Shot mechanics
by Norsktroll on Mar 30, 2009 4:26 PM PDT
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PrintJust a quick post on a topic I'm interested in. I'm no expert on basketball shooting form or biomechanics by any means. I did read about it and watched some DVDs, e.g. the Better Basketball DVD where J.J. Redick explains shooting, but after what he achieved so far in his NBA career he should offer people a refund (pure shot, no elevation, not to speak of his defense). These are just some general observations - which could be plain wrong. So please share your observations, and what you think the guys can improve, which player has the best fundamentals, who has the most to learn, etc.
(Updated with more photos)
LaMarcus Aldridge: High release point. Ball positioned on the front of his fingers, not completely palmed like many players. High elbow that doesn't fling outside which helps a lot. Stabilizes it well with left hand. All in all a good shooting form.
Nicolas Batum: I couldn't identify something major wrong in his shot so far that causes him to miss. But the result is often too flat causing the ball to bounce far away after hitting the rim, and with a high diffusion/scatter plot (inconsistent). His misses look to be all over the place, often too long. High release point that should contribute to help him become good at creating his own shot in the future.
(Bruce Ely, Oregonian)
Jerryd Bayless: Shot-put/fling motion, a bit a la Peja Stojakovic who acquired that because he didn't have the strenght to get the ball far enough as a kid. Broke his wrist in high school, so maybe that has something to do with it. Had scouts raving about his shooting form. E.g. Aran Smith who I value highly and who absolutely nailed Brandon’s profile before the draft wrote that Bayless "needs just an inch of daylight to get his jumpshot off". Another scout wrote later "His pull up jumper is magnificent; with the elevation, balance, and quick release, he is virtually able to shoot whenever, and over whomever he desires". DraftExpress also lauded his "perimeter shooting ability" and "pull-up jumper". So I have to wonder where this went since right now the jumper is just off and slow. A lack of repetition in game situations? Overwhelmed by NBA defenders (yet who leave him wide open at times)? He might really benefit from an off-season of training with the Blazers shooting coach to get on track for the next year.
Steve Blake: Decent motion, sometimes takes the off-hand away a bit too early. Deadly catch-and-shoot when left open. Not much elevation and not a high release point (shoots from his chest a bit), so he has trouble creating his own shot under cover. Which isn't a major problem since he is very good at selecting when to shoot.
Rudy Fernandez: Good hand and elbow position. A bit unstable when going up a la Kevin Martin, often leaning back. Not a super-fast release, but can create his own shot. Doesn't give up shooting when his shot is not falling (optimism/confidence in his abilities, which can be both good and bad). This nice photo is more symbolic than really indicative (unstable lower body) since it was a running shot closer to the basket.
Channing Frye: Form looks almost textbook-style, elbows high up, nice follow-through. Judging from photos and videos he tends to put the right hand not quite far enough under the ball/in the middle giving it a slight off rotation. He already did that with the Knicks, so it's nothing new that came with increasing his range out to 18+ feet. Psychologically can fall in love with his jumper, causing fans to feverishly type things like "go inside" in gameday threads ;-)
Raef LaFrentz: Used to have a good outside shot for a big man, but skipped here for obvious reasons.
Greg Oden: I have not seen him take enough mid-range shots to really criticize his shooting form. Judging mainly from free throws and his play closer to the basket he appears to have good soft hands and no major hitch in the motion (unlike e.g. Dwight Howard who pushes the ball too hard at the end of his motion). Thus could develop a reliable shot.
Travis Outlaw: Super-high elevation, enabling him to shoot over anyone. His shots often look...uhm...unique?...but in principle he has good shooting form enabling him to hit those crazy lean-back shots in isolation. Usually very high arc, I wish Sergio would learn to bring his elbows so high up to and sometimes even over eye level.
Joel Przybilla: Well, in general Joel shouldn't take shots other than dunks and layups in game which he hits with amazing efficiency in the last two years, and will probably not learn (or need) a mid-range shot. But he has really stabilized his free throw shooting to a good percentage, focusing on a consistent repeatable motion and learning where he needs to stand on the stripe since his shot is not completely straight. Goes deep in the knees for his free throws.
