“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 St. Benedict's Prep wing Lester Quinones. The sensational shooter is knocking down 3 three pointers made per game thus far. The Gray Bee has also knocked down 4 or more three pointers in a game five times this year thus far.
By Christian Mordi / @thedribbledrop
TheDribbleDrop: In your opinion, who are the top three shooters all time?
Lester Quinones: Ray Allen, Stephen Curry, Chris Mullin
TheDribbleDrop: Tell me two or three drills you do to improve your shooting?
Lester Quinones: I do a lot of footwork. Out of the ordinary footwork type of drills. I work on turn around shots. Shooting off of both pivots.
Catching on the move with good or bad passes. Some high, some low, some right on the money. That prepares me best for what things may be like in a game.
TheDribbleDrop: Best piece of advice you got from someone teaching you how to shoot or from a fellow shooter?
Lester Quinones: Probably my dad. He's the one who I practice with and the one who taught me how to shoot. Best piece of advice he gave me was to focus on my balance and never look down when I'm shooting. Keep your eye on the target and arc the ball.
TheDribbleDrop: What’s more important: a quick release, foot placement or arm form?
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Lester Quinones: All of those things you need in order to become a good shooter. I think one thing many players don't focus on is what they do before the ball arrives. Having all their mechanics right before the ball hits their hands. That's more than half the battle of shooting.
I would say foot placement and balance is the most important thing though.
TheDribbleDrop: Would you say shooting more about your arms or legs when extending your range?
Lester Quinones: It's all about your legs. You can't shoot a ball standing straight up. It's weird. The further out you go, the more you need your legs to generate power. If you shoot all arms you won't be consistent.
TheDribbleDrop: Which rock are you guys shooting with: Wave ball or Evolution?
Lester Quinones: Evolution.
TheDribbleDrop: If I were new to shooting a basketball, what’s the most important piece of advice you would give me?
Lester Quinones: Shoot the same way every time. Be consistent with your routine and form. Master your mechanics.
TheDribbleDrop: Anything else you want to share about shooting?
Lester Quinones: I feel like everyone in the NBA can shoot now. From the 1 to the 5. Rarely do you see a good big man that can't hit a mid range shot.