“I don’t get too excited about shots I make because I’m supposed make them. I’m more perplexed when I don’t make it.” - Jesus Shuttlesworth.
Once an afterthought in basketball, the art of shooting has become one of the games most interesting subjects to study. From Reggie Miller, Ray Allen, Larry Bird and Stephen Curry all have different shooting mechanics in a sense but they all have been extremely effective from beyond the arc.
One thing about the art of shooting is clear though: there is a method to the madness. For those shooting savants, TheDribbleDrop has started a new feature series called “Respect The Shooter.” Each article will discuss the ins and outs of shooting.
First up is Ranney guard Alex Klatsky. The sensational shooter has averaging 3 three pointers made per game thus far. Klatsky has also knocked down 5 three pointers or more in a game three times this year.
By Christian Mordi / @thedribbledrop
TheDribbleDrop: In your opinion, who are the top three shooters all time?
Alex Klatsky: Stephen Curry, Larry Bird and Ray Allen. I watched a documentary on Bird a couple weeks ago. The purity of his shot was unbelievable.
TheDribbleDrop: Tell me two or three drills you do to improve your shooting?
Alex Klatsky: Well for those who have access to a shooting gun, I would say set it to zero seconds and get up as many shots as possible. That’s good on working on your release and getting better at catching and shooting.
It’s also important to work on hitting shots on the move. I do a drill where I take a shot from top key, then run from sideline to sideline taking shots. It works on my conditioning and shooting. You have to be able to shoot when your tired. In the fourth quarter you should be able to get your shot off with same ease you did in the first.
TheDribbleDrop: Best piece of advice you got from someone teaching you how to shoot or from a fellow shooter?
Alex Klatsky: Quickness. Everyone talks about how quick you have to get your shot off on the next level. You want to release high and fast.
TheDribbleDrop: What’s more important: a quick release, foot placement or arm form?
Alex Klatsky: I would say foot placement and balance are the most important. Everyone likes to shoot differently and we can argue with form and release point all day, but I believe setting your feet is the most important thing. Some people like to argue about the placement of the elbow when shooting as well, but I’m going to say feet.
TheDribbleDrop: Would you say shooting more about your arms or legs when extending your range?
Alex Klatsky: Extending your legs is definitely about your lower body. There is such diversity in releases today and both play an important factor. With that being said, I would say legs.
TheDribbleDrop: Which rock are you guys shooting with: Wave ball or Evolution?
Alex Klatsky: Evolution. Great question (laughs.)
TheDribbleDrop: If I were new to shooting a basketball, what’s the most important piece of advice you would give me?
Alex Klatsky: Bend your knees and get your lower body into it.
TheDribbleDrop: Anything else you want to share about shooting?
Alex Klatsky: I definitely think shooting is an art. I also think it’s the direction the game is moving into now. In the NBA everything is about the outside game and shooting.