Shavlik Randolph: I don't know how far out his shot really extends since most of his attempts this year came from around the rim, but the form looks to be pretty good with the elbow maybe a bit far out. He also seems to have an arsenal of moves to get off his shot. I assume Coach K and his staff drill good shooting into you. Wouldn't be surprised if he could hit similar shots like Channing. Not easy to find picture proof, but here you go to get an idea:
Sergio Rodriguez: Pretty quick release. Good hand positioning. Could benefit from lifting elbow significantly higher and bringing it more under the ball from what I see at times. Despite working on it his shot over the summer and apparently continuing to do so in private sessions the result is still often as flat as the earth was believed to be before the Spanish conquests.
Brandon Roy: Looks good to me with a nice follow-through, and he obviously makes many jump shots even under intense pressure. Goes up very straight with a stable body (unlike Travis, Rudy). Keeps his elbow in which is very important. You can see that he tends to put the left hand very high on the ball to stabilize it on many photos, which is a bit unusual (Pau Gasol makes that to an extreme, and still hits). When he gets closer to the basket, his jump shot transforms into a floater with a very nice arc.
Michael Ruffin: No comment about a man airballing lay-ups. He is just not a polished offensive player, and I doubt Nate & Co. have a lot of shooting on his training plan. Make your free throws big fella.
Martell Webster: Very pure and highly repetitive motion, ideal catch-and-shoot player and spot-up shooter after going around a screen. Might even be able to speed it up more since his mechanics are really good. High release point. Not so good at creating separation off the dribble (where e.g. Travis and Roy excel), and sometimes shot selection is a bit questionable.
That was it. So as said above, please share your observations. If you coach basketball, maybe you are especially trained to see good and bad shooting.
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Just imagine
If we could combine Batum’s patience/defense, Webster’s 3pt range & Outlaw’s ability to attack the basket/mid range game/ability to create their own shot.
Oh damn…
Thats LeBron huh
You pulled the trigger Kevin. Now you & Mr. Allen must do everything possible to help him succeed. A mentor like Ewing or Olajuwon would be a good start. A franchise PG ? Mike Conley? Lets get it done !
Positive Vibes For Oden
you could combine sergio and bayless and come up with an all star as well.
The most hated Blazer is like the least hottest supermodel - Sabonis4Ever
by Philthyanimal on Mar 30, 2009 7:37 PM PDT up reply actions
ehh
probably, might need Blakes 3 pt shooting XD
You pulled the trigger Kevin. Now you & Mr. Allen must do everything possible to help him succeed. A mentor like Ewing or Olajuwon would be a good start. A franchise PG ? Mike Conley? Lets get it done !
Positive Vibes For Oden
Jerryd and Rudy would be the best combo, I think
Driving, passing, shooting, BBIQ…
draft dejuan blair
Jerryd has a better body, better athleticism, and is better at taking it to the rim.
Rudy is better at shooting, passing, and knowing the game.
Smarts + Athleticism = Jerryd Fernandez.
draft dejuan blair
by Cablinasian on Mar 31, 2009 11:29 AM PDT up reply actions
Hmmm
I don’t know about better body or better at being able to take it to the rim.
Rudy’s long frame & arms allow him to get his shot off, along with his athleticism. Something Jerryd hasn’t shown since college.
No way Jerryd can get up like Rudy does for Sergio’s oops.
Are you really arguing that Jerryd might not have a better body than Rudy? He is built like a tank. Rudy is a stick figure.
Rudy has been very poor at taking the ball to the rim off the dribble and finishing. He has the occasional layup, but it is a very small part of his game. On many occasions this season, Jerryd has shown an ability to get to the rim. With an outside shot, he would be able to get to the rim with much more ease.
And, yes, Jerryd does have better athleticism than Rudy. Rudy’s leap and speed are pretty average for an NBA athlete.
draft dejuan blair
Rudy's slim frame
Allows for better elusiveness, Jerryd’s “tank” seems like it just creates charging fouls.
so
Dwyane Wade, LeBron James, and Corey Maggette suffer from being too big to drive to the bucket?
Penetrators are almost always bigger, more physical players.
Rudy rarely, rarely penetrates. I don’t see how him being skinny helps him.
draft dejuan blair
Rudy's speed is far above average
If he could move with the ball at the same speed that he move without it, he would be unstoppable. I think Rudy and Jerryd are about equal in speed and quickness. Rudy has more height/length than Jerryd, but Jerryd is a lot stronger and can jump a little bit higher. Overall, I would say that Jerryd is a little more athletic, but it is fairly close. If Rudy can add some muscle without losing his speed, he would have a great body for the NBA.
