Earlier this year, I reported on the San Antonio Spurs hiring a free throw coach, ostensibly to fix Tim Duncan.
Not to blame the coach, but Duncan’s woes continue. This weekend, Duncan went 2 for 7; tonight, he was 1 for 11 before making two in a row to finish 3 for 13.
I must admit I have not seen the Spurs play this season. However, last season, I explained Duncan’s free throw shooting problems like this:
When Duncan comes set at the free throw line, his hands are on the sides of the ball. So, as he brings the ball from his set position at his waist to his shooting position, he twists his hand into shooting position with his hand under the ball.
This is extra, wasted motion which adds inconsistency. When working with young players, we simplify their shot as much as possible. I teach players to come set with their hand behind the ball and wrist already cocked. From this position, the players lifts the ball in a straight line to his shooting position: no extra or wasted motion, and therefore a more consistent shot.
If Duncan simply started the shot in this manner, the added consistency likely would lead to marked improvement at the charity stripe.
