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Skyler Lang

This course is about developing basketball skills. I will teach you about shooting, ball handling, shooting footwork, layup footwork, and post moves. Everything can be done by any player with or without athleticism. It's the effort you put in that counts. Not everyone is born with the genetic privilege of being tall, strong, fast, or bouncy (able to jump high), but everyone can improve their game by practicing ways to score over better competition. This course will be based around skill, and ways to maximize your scoring ability.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Basketball technique
  • Ball handling
  • Shooting
  • Finishing
  • Shooting footwork
  • Post moves

Syllabus

Introduction

This is a little background information about myself and what will be taught in this course

Sources used:

Music from https://www.bensound.com/

Reggie Miller Picture: https://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/slides/photos/000/594/772/act_reggie_miller_original.jpg?1293480866

Ray Allen Picture:

https://i1.wp.com/sneakerhistory.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/raay.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&ssl=1

Stephen Curry Picture:

https://sportshub.cbsistatic.com/i/r/2018/08/10/880cc7e4-d061-4811-8eb0-b711fa8a3c90/thumbnail/1200x675/fd51bb39e4b3f1a1f30a2978e797edaf/stephshooting.jpg

Klay Thompson Picture:

https://i.ytimg.com/vi/wH70_aQpmUo/maxresdefault.jpg

Rim Picture

https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81BH5Rn2RWL._UL1500_.jpg

Balls of feet

https://www.drscholls.com/static/media/images/drscholls/m_SC_DETAIL_MODULE1_750x460_2.1.2_BallofFootPain.jpg

Kobe Shooting

https://i.ytimg.com/vi/9GkxFN8-PM0/maxresdefault.jpg

Kareem abdul jabar

https://laistassets.scprdev.org/i/1cedf43dee57624fb153f0f4b1820963/5bc8fb29d217300008df7d95-eight.jpg


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A brief introduction of the section

You will learn how your body works together to create more energy for the shot. You will also learn ways to utilize your lower body energy to your advantage.

You will learn where to aim and ways to increase your accuracy within a few minutes.

You will learn how to balance and proper posture that allows the ball to move in a straight line when released after the shot.

You will learn how court vision affects your game and how to improve it.

You will learn how to find your perfect jump shot and techniques to help shoot better.

A brief introduction to this section.

A review of key points mentioned in this section.

You will learn the proper way to balance and how it helps in controlling the ball.

You will learn how to feel the ball better without looking at it.

You will learn the importance of the off-hand and how it can apply to your game.

You will learn the most common way Kobe uses to get his shot off the dribble.

You will learn how to use the hop effectively to get into a shot quickly.

You will learn how to create space after a spin and fadeaway into a jumper.

You will learn how to use pump fakes to get an open shot or to get a foul.

You will learn how the backboard is effective during layups and how to utilize them to make high percentage shots.

You will learn the most common layup and different ways to prevent the ball from being stripped away by defenders.

You will learn the pro hop and ways to get an easy shot off using pump fakes.

You will learn how and when to use the overhand and underhand layup to make scoring much easier.

You will learn how to score over taller defenders with a quick release floater.

You will learn how to use the spin move and create an open layup.

You will learn how to use the euro step to create space for an open layup.

You will learn how to use several pump fakes to get defenders jumping in the air in able to get an easy layup.

A brief introduction of this section.

You will learn how to use the hop in the post and its benefits.

You will learn how to create space for a shot or use a pump fake to get an open layup.

You will learn how to use several pump fakes to get defenders in the air in able to make an easy layup.

You will learn how to use jab steps to keep the defenders guessing and how the spin move helps create an open layup.

Thank you for sticking to the end and enrolling in this course.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Focuses on techniques used by NBA legends, offering insights into professional-level strategies and methods that can be adapted for personal skill development
Emphasizes that skill development is achievable through effort and practice, regardless of inherent athletic advantages like height or speed
Covers a range of skills, including shooting, ball handling, footwork, layups, and post moves, providing a comprehensive approach to improving overall game performance
Includes instruction on utilizing the backboard for layups, which can help players make higher percentage shots and score more effectively
Explores techniques for creating space and scoring against taller defenders, which is useful for players who may not have a height advantage
References specific NBA players like Kobe Bryant, Hakeem Olajuwon, and Kevin McHale, but does not provide information about their backgrounds or accomplishments