Jerryd dares to say he can get up to the same height
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fcqe9UXkc8o
Not to make this another post about his potential, but even in high school he had great elevation, see video. His standing reach was measured in pre-draft camp as 8’1’’, Rudy’s with a little over 8’5’’. So Jerryd gives up about 4 inches in his physical tools. But Rudy’s vert is 26.5 (no step) and 35.5 (max), where B-Rex can counter with 31 and 38. So he makes up for that almost completely. For a combo guard, that’s pretty high up there with the best of them.
I care less
About someones body/triangle numbers, instead their ability to use it.
this is a confusing argument
Jerryd has better athleticism and a better body. If you gave Rudy the tools Jerryd has, like my original argument was, then there would be a dominant player.
draft dejuan blair
Some things to add Norsk
great post though
Bayless has changed his shot since he came to the pros.. and its not worked out for him.
Greg shoots jumpers about the same as his free throws.
Blakes form is horrific. He lurches, makes his body a V and shoots in front of his body. I cant complain about his FG% so its all good.
LaMarcus tends to drift on his shots, and his footwork when shooting isnt great, which is the source of his misses. When he sets, goes straight up he makes them because his form is excellent.
Martell really has a nice stroke. so does Channing
Rudy tends to put his feet too close together and sometimes that causes him to be off balance. Its very apparent when he gets set to shoot 3’s.
Batums form is ok, he just hasnt shot it enough to be good at it.
Other than death and taxes, only 4 things in this world are indisputable:
Brandon Roy is the BEST player in the NBA in the clutch.
Montana to Rice were the greatest to ever play the game.
The Four Horsemen of Maddux, Smoltz, Glavine and Avery were unstoppable.
No one protects the pipes like Luongo.
by GreatOden'sRaven on Mar 30, 2009 4:47 PM PDT reply actions 1 recs
travis has pretty poor mechanics
but thats how he makes em.. ala reggie miller, so i cant complain
Other than death and taxes, only 4 things in this world are indisputable:
Brandon Roy is the BEST player in the NBA in the clutch.
Montana to Rice were the greatest to ever play the game.
The Four Horsemen of Maddux, Smoltz, Glavine and Avery were unstoppable.
No one protects the pipes like Luongo.
by GreatOden'sRaven on Mar 30, 2009 4:47 PM PDT up reply actions
Those poor mechanics
allow him to get his shot off against just about anyone
You pulled the trigger Kevin. Now you & Mr. Allen must do everything possible to help him succeed. A mentor like Ewing or Olajuwon would be a good start. A franchise PG ? Mike Conley? Lets get it done !
Positive Vibes For Oden
Correction
his athleticism allows this. He needs to put some backspin on the ball as it is either all net or a long rebound. Ask yourself when was the last time he got a shooters roll. This is clearly evidenced by his poor FT% where having a bit of backspin really helps.
Life is exhausting when you are this stupid.
good analysis
The most hated Blazer is like the least hottest supermodel - Sabonis4Ever
by Philthyanimal on Mar 30, 2009 7:38 PM PDT up reply actions
Cocking it back above his head
makes it unblockable along with his great vert
You pulled the trigger Kevin. Now you & Mr. Allen must do everything possible to help him succeed. A mentor like Ewing or Olajuwon would be a good start. A franchise PG ? Mike Conley? Lets get it done !
Positive Vibes For Oden
getting perimeter man to man
blocked shots is a pretty rare thing. Any good NBA defender just looks to occlude vision on the perimeter and not to block shots, especially with the rules so favoring offensive players these days. That is one of the problems with Travis is that with his skill set he can be effectively guarded by almost anyone as long as they are smart enough to try and make him play blind.
Life is exhausting when you are this stupid.
lebron blocked him
on a jumper the other night
Other than death and taxes, only 4 things in this world are indisputable:
Brandon Roy is the BEST player in the NBA in the clutch.
Montana to Rice were the greatest to ever play the game.
The Four Horsemen of Maddux, Smoltz, Glavine and Avery were unstoppable.
No one protects the pipes like Luongo.
by GreatOden'sRaven on Mar 31, 2009 11:55 AM PDT up reply actions
Pretty terrible example...
