Correcting Shots that Miss Short and Shots that Miss Long
By Dr. Hal Wissel

Correcting shots that miss short and shots that miss long are listed below, along with suggested trigger words to correct them. Trigger words are positive words, preferably one syllable words, that you associate with the correct mechanics of your shot and reinforce rhythm and confidence.

Error. Your shot is short.

Correction: A shot that is short is usually due to a slow or uneven rhythm, stepping back as you shoot or an incomplete follow-through. By seeing the reaction of the ball on the rim or by feel, you should be able to determine whether you need to emphasize a quicker or even paced rhythm, landing in the same spot, or holding follow-through up until the ball reaches the net, Suggested trigger words are “Rhythm!” or “Down and Up!” to trigger the down and up action of your knees for rhythm and range. “Through!” to trigger holding your follow-through up until the ball reaches the net, and  “Head-in!” to trigger landing in the same spot rather than stepping back. The words “Head-in!” help because your body will go where your head goes. 

Correcting Miss Short

Error: Your shot is long.

Correction: Your shooting arm is extending on too flat a trajectory (less than 45 degrees). Raise your shooting arm higher when you shoot putting a higher arc on your shot (45 to 60 degrees). Suggested trigger words are “Up!” or Arc!” Another cause of missing long is leaning your shoulders back as you shoot. Shoot with your head and shoulders going forward and upward toward the rim as you follow-through. Suggested trigger words are “Head-in!” The words “Head-in!” help because your body will go where your head goes. Another cause of missing long is positioning your hands too far apart from each other on the ball preventing you from lifting the ball. Move your hands closer together.

Correcting Miss Long

Edited from:
Wissel, H. (2011). BASKETBALL: Steps to Success. Third Edition. Human Kinetics, Champaign, IL.
Wissel, Hal. (2005). Basketball Shooting: Confidence, Rhythm and Mechanics DVD. Basketball World, Suffield, CT.
Wissel, Hal. (2009). Basketball Shooting: Make Your Shot Automatic DVD. Basketball World, Suffield, CT.