What are "The Links"

by Coach Robert

In the world of basketball shooting, small details make all the difference. One of the most underrated yet effective targeting methods is using "the links"—those metal loops that attach the net to the rim. While players call them different names—hooks, net lines, spokes—their function remains the same: they serve as reliable visual targets for improving shot accuracy.

Why Focus on the Links?

The links provide visual cues for your targeting, allowing you to align your body and shot/throw with precision. Unlike targeting the rim as a whole, which can feel vague, choosing a single link helps narrow your focus, creating a straight line pathway for the ball to travel to. This method eliminates unnecessary visual noise and gives you a specific, consistent target every time you shoot.

When you lock in on a link, it becomes unforgettable—it burns into your mind like a mental landmark. This makes it easier to repeat successful shots, building confidence by throwing the ball to the same spots along the rim, every shot.

Seeing the Links

A Single Link Rim

"Targeting the links" means actively seeking out and aligning your body with specific links before shooting. It takes practice to incorporate into a game, but once mastered, it becomes second nature. Many shooters struggle initially to trust the links, but with repetition, they experience a significant boost in accuracy, touch, shot consistency, and focus.

A Dual Link Rim

Targeting the links also provides a perceivable straight-line reference for your eyes. Instead of estimating where the ball should go, you have a precise visual cue to follow, reinforcing your body's natural targeting instincts.

Targeting The Links

When coaches refer to "targeting", they are talking about picking a spot on the basket to use as a visual cue for our shot. To target, a player moves to any position on the court and gets their eyes on the basket. What they are looking for are the links. There are 2 types of visual cues to look for: If you see 3 links facing you, the shooter should aim for the link in the center of the three. If you move to another position and look at the basket, notice there are 2 links facing you this time. With 2 links, the shooter should aim for both links. This is called LCR Targeting, because it gives a shooter the perception of left, center, and right when targeting the basket. The ball must stay center rim in order to fit the easiest, if the ball travels too far left or right of the position of the shooter, then the ball will have less and less entry angle to the basket. Similar to having a flat shot.

There are 7 spots per hemisphere of the basket. 2 targets at the point position, 3 targets at the wing position, and 2 targets at the corner position.  

Try It for Yourself

If you're looking to improve your shooting accuracy, start by choosing any position before each shot and aligning your body to a specific target, 3 links or 2 links. Be intentional and precise—over time, this small shift in focus can transform your shot-making ability.

Give it a try, and watch how targeting the links changes the way you see the basket forever.

Master it.