Wade also rejected Brook lopez 3 times in the final two minutes of one game.
and of course because LeBron is some mutant
with more athleticism than anyone i can imagine
Other than death and taxes, only 4 things in this world are indisputable:
Brandon Roy is the BEST player in the NBA in the clutch.
Montana to Rice were the greatest to ever play the game.
The Four Horsemen of Maddux, Smoltz, Glavine and Avery were unstoppable.
No one protects the pipes like Luongo.
by GreatOden'sRaven on Mar 31, 2009 12:54 PM PDT up reply actions
but you DID say unblockable..
and LeBron blocked it from in front of him head to head
Other than death and taxes, only 4 things in this world are indisputable:
Brandon Roy is the BEST player in the NBA in the clutch.
Montana to Rice were the greatest to ever play the game.
The Four Horsemen of Maddux, Smoltz, Glavine and Avery were unstoppable.
No one protects the pipes like Luongo.
by GreatOden'sRaven on Mar 31, 2009 12:55 PM PDT up reply actions
Nate Robinson
Also blocked Yao Ming haha. I should have said most of the time unblockable
Lebron fouled Outlaw
Should got away with the fouled on Outlaw beyond the arc.
Go Blazers.
by BlazersD00nie on Mar 31, 2009 3:12 PM PDT up reply actions
but when he blocked his jumper at the top that was CLEAN
Other than death and taxes, only 4 things in this world are indisputable:
Brandon Roy is the BEST player in the NBA in the clutch.
Montana to Rice were the greatest to ever play the game.
The Four Horsemen of Maddux, Smoltz, Glavine and Avery were unstoppable.
No one protects the pipes like Luongo.
by GreatOden'sRaven on Mar 31, 2009 3:25 PM PDT up reply actions
That's because of his arch
Using that much arch has its pros and cons. The rebounds are going to be long regardless of backspin. Trout’s set shot from three is pretty textbook. Most guys would love to put it up that high.
Q: Is Greg favoring his knee?
Frye: He favors dunking on your head, that's what he favors.
I disagree
to prove this to yourself take a tennis ball and give it a slight flick and watch it bounce away, now roll your wrist and give the same flick. You should be able to get the ball to bounce back to you. Apply these same principles in a collision and you can get the ball to go into the backboard rather than straight back out.
Life is exhausting when you are this stupid.
Rice always mentions how often Travis should bounce the ball before a FT to gather his thoughts
Three times and he is in focus, two times and it’s likely a miss. I haven’t recorded it and don’t always watch for it, but he could have a point regardless of how Travis shoots it.
i didnt say it was a bad thing
just pointing out that they werent great
Other than death and taxes, only 4 things in this world are indisputable:
Brandon Roy is the BEST player in the NBA in the clutch.
Montana to Rice were the greatest to ever play the game.
The Four Horsemen of Maddux, Smoltz, Glavine and Avery were unstoppable.
No one protects the pipes like Luongo.
by GreatOden'sRaven on Mar 31, 2009 11:54 AM PDT up reply actions
Side note:
Who has the best shooting form in the NBA?
Other than death and taxes, only 4 things in this world are indisputable:
Brandon Roy is the BEST player in the NBA in the clutch.
Montana to Rice were the greatest to ever play the game.
The Four Horsemen of Maddux, Smoltz, Glavine and Avery were unstoppable.
No one protects the pipes like Luongo.
by GreatOden'sRaven on Mar 30, 2009 4:48 PM PDT reply actions
I would actually say Ben Gordon
but Ray Rays is pretty good.
The one thing the NBA players really do poorly is put arc on the ball.
Other than death and taxes, only 4 things in this world are indisputable:
Brandon Roy is the BEST player in the NBA in the clutch.
Montana to Rice were the greatest to ever play the game.
The Four Horsemen of Maddux, Smoltz, Glavine and Avery were unstoppable.
No one protects the pipes like Luongo.
by GreatOden'sRaven on Mar 30, 2009 4:55 PM PDT up reply actions
Ray Allen's
Easily.
You pulled the trigger Kevin. Now you & Mr. Allen must do everything possible to help him succeed. A mentor like Ewing or Olajuwon would be a good start. A franchise PG ? Mike Conley? Lets get it done !
Positive Vibes For Oden
Eric Gordon is up there.
One of the prettiest jumpers I’ve seen in years.
by howlingfantods on Mar 30, 2009 5:20 PM PDT up reply actions
You must read Simmons
There are alot of guys with good lookin’ strokes. They get paid to shoot. C’mon.