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Reviews summary

Fundamental basketball skills

According to learners, this course focuses on fundamental basketball skills, offering specific techniques used by NBA legends. It covers areas like shooting form, ball handling, finishing at the rim, and post moves. Students appreciate that the course emphasizes skill over athleticism, making the techniques accessible to players of all levels looking to improve their game. While it provides practical tips and helps establish a solid foundation, some learners note that mastering these skills requires consistent practice beyond just minutes, suggesting it serves as a good starting point rather than a complete mastery program.
Improve game regardless of athleticism.
"As someone not very athletic, the focus on skill moves is perfect for my game."
"It shows how technique can help you score even against bigger or faster players."
"I appreciate that it's not just about jumping higher but smarter ways to play."
Breakdown of pro moves and footwork.
"I really liked how the course broke down footwork used by players like Hakeem in the post."
"Learning the Euro step variations was very helpful for finishing."
"The tips on shooting form and energy transfer gave me specific things to work on."
"It provides a good overview of techniques like the hop step and spin move."
Skills take practice, not just minutes.
"The title is catchy, but obviously improving skills takes a lot of repetition."
"The tips are quick, but don't expect miracles in just minutes of practice."
"It gives you the techniques, but you need to put in the work on your own time."
Provides a good foundation, not advanced.
"This course is great for beginners or those needing a refresher on basic skills."
"I was hoping for more advanced drills or in-depth practice plans."
"Good introduction, but intermediate players might find some parts too basic."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Improve your Basketball Skill-Set in Minutes with these activities:
Practice Ball Handling Drills
Reinforce fundamental ball handling skills to improve control and confidence on the court before starting the course.
Browse courses on Ball Handling
Show steps
  • Perform basic dribbling drills focusing on control.
  • Practice crossover dribbles at varying speeds.
  • Incorporate behind-the-back and between-the-legs dribbles.
Read 'Basketball Fundamentals' by Bob Knight
Supplement course knowledge with a classic text on basketball fundamentals.
View Knight: My Story on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read chapters related to shooting and ball handling.
  • Take notes on key concepts and drills.
  • Compare the book's advice to the course content.
Shooting Form Practice
Improve shooting accuracy and consistency by practicing shooting form regularly during the course.
Show steps
  • Focus on proper foot placement and balance.
  • Maintain a consistent release point.
  • Follow through completely on each shot.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Layup Footwork Drills
Improve layup footwork and finishing skills by practicing various layup drills.
Show steps
  • Practice standard layups with both right and left hands.
  • Incorporate euro-step and pro-hop layups.
  • Practice finishing layups with contact.
Read 'Mind Gym: An Athlete's Guide to Inner Excellence' by Gary Mack
Improve mental toughness and focus by reading a book on sports psychology.
Show steps
  • Read chapters on building confidence and managing pressure.
  • Practice mental visualization techniques.
  • Apply the book's principles to basketball training.
Analyze NBA Shooting Techniques
Deepen understanding of shooting techniques by analyzing videos of NBA players and identifying key elements.
Show steps
  • Select videos of NBA players demonstrating shooting techniques.
  • Identify key elements such as footwork, release point, and follow-through.
  • Write a short analysis comparing and contrasting different techniques.
Develop a Personal Training Plan
Apply the course concepts by creating a personalized basketball training plan to improve specific skills.
Show steps
  • Identify areas for improvement based on course content.
  • Design drills and exercises to target those areas.
  • Schedule training sessions and track progress.

