“I don’t get too excited about shots I make because I’m supposed make them. I’m more perplexed when I don’t make it.” - Jesus Shuttlesworth.
Once an afterthought in basketball, the art of shooting has become one of the games most interesting subjects to study. From Reggie Miller, Ray Allen, Larry Bird and Stephen Curry all have different shooting mechanics in a sense but they all have been extremely effective from beyond the arc.
One thing about the art of shooting is clear though: there is a method to the madness. For those shooting savants, TheDribbleDrop has started a new feature series called “Respect The Shooter.” Each article will discuss the ins and outs of shooting.
Next up is Rumson-Fair Haven guard Tori Hyduke. The sensational shooter is averaging over 31 points per game this year. Hyduke is also knocking down 3 three pointers made per game thus far.
The George Washington commit has also knocked down 4 three pointers or more in a game seven times this year.
By Christian Mordi / @thedribbledrop
TheDribbleDrop: In your opinion, who are the top three shooters all time?
Tori Hyduke: I’m going to stay current with players I have seen a lot of. Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant and Kobe Bryant.
I’m taking into account pure shooting and scoring on the entire floor, which means the mid-range as well. Curry can shoot just about anywhere, but Kevin and Kobe were great from mid-range.
TheDribbleDrop: Tell me two or three drills you do to improve your shooting?
Tori Hyduke: I worked very hard this summer to improve my shooting off the dribble. This year I knew I would have to play a different role on my team. I prepared a lot this summer to put my team in the best position to succeed.
One thing I focused on was shooting the ball more everyday. I would have cones set up on the floor and shoot off the dribble from seven different spots around the basket.
TheDribbleDrop: Best piece of advice you got from someone teaching you how to shoot or from a fellow shooter?
Tori Hyduke: A lot of people like to talk about fundamentals, which is important. It’s important to learn proper shooting technique.
With that being said, some of the best advice I got was on the mental side. To shoot with confidence. Everytime I shoot I visualize myself making it and tell myself every shot is going in. It doesn’t matter who is guarding me or where I shoot from. It’s going in.
TheDribbleDrop: What’s more important: a quick release, foot placement or arm form?
Tori Hyduke: Foot placement is key. The best players can hit shots off balance but that’s extremely difficult to do. I think it’s very important to keep your feet square to the basket.
TheDribbleDrop: Would you say shooting more about your arms or legs when extending your range?
Tori Hyduke: Legs. My AAU coach Mary Beth Chambers used to tell me that you shouldn’t be shooting with your arms at all. It’s all legs. She’s someone I respect a lot and she knows her stuff. Especially the deeper you go in regards to range. You have to use your legs.
TheDribbleDrop: Which rock are you guys shooting with: Wave ball or Evolution?
Tori Hyduke: My personal ball that I practice with is an Evolution.
TheDribbleDrop: If I were new to shooting a basketball, what’s the most important piece of advice you would give me?
Tori Hyduke: Keep your body square to the basket and keep your follow through up. It’s very important that you keep your checkpoint until the ball goes into the basket.