Then I rose, wiping the blunts ash from my clothes
Then froze only to blow the herb smoke through my nose
J.J. is really textbook good, but it doesn't matter since he can't get it off and the rest of his game is forgettable
So yeah, Ray’s shot is very pure and one looks like the next. Kobe’s is good and he might be the best off the dribble instantly going up on the spot. Rip Hamilton is pretty from mid-range.
oh yeah good call
his shot is fantastic..
not an NBA player but an NBA shot
Other than death and taxes, only 4 things in this world are indisputable:
Brandon Roy is the BEST player in the NBA in the clutch.
Montana to Rice were the greatest to ever play the game.
The Four Horsemen of Maddux, Smoltz, Glavine and Avery were unstoppable.
No one protects the pipes like Luongo.
by GreatOden'sRaven on Mar 31, 2009 11:56 AM PDT up reply actions
I really like watching Corey Magette
He has a really nice shot. Very fundamentally sound with out the usual legs out theatrics designed to get calls.
Life is exhausting when you are this stupid.
ouch
Other than death and taxes, only 4 things in this world are indisputable:
Brandon Roy is the BEST player in the NBA in the clutch.
Montana to Rice were the greatest to ever play the game.
The Four Horsemen of Maddux, Smoltz, Glavine and Avery were unstoppable.
No one protects the pipes like Luongo.
by GreatOden'sRaven on Mar 31, 2009 11:56 AM PDT up reply actions
Excellent post
Rec.
My opinion:
L-Train: I love it… His ability to hit the mid range jumper really plays well into this teams future.
Travis: Continues to improve consistency… Just keep working. Can get it over just about anyone in the NBA.
Blake: Not the prettiest, but his repetitions and confidence have overcame whatever issues he may have had.
Rudy, because of his lightning quick ability to step back(along with good team ball movement) can get space on just about anyone. I see Rudy’s motion as fast as anyone in the NBA after an offseason of training. Go look back when he was in the ACB. Much quicker, one motion.
Bayless has nowhere to go but up with his jumper this offseason. Hope to see some improvement. Hope his broken hand doesn’t hinder that.
Sergio has improved from leaps and bounds from last season, but for him to ever get more minutes… His jumper needs to be more consistent. Hopefully an offseason with Rudy will help him out.
I love Roy’s jumper & I except it to continue to improve.
Oden: Plain and simple, if Greg plans on being anything besides a dunker… He must study Tim Duncan(reportedly one of his favorite players). I can see his hook becoming more reliable with another offseason, but if he wants to have any sort of face up game he should be looking to the glass ala TD.
Raef: I expect him to attempt a comeback in Boston next year for a cheap vet contract.
Again…
Great post.
You pulled the trigger Kevin. Now you & Mr. Allen must do everything possible to help him succeed. A mentor like Ewing or Olajuwon would be a good start. A franchise PG ? Mike Conley? Lets get it done !
Positive Vibes For Oden
why do you think he will be back in Boston?
As I remember he came to Boston because Ainge was interested in dumping Walker not necessarily bringing in Raef.
Life is exhausting when you are this stupid.
Because
Raef will be cheap… They could use the depth. Also, Pierce and LaFrentz were great in college together.
You pulled the trigger Kevin. Now you & Mr. Allen must do everything possible to help him succeed. A mentor like Ewing or Olajuwon would be a good start. A franchise PG ? Mike Conley? Lets get it done !
Positive Vibes For Oden
he will certainly be cheap
but I would be surprised if I guy who was well on the downside of his career 3-4 years ago is really going to be desirable, given that he is not really played in 2 years. He also does not really fit the bill of the PJ Brown type of player they are looking for.
At this point I doubt anyone outside of Kansas cares about what Raef and Pierce did in college.
Life is exhausting when you are this stupid.
They already tried to pair them back up
before. This time Raef will be cheaper & looking for a ring, maybe a team mate who gives a damn about him.
You pulled the trigger Kevin. Now you & Mr. Allen must do everything possible to help him succeed. A mentor like Ewing or Olajuwon would be a good start. A franchise PG ? Mike Conley? Lets get it done !
Positive Vibes For Oden
as I said before
that was more of Antoine Walker dump than anything else. Raef had already lost a lot by that point.
