circle and shoots the ball without any defensive interference.
The player must stay still when shooting and can’t step over the line until the ball hits the rim or backboard.
Each successful free throw is worth one point.
Usage
Free throws are awarded to players who are fouled in specific situations:
- Players get free throws if fouled while shooting and if the shot misses.
- Players get free throws if the other team has too many fouls in a period, based on league rules.
- Fouls like technical, flagrant, or intentional ones often lead to free throws.
Advantages
- Uncontested Points: With no defense, free throws are a great chance for players to score.
- Game Strategy: In tight games, teams use fouls and free throws as a tactic, especially near the end.
Challenges
Even without defense, free throws can be tough under pressure. Crowd silence, game stakes, or a player’s stress can impact their shot.
For free throws, being consistent matters. Players have routines before shots, like bouncing the ball or deep breaths. This routine helps them focus and maintain a consistent shooting form.
Notable players
Many players excel at free throws. Yet, players like Steve Nash, Steph Curry, and Dirk Nowitzki stand out for their top free-throw rates.
However, some top players find free throws tough. This led to tactics where teams foul weak shooters, known as “Hack-a-Shaq”.
4. Three-Point Shot
A three-point shot is taken from beyond the three-point arc. This arc is a semi-circle on the court, set at a fixed distance from the basket.
A shot made from beyond this arc gives the team three points. In contrast, shots inside the arc earn two points.
Usage
The three-point shot has become an integral part of modern basketball strategy. Teams use the three-point shot to stretch the defense, make space on the floor, and close score gaps fast.
The three-point shot is often taken in catch-and-shoot plays, after dribbling, or if the defense leaves a player open.
Advantages
- Higher Point Value: The three-point shot gives an extra point, which is crucial in close games.
- Spacing: The threat of the three-point shot forces defenses to extend outwards, creating lanes for driving and passing.
- Momentum Shift: Making a three-pointer boosts momentum, firing up both the team and fans.
Challenges
The three-point shot is harder due to its longer distance from the basket compared to other shots. Defenses often focus on defending the three-point shot, especially against skilled shooters.
Notable players
The NBA has seen many exceptional three-point shooters over the years. Ray Allen, Reggie Miller, and Stephen Curry changed the game with their three-point skills.
Many believe Curry changed the league’s focus to the three-pointer because of his great range and skill.
5. Hook Shot
In a hook shot, a player shoots the ball with one arm in a sweeping motion. The shooter typically keeps their body between the ball and the defender, using the body as a shield.
The shooter bends the elbow of the shooting arm and releases the ball with a wrist flick, arcing it toward the basket.
Usage
The hook shot is mainly taken near the basket, in an area called the post. Players often use the hook shot after moving their defender backward or getting the ball in a good spot.
The hook shot is a favored move for taller players or those bigger than their defenders.
Advantages
- Difficult to Defend: The hook shot’s sweeping motion and the way the shooter uses their body make it hard to block.
- Versatility: The shot can be executed with either hand, allowing players to adapt based on their position relative to the basket.
- High Release Point: For tall players, the hook shot’s high release adds to its difficulty to defend.
Challenges
The hook shot requires practice to master, especially when it comes to accuracy. The sweeping motion can be less intuitive than a standard jump shot.
The hook shot is less effective for shorter players when facing taller defenders.
Notable players
NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is famous for his hook shot. He used a special version called the “skyhook” very effectively. It’s one of the most unstoppable shots in basketball history. His skyhook had an exaggerated, almost straight-arm release, giving it a high arc.
Other players, like Magic Johnson and Hakeem Olajuwon, also used versions of the hook shot well in their careers.
6. Dunk
A dunk, or slam dunk, is when a player jumps and scores by putting the ball in the hoop. They can use one or both hands. During a dunk, the player’s hand(s) often touch the rim.
Dunks can be simple one-handed jams or acrobatic aerial moves.
Usage
Dunks are commonly seen during fast breaks when a player has a clear path to the basket.
Players also dunk in half-court settings. This happens especially when they find an opening to drive or get an alley-oop pass from a teammate.
Advantages
- High Percentage Shot: Dunks are close to the basket and forceful, so they often succeed.
- Momentum Builder: A powerful or stylish dunk can energize a team and its fans, potentially shifting the momentum of a game.
- Intimidation: A dominant dunk can demoralize opponents and establish a psychological edge.
Challenges
Dunks are high-percentage shots, but they have risks. If a player misses a dunk, the other team might get a fast-break chance.
There’s also a risk of injury, especially during contested dunks or if a player lands awkwardly.
Variations
- One-Handed Dunk: The player uses one hand to slam the ball through the hoop.
- Two-Handed Dunk: The player uses both hands, offering more ball security.
- Windmill Dunk: The player rotates the ball in a circular motion before dunking.
- 360 Dunk: The player completes a full 360-degree spin in the air before dunking.
- Alley-Oop Dunk: A player catches a pass in mid-air and dunks the ball in a single motion.
- Poster Dunk: This is when a player dunks over a defender in a memorable way, often used in highlight reels.
Notable players
Many NBA players are known for their dunking abilities. Legends like Michael Jordan, Dominique Wilkins, and Vince Carter are remembered for their iconic dunks.
