Jump Shot vs Set Shot

We have not talked about the difference between the Jump Shot and the Set Shot. The reason for that is there is very little difference in the fundamentals of both shots. Both of these shots start from the Basic Basketball Stance and the ball in the triple-threat position.

The set shot was solely used for years in basketball, and should be used today when teaching younger players. It can also be used when teaching players who do not have good enough strength. The Set Shot is a shot taken with the feet staying on the ground. As stated, it starts from the triple threat position, and it is brought up into the shooting position and in one continuous motion the ball is released. The legs are used, but the shooter just does not jump into the air.

The jump shot, of course, is taken while the shooter jumps in the air. In the jump shot, the ball should be released as the shooter reaches the pinnacle of his jump and never, I repeat never, as the shooter starts descending from the pinnacle. Never should the shooter shoot on his way down.

Balance is of course, paramount in importance when shooting any shot. It is easier to retain balance with the set shot, but while it is easier to have balance with the set shop, the jump shot has the advantage in that the shooter can rise above the defense, making it easier to get the shot off.

So, it is a bit of a trade-off; easier to retain balance versus easier to clear the defense. In shooting the set shot, the player has to work harder to create the space needed to shoot. In shooting the jump shot, the player needs to focus more on retaining balance during the shot.

As stated, it is very important to release the ball at the proper moment of the elevation, but also, the jump shooter should concentrate on jumping with a slight forward momentum. The shooter should never fall back. Also, it is very important that the jump shooter jump straight up and down, and not “float” either left or right, as the shot is attempted.