He is not exactly the type of veteran who can pick his spot to play for a ring. It is not like he is a Gary Payton or Karl Malone twilight years type of player. He is a guy who has not played for 2 years.
As a team, what does Raef offer? Playoff experience…not so much. Leadership…again not so much. If you are looking for a guy to quietly cash checks then he is your man.
Timbo is right that dude is done.
Life is exhausting when you are this stupid.
After seeing Darius Miles get another shot
I am not ruling it out until I see him on the retired list
Meh
This is a pretty cool post if you’re into FanPosts that have research and some thought put into them. It certainly doesn’t solve the back up point guard dilemma.
Remember when Norsk solved the Israel/Palestine conflict with a paperclip?
Do not doubt.
Karma
by Sabonis4Ever on Mar 30, 2009 9:05 PM PDT up reply actions
My list...
…you are now on.
Karma
by Sabonis4Ever on Mar 30, 2009 9:20 PM PDT up reply actions 2 recs
Why
don’t we put everyone, on each others list then no one bothers reading this blog except for Dave & Ben.
Your on my list
what a joke.
Don’t bother responding.
Because you are on my list.
You pulled the trigger Kevin. Now you & Mr. Allen must do everything possible to help him succeed. A mentor like Ewing or Olajuwon would be a good start. A franchise PG ? Mike Conley? Lets get it done !
Positive Vibes For Oden
I listed you a long time ago
Karma
by Sabonis4Ever on Mar 30, 2009 9:28 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
Who wrote this comment?
And what did he say?
Must be on my list….
When I rule the world, everyone will know how to use Excel.
Rec...my thoughts
Blake – textbook example of what hard work will give you in shooting %. He worked so hard in the offseason (as did Martell, we just haven’t been able to see it for obvious reasons) on his jumper that the follow thru and results are showing from repitition. That is what was key to Reggie Miller. His shot was so ugly, but he had done it so many times that the results came from repitition, not fundamentals.
LMA – Great fundamentals for a big man (much like Rasheed) high release, consistant follow-thru, good hand position. He can continue to expand his shooting repitoir over time and even start to back it out to the 3 line (lets just hope he doesn’t figure that out, we want more inside shots).
Batum and Bayless – Both are fundamentally fine (I would say Batum has a better looking stroke from a catch and shoot stand point, but Rex has a better pull up). They both just need an offseason to shoot 1000 shots a day and get their heads out of it. you can almost SEE them thinking about their shot before they shoot it.
Rudy – His shot is only going to get better with time, his release will get quicker, his feet position will get more consistant, and his body will get more stable as he gets older, stronger and smarter.
Roy and Martell – both have shots tailor made for their game. Roy can hit any shot he wants and get almost any shot off he needs. His form isn’t perfect, but it’s strong (hard to get him off balance on a pull up), consistant (decent catch and shoot player), fundamental (something he can replicate and not think about). What he lacks Martell has in his shot. Perfect fundamentals (hand position), quick release (catch and shoot), and high release (hard to block).
Outlaw – really quite surprised by the leaps he has made this year in his shooting. Would love to see that progress continue.
Lastly, Sergio – he needs to figure out what kind of shooter he is going to be (if at all). Beginning of the year, you could see the progress he had made in his fundamentals, but as the season has progressed, his shot has gotten flatter and flatter. Don’t know if it is his mind getting the way and he’s thinking about it, or he’s just tired and given up on trying.
...things go well I might be showing my O face...O...O...O...you know what I'm talking about.
Great topic
Random thoughts:
Aldridge’s shooting form intrigues me. He has a very high shooting pocket and can be absolutely money, but I also think there are some limitations to the way he shots the ball. A high shooting pocket is, of course, helpful in getting shots off when being contests. I also believe that it’s important biomechanically for players with broader shoulders. The broader one’s shoulders, the more difficult it is to shoot the ball with a natural alignment of hips, eyes, arms, and elbow. The broader the shoulders, the more one has to swing in his/her shoulders or twist towards the basket to keep the elbow down (or vertical).
There is, however, a drawback of a high shooting pocket: It increases the importance of being on balance when one shoots. The longer the body when shooting, the farther one types from being truly vertical when shooting. One of the reasons that AI could hit such ridiculous fall away jumpers is that he is short and has a pretty compact stroke.
