Every Player Thinks They Can Shoot – But What Defines A Great Shooter?

Many players at all levels overrate their shooting ability.   For players who do, they really need to be aware of the 7 players in the history of the NBA who have qualified for the 50-40-90 Club by shooting 50% from the floor, 40% from behind the arc and 90% from the FT line over an ENTIRE season.

They are, in no particular order:

  • Stephen Curry
  • Kevin Durant
  • Mark Price
  • Reggie Miller
  • Steve Nash
  • Dirk Nowitzki
  • Larry Bird

Steve Nash and Larry Bird accomplished the feat in MULTIPLE SEASONS and Nash almost achieved it over his ENTIRE 18 YEAR CAREER (49%, 43%, 90%).

If every player just wrote down on a sheet of paper their current FG%, 3 PT FG% and FT%, the results and the realization of where they stand in the big picture would be shocking in most cases.  Players might realize they have a lot more work to put in to attain shooting greatness.

Now, while it’s not realistic for every single college and high school player to set such lofty goals, the numbers set by those 7 NBA players should serve as reminders of what is humanly possible.  Players could use the 50-40-90 Club members as role models but perhaps set scaled-down versions of the goal. Maybe a 45-35-80 combo could be achievable for some, while other realistic variations might be suitable for others.

The key is recognizing that shooting high percentages across the board isn’t accidental.  It starts with the recognition that high percentages are most desirable and achievable. Then, one needs to dedicate to a goal and practice diligently to achieve it.  

If you want more Steph Curry basketball training videos and drills take a look at this class with Steph Curry teaching shooting, ball handling and scoring.  

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