ABSTRACT
Basketball shooting is a dynamic, multi-segmental skill requiring considerable accuracy. The scientific and coaching literature advocate replication of movement patterns, although the extent to which this is achieved is not known. This also raises the question of whether inaccurate shots are characterized by greater variability than accurate shots. Finally, theoretical considerations suggest that longrange shots would be more variable than would short-range shots. As inaccurate free throws were characterized by greater variability in linear speed at segment endpoints than accurate shots, coaches should stress the development of a consistent movement pattern. Greater variability in the same variables for longrange shots suggest that a ball release angle close to that requiring the minimum release speed would be advantageous.