I believe Rudy has the best upper-body mechanics of anyone on the Blazers… a lot of this is God given—narrow shoulder, a flexible torso, etc but his shot is pure. The only reason he does not make more shots is that he frequently shoots off-balance—both intentionally and unintentionally. If he increased his lower body strength and worked on getting a broader base when he shoots, I think his FG% could increase a few points. Fixing lower body problems is much, much easier than other elements of shooting. I hope this is something that is addressed in the off-season.
by PoliSam on Mar 30, 2009 6:27 PM PDT reply actions 2 recs
types=tips
Also, to finish the thought on a high shooting pocket: it naturally brings one’s shooting elbow closer to being vertical. It’s almost impossible to have your elbow pointed out when the ball is as high as Aldridge’s shooting pocket is.
I hope someone can help me out here
I’ve heard martell has excellent shooting form and from what (little) I know, I’d say those observations are correct. Why, then, does he only shoot 38% from 3? 38% isn’t anything to sneeze at, but Blake hits over 40%. Does that mean Martell doesn’t get in as many reps a Blake?
Help me out here. It looks like Martell should be 3rd quarter against the Jazz deadly all the time, but……
"It’s a good ol’ fashioned Rip City beat down!"
That was in last years offense
where we were a more perimeter oriented team, look at Blakes improvement from last year to this 40→43% which is nothing to sneeze at.
Also, I think a lot of Martell’s troubles in the past stemmed from his head and not from his ability, but by all accounts he has turned that around.
I guess the other thing to figure is where in the shot clock those shots are being taken. Usually the 3 ball from the SF is coming late in the clock and that is a tough shot to hit when the defense is not collapsed or the pass is bad.
It still stands though that Webster’ shooting numbers are nothing to write home about, but as homers we all know he is going to shoot %100 from downtown from now on.
Life is exhausting when you are this stupid.
Part of it could have to do with their shot selection as I remarked
Blake has learned what a good shot is and passes up most contested ones, since he knows his chances to hit those are mediocre with his physical abilities. Martell has not yet internalized to distinguish that completely, and last year still took many shots in “bad” situations. One of the worst offenders in the league regarding this is J.R. Smith, who has an okay shooting form but just takes a ton of bad ones making him very streaky.
martell has shown no sign of being 'clutch'
and this is definitely something that has to do with what’s in his head. raising his ‘self-esteem’ via the psychology du jour may or may not have successfully addressed this. if there’s been a change for the better this will have to be demonstrated in live game-situations.
martell is so young that i certainly by no means rule out a positive change. but until he’s hit some big shots….the blazers have several better options, players who also are unlikely to be devastated if they miss.
ignacio
I liked the pictures
How’s that for insight?
It's spelled "PRZYBILLA."
vanillathrillagorillaprzybilla
rudy's release
i’ve always thought rudy’s release was pretty fast. at least faster than sergios.
The most hated Blazer is like the least hottest supermodel - Sabonis4Ever
my release is faster than sergios
Other than death and taxes, only 4 things in this world are indisputable:
Brandon Roy is the BEST player in the NBA in the clutch.
Montana to Rice were the greatest to ever play the game.
The Four Horsemen of Maddux, Smoltz, Glavine and Avery were unstoppable.
No one protects the pipes like Luongo.
by GreatOden'sRaven on Mar 31, 2009 11:58 AM PDT up reply actions
Go back look at his ACB days
Its very fast naturally. It will get faster as his NBA career goes along I think.
i still think its fast now
and i’ve seen enough acb games to know its fast.
The most hated Blazer is like the least hottest supermodel - Sabonis4Ever
by Philthyanimal on Mar 31, 2009 10:48 PM PDT up reply actions
Webster, Roy, Aldridge, Outlaw
(Not in any particular order) are my favorite shooter forms. Rudy is up there too, mainly because he makes it. However, Rudy’s form isnt really about looks, but about speed. Its not the prettiest, but it gets the job done and if you look at his basic mechanics, they are solid. Just a little unorthodox is all.
The one thing you will see with any accurate shooter is the shooting elbow and wrist being as close to perpendicular with the ground as possible. This minimizes the chance your shooting arc will go to the left or right if you release too quick or too late. At least you will still be shooting straight. Think golf. If you move your elbow out a bit or in too far, your shooting arc will change dramatically if you are forced to release too fast or too late.
