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The Biomechanics in Basketball: Why Velocity Matters
- Robert Bernard
- Jul 5
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 11
In sports, there’s a right way to do things—and it shows. Athletes taught proper biomechanics by elite coaches move, perform, and carry themselves differently. Whether it's a baseball swing, a football throw, or a basketball shot, those trained correctly produce consistent, high-level results. Their success isn’t luck or talent alone—it’s the result of learning the right techniques. Most athletes, however, never learn these mechanics, leaving them stuck at an average level without realizing it.
What is Velocity?
Velocity is the speed of something in a given direction.
Why creating velocity matters?
In basketball, velocity is crucial for shooting because it directly affects the ball's trajectory, distance, and ability to clear defenders. A higher velocity, or speed, allows for a longer shot and a higher arc, potentially clearing defenders and increasing the likelihood of a successful basket.
The Problem is...
Like in other sports, novices attempt to throw farther or harder by using solely their upper body, unaware that what they are searching for is Velocity. They lack the correct mechanics to achieve Velocity in their throws and their performance suffers as they enter higher levels of competition.
How Velocity Impacts Shooting Success
Distance: The initial velocity of the ball determines how far it travels. Longer shots require a higher velocity to reach the basket.
*Arc/Trajectory: The combination of velocity and angle determines the parabolic path the ball takes.
Clearing Defenders: A higher velocity allows a shooter to release the ball quickly, making it harder for defenders to contest the shot.
Physics of Shooting: When shooting, the initial force applied to the ball, combined with gravity, creates a parabolic path. Understanding velocity helps optimize this trajectory.
Shot Consistency: While many factors contribute to shooting accuracy, research suggests that a consistent release velocity is a key factor in a player's ability to make shots.
Creating Velocity in Other Sports
Getting shoulder and hip separation to create velocity allows players to throw farther, harder, and more consistently with better control. Without this separation your success is limited in these areas.
...even in American Boxing...
Incorrect Mechanics: No shoulder and hip separation, throwing with mostly upper body = poor velocity.
Correct Mechanics: Shoulder is separate from hips, elbow extends/locks, snapping the punch thrown = good velocity.
How to Create Velocity in Basketball Throws (i.e. Shooting & Passing)
Now, understand how to use the legs to create velocity and get hip/shoulder separation.
Getting shoulder and hip separation in basketball is fun and simple to learn. Once you understand the "L" and proper leg usage you will be on your way to velocity in your shots and passes!
Practice it.
Conclusion:
Mastering the correct biomechanics in basketball is what separates the average from the exceptional. Like in baseball and football, these mechanics make the game more universal—those who learn them early and apply them consistently rise above the rest. College coaches aren’t just watching for talent; they’re searching for players with clean, repeatable mechanics. When they see it, they know the player can contribute right away. In basketball, proper mechanics aren’t optional—they’re essential. Once your shot is built on the right foundation, practice becomes the key to unlocking your full potential. That’s when the doors of opportunity truly begin to open.
Shalom.
Want to learn more?
Here are a few articles to check out to gain even more insight on the biomechanics of basketball
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