Current players like LeBron James, Zion Williamson, and Giannis Antetokounmpo are also recognized for their powerful and acrobatic dunks.
7. Fadeaway
A fadeaway shot is characterized by the shooter leaning backward while jumping and releasing the ball. Leaning backward creates space between the shooter and the defender, making the shot harder to block.
The player uses their legs and core for power in the shot since they move away from the basket. The motion is typically fluid.
Usage
The fadeaway is commonly used by players when they’re closely guarded and need to create space to get their shot off.
In post-up situations, players often use the fadeaway. They turn with their back to the basket, lean back, and shoot to avoid defenders.
Advantages
- Defensive Evasion: The primary advantage of the fadeaway is its ability to create space from defenders, making the shot difficult to contest.
- Versatility: Not only post players but also guards and wings use the fadeaway. It’s especially popular in mid-range situations.
Challenges
The fadeaway is inherently more challenging than a standard jump shot. The backward motion can affect a player’s balance and shooting accuracy.
Due to its complexity, the fadeaway isn’t always the first choice for players, especially when they have other shot options.
Notable players
Many great players have mastered the fadeaway, but perhaps none are as synonymous with the shot as Michael Jordan. Jordan’s skill in making fadeaways, even against tight defense, established this shot as one of his signature moves.
Kobe Bryant, Dirk Nowitzki, and Kevin Durant are other notable players who have effectively utilized the fadeaway in their scoring arsenals. In particular, Nowitzki’s one-legged fadeaway added a unique twist, making this shot even harder for defenders to block.
8. Bank Shot
A bank shot is when a player aims to bounce the ball off the backboard at an angle so it goes into the basket.
The shot requires a player to accurately judge the angle and force needed to successfully use the backboard to their advantage.
Usage
Bank shots are common for mid-range jumpers, mainly from the side areas or near the bend of the free-throw line.
In post-play, players often use bank shots, like layups and short jumpers, to shoot over defenders.
Advantages
- Bigger Target Area: The backboard offers a larger area for the ball, especially for shots from tough angles.
- Avoiding Blocks: In some cases, the backboard helps the ball go over defenders, so it’s less likely to be blocked.
- Reliable Shooting: Players who master the bank shot find it a steady method from certain court spots.
Challenges
Choosing the right angle and force for a bank shot is hard, especially with defenders close or from far away. Not all players use the bank shot, as many prefer a direct shot.
Notable players
Tim Duncan played as a power forward/center for the San Antonio Spurs. He was often called “The Big Fundamental” because he consistently used the bank shot effectively.
He rarely missed his mid-range bank shots, especially from the wing.
Players like Paul Pierce and Sam Jones also excelled with the bank shot.
9. Floater
A floater is a one-handed shot. Players take it on the move, often in the lane or near the basket. To avoid shot-blockers, the player gives the ball a high arc with a quick, gentle push.
The ball drops towards the basket like a “teardrop.” That’s why some call it a “teardrop shot.”
Usage
Smaller players, especially point guards, often use floaters when driving to the basket. Facing taller defenders, their direct layups or jump shots can be blocked.
Shot-blockers find it harder to contest floaters.
The floater is a mid-range shot. Players use it when they’re too far for a layup but too close for a jump shot.
Advantages
- Evasion: Defenders find the floater’s high arc and quick release hard to block.
- Versatility: Players can shoot the floater with either hand, adapting to their position and the defense.
- Surprise Element: The floater’s quick release catches defenders off guard, giving them little time to react.
Challenges
Mastering the floater is challenging due to its need for touch, timing, and game sense.
Due to its arc and the player’s momentum, the floater can be less consistent than regular layups or jump shots.
The floater is riskier because a miss often results in longer rebounds, giving the opposing team fast-break chances.
Notable players
Many NBA point guards have mastered the floater because it’s useful for smaller players in the paint. Tony Parker, Mike Conley, and Chris Paul are known for their exceptional skill with the floater.
Trae Young and Ja Morant have recently showcased their effective floaters on offense.
10. Tip-In
A tip-in is when a player taps a rebounding ball while in mid-air. The ball can bounce off the backboard or go straight into the hoop. Instead of grasping the ball, the player uses their hand or fingertips to guide it.
The tip-in is done close to the basket and quickly follows a missed shot.
Usage
Players often use tip-ins during offensive rebounds.
If a player sees a missed shot, they get ready to jump. They then tap the ball into the basket before they land.
Tip-ins allow players to score without getting the rebound first. This method is faster than a traditional shot, giving defenders less time to block.
Advantages
- Quick Points: Tip-ins quickly turn missed shots into points.
- Surprise Element: Tip-ins are unexpected and can surprise the defense.
- Efficiency: Good offensive rebounders can improve team scores. They turn missed shots into tip-ins.
Challenges
Timing and positioning are crucial for successful tip-ins. Players need to judge the ball’s path and tap it timely. Tall, athletic players have an edge. Yet, shorter ones can succeed with smart moves and spots.
Notable players
Many great rebounders in basketball history have been adept at tip-ins. Moses Malone, Dennis Rodman, and Wilt Chamberlain often turned misses into points using tip-ins.
Today, NBA stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Anthony Davis excel with tip-ins.