If you want to see a really weird shot, look up Clyde Drexler dishing them out behind the arc. I could never, NEVER, emulate that shot. Friend of mine used to imitate players shots. The best were the free throw routine competitions. Hehe. Oh the memories.
"OK, it's going to rain tomorrow. And there is going to be a Greenpeace meeting and hippies are going to be protesting" ~ The Buffet of Goodness on Portland
by Blazer on Mar 30, 2009 8:27 PM PDT reply actions 1 recs
thats why BEdge is better than the other SB and Team blogs:
unsolicited in depth analysis from it’s members
Tony Luftman Is an Animatronic Robot created by Cyberdyne Industries for the purpose of the destruction of the entire human race, no one shall be spared.
Norks this is awesome.
You really really nailed this exercise. Definitely one of the best posts I have seen, and absolutely worthy of front page status.. (hint hint ben)
From the back of Travis Outlaw's Franz card: Travis leads the team in monstrous thunder dunks, wins awards for post game interviews, and often gets extra points for degree of difficulty.
From the back of Greg Oden's Franz card: Nickname: Jaws. Has an insatiable desire to tear rims apart while cruising the open court, and was once interested in using head-gear for his profession.
Thanks Norsk
This post (and the comments) have given me a lot of things to look for over the next several games.
Oof
It sure is a straight line though
man is that hideous
cant hate on the results though
Other than death and taxes, only 4 things in this world are indisputable:
Brandon Roy is the BEST player in the NBA in the clutch.
Montana to Rice were the greatest to ever play the game.
The Four Horsemen of Maddux, Smoltz, Glavine and Avery were unstoppable.
No one protects the pipes like Luongo.
by GreatOden'sRaven on Mar 31, 2009 11:59 AM PDT up reply actions
Yes, but why is he so scared to shoot?
"I saw him in the face" Sergio's quote on the latest alley-oop to Rudy.
by blazermaniac32 on Mar 31, 2009 6:38 AM PDT up reply actions
Kapono's shot is pretty good mechanically
Quick too once he gets it into the pocket
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y5RYIqYe5D4&NR=1
Issues with shooting.
Batum has a slight hitch in his shot and sometimes doesn’t put enough legs in it but is a decent spot-up shooter and seems to have a reasonably quick release. Bayless doesn’t keep his elbow in enough and sometimes doesn’t look balanced. Sergio never seems to put enough legs or arc on the ball.
BRoy doesn’t put a lot of rotation on the ball. Blake’s form doesn’t look all that pretty to me, but he’s always square. Neither does Outlaw’s, but he can pretty much shoot over anybody cuz he can jump out of the gym. Greg has nice form for a big. As for these guys, who cares? They shoot well and make them when it really counts.
Batum
He palms the ball. That means his follow through creates a flat straighter line to the hoop. also sometimes his elbow flares out. he needs to do a better job at balancing the ball on this fingers and the pads of his hands.
Roy’s high hand interferes with the rotation but it goes in!
travis actually waits a little too long and uses his arm strength more often than not… rather than his legs.
rudy… well it goes in.
Blake’s shot is one I see a lot its the shotup almost shooting from the chest.
Good observations
Roy also often palms the ball (see the image above or this one here) plus has the stabilizing hand on top, but he seems to have the necessary repetitions to make it go in.
Awesome stuff Norkstroll.
If you don’t mind me asking, what do you do for a living? You seem to have an abnormally good background knowledge of sports stuff (Like more so than alot of people on here, which says alot) and I am always impressed by the work that you put together.
male stripper
but he has TONS of newspapers to read in the waiting room\
am i close?
Other than death and taxes, only 4 things in this world are indisputable:
Brandon Roy is the BEST player in the NBA in the clutch.
Montana to Rice were the greatest to ever play the game.
The Four Horsemen of Maddux, Smoltz, Glavine and Avery were unstoppable.
No one protects the pipes like Luongo.
by GreatOden'sRaven on Mar 31, 2009 12:55 PM PDT up reply actions
Thanks, but it's not related to sports, that's just a hobby like with most people here
Innovation/product management and formerly consulting. Usually not with companies active in sports although a colleague went on to join adidas. A background that might be reflected is a lot of experience quickly finding information and analyzing given situations. From a professional background I have much more in common with Miller, KP and Casey than with Nate :)
Hire Dave Hopla and Calderon´s hard-working ethic.
Sergio + Rudy = 16
Sergio + Bayless = 16
Batum 8+8=16
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