Passing Is Shooting: Simplifying Both

by Coach Robert

At first glance, passing and shooting may seem like two separate skills in basketball. One moves the ball to a teammate, while the other aims to score points. However, when you break it down, passing and shooting share the same fundamental principle: delivering the ball to a target away from you with controlled precision. Understanding this connection makes both skills easier to grasp and execute with confidence.

• Same Concept, Different Targets
  

• Both passing and shooting require:
  

• Releasing the ball from your fingertips
  

• Ball Control to a specific target
  

• Applying the appropriate trajectory for the target
  

Target for passing

When passing, your target is the front of your teammate’s body, typically shown by their hands. This is where they expect to receive the ball efficiently.

Target for shooting

When shooting, your target is the front of the basket, which is visually indicated by the links of the net attached to it.

By recognizing that shooting is essentially a form of passing—just to a different type of target—you can simplify your approach to both.

The Key Difference: Trajectory

While the targets differ, the biggest distinction between passing and shooting lies in trajectory:

Passing requires a flat trajectory to ensure a direct, controlled delivery to a teammate.

Shooting requires a parabolic trajectory to allow the ball to drop into the basket.

This contrast is what makes passing and shooting both unique and easy to understand. Instead of thinking of them as entirely different skills, recognize that they are two versions of the same action with slight variations.

Understanding Stance

Optimal stance for flat trajectory

Next time you're practicing, start by getting into your passing stance—balanced, engaged, and ready to deliver the ball. When transitioning to a shot, maintain that same stance and simply adjust it for the optimal trajectory.

Optimal stance for parabola trajectory

That’s all there is to it! Feel free to try the "thumbs down" technique for both passing and shooting to ensure you are using your fingertips and not your palm.

Mastering this connection will not only improve your understanding but also build confidence in your passing and shooting abilities. Remember, the simpler you make the game, the easier it becomes to execute at a high level.

Shalom.