Career center

Learners who complete Improve your Basketball Skill-Set in Minutes will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Basketball Skills Trainer
A basketball skills trainer specializes in improving individual players' techniques and performance. As a basketball skills trainer, you provide individualized training to players. This course helps build a foundation in basketball technique, specifically in shooting footwork and post moves. A future basketball skills trainer may find the course helpful learning about ways to maximize scoring ability. The section on ball handling is also particularly relevant. If you want to become a basketball skills trainer, consider taking this course.
Basketball Coach
A basketball coach works to develop players' skills and strategies. This course helps build a foundation in basketball technique, specifically in ball handling, shooting, finishing, and footwork. A future basketball coach may find the course helpful learning about techniques to maximize scoring ability. The sections on shooting, ball handling, and scoring moves would be particularly relevant to someone wanting to coach and teach these skills to others. If you aspire to become a basketball coach, taking this course may help you in your journey.
Assistant Basketball Coach
An assistant basketball coach supports the head coach in various aspects of team management and player development. This course helps build a foundation in basketball technique, specifically in ball handling, shooting, and finishing. This will help you when being an assistant coach for a team. A future assistant basketball coach may find the course helpful learning about techniques to maximize scoring ability. The sections on shooting, ball handling, and scoring moves would be particularly relevant. If you want to become an assistant basketball coach, consider taking this course.
Basketball Analyst
A basketball analyst studies games and player performance to provide insights and predictions. As a basketball analyst, you will analyze complex shooting data and game film. This course helps build a foundation in basketball technique, specifically in shooting footwork and post moves. It helps you better formulate your opinion as to what makes a player successful. An aspiring basketball analyst may find the course helpful learning about ways to maximize scoring ability. The section on ball handling is also particularly relevant. If you want to become a basketball analyst, consider taking this course.
Physical Education Teacher
A physical education teacher instructs students in various physical activities and sports. This course helps build a foundation in basketball technique, specifically in ball handling, shooting, and finishing. A future physical education teacher may find the course helpful learning about techniques to maximize scoring ability. The sections on shooting, ball handling, and finishing moves would be particularly relevant to someone wanting to teach these skills to students. If you wish to become a physical education teacher, consider taking this course.
Basketball Scout
The role of a basketball scout involves evaluating players' abilities and potential. This course may be useful to someone in this role, as it focuses on developing a deeper understanding of basketball skills and techniques such as shooting, ball handling, and post moves. A basketball scout who has taken this course might be better prepared to assess players' strengths and weaknesses, particularly in areas like scoring ability and footwork. The course's emphasis on maximizing scoring ability would be directly applicable to evaluating offensive capabilities. If this is a potential career path for you, consider enrolling in the course.
Basketball Referee
A basketball referee enforces the rules of the game during basketball games. This course may be useful for a basketball referee because it provides a deeper understanding of basketball skills and techniques, such as ball handling, shooting, and footwork. A basketball referee equipped with the knowledge from this course might be better prepared to recognize and call fouls and violations related to these skills. The sections on shooting, ball handling, and scoring moves would be particularly relevant. If you see this as a potential career path, consider enrolling in the course.
Basketball Camp Counselor
A basketball camp counselor supervises and mentors young basketball players at camps. This course may be useful for someone in this role because it focuses on basketball skills and techniques such as ball handling, shooting, and finishing. A basketball camp counselor, equipped with the knowledge from this course, might be better prepared to assist campers in improving their game and understanding fundamental skills. The sections on shooting, ball handling, and scoring moves would be particularly relevant. If you see this as a potential career path, consider enrolling in the course.
Sports Commentator
A sports commentator provides live commentary during sports events. This course may be useful for a sports commentator because it provides a deeper understanding of basketball skills and techniques. Knowing ways to maximize scoring ability, and understand the different kind of finishing moves can help you be a more effective sports commentator. A sports commentator might be better equipped to analyze player performances, and coaching strategies. The sections on shooting and post moves would be good knowledge to have. If you see this as a potential career path, consider enrolling in the course.
Recreation Leader
A recreation leader organizes and leads recreational activities, including sports. This course may be useful for a recreation leader because it provides a deeper understanding of basketball skills and techniques. A recreation leader equipped with the knowledge from this course might be better prepared to teach basketball to children and adults. The sections on shooting and ball handling would be particularly applicable. They could also help them plan activities that are designed to improve specific skills. If you wish to become a recreation leader, consider enrolling in this course.
Sports Journalist
A sports journalist reports on sports-related news and events. This course may be useful for a sports journalist because it provides a deeper understanding of basketball skills and techniques. Knowing how to score utilizing different shooting methods, and what the different kind of finishing moves are can help you be a more effective journalist. A sports journalist might be better equipped to analyze games, player performances, and coaching strategies. The sections on shooting and post moves would be particularly applicable. If you wish to become a sports journalist, consider enrolling in this course.
Personal Trainer
A personal trainer designs and implements fitness programs for individuals. This course may be useful for a personal trainer because it provides a deeper understanding of basketball skills and techniques. Knowing how to improve shooting technique, and what different finishing moves are can help you be a more effective trainer to athletes. A personal trainer might be better equipped to help clients improve their athletic performance. The sections on shooting and post moves would be most relevant. If you wish to become a personal trainer, consider enrolling in this course.
Sports Agent
A sports agent represents professional athletes in contract negotiations and endorsements. While primarily a business role, understanding an athlete's skills is crucial. This course helps build a foundation in basketball technique, specifically in shooting footwork and post moves. This course may be useful in assessing an athlete's capabilities. A future sports agent may find the course helpful learning about ways to maximize scoring ability. The sections on jump shots can be particularly relevant when scouting talent. If you want to become a sports agent, consider taking this course.
Athletic Director
An athletic director is responsible for overseeing a school's or organization's athletic programs. While the role is primarily administrative, understanding the fundamentals of sports, like basketball, is beneficial. This course may be useful for an athletic director because it provides insights into basketball techniques and skills, such as ball handling, shooting, and footwork. This understanding could help the athletic director make informed decisions about the basketball program. The sections on shooting and ball handling may be particularly relevant. If you want to become an athletic director, consider taking this course.
Sports Retail Sales Associate
A sports retail sales associate sells sporting goods, including basketball equipment. While primarily a sales role, having knowledge of basketball skills is beneficial. This course may be useful for a sales associate because it provides insights into basketball techniques and skills, such as ball handling, shooting, and footwork. This knowledge could help the associate better assist customers in choosing the right equipment. The sections on shooting and ball handling may be particularly relevant. This will give them the ability to speak from a place of expertise. If you want to become a sports retail sales associate, consider taking this course.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Improve your Basketball Skill-Set in Minutes.
Provides a comprehensive overview of basketball fundamentals, covering everything from dribbling and passing to shooting and defense. It useful reference for understanding the core principles taught in the course. While not required, it offers additional depth and context to the material.
Focuses on the mental aspects of sports performance, including confidence, focus, and resilience. It can help students develop the mental toughness needed to improve their basketball skills. This book is more valuable as additional reading than it is as a current reference. It provides a good foundation for mental preparation.

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