In the realm of basketball, shooting is a key skill that can significantly influence a player’s performance and a team’s success. Recently, a thought-provoking statement by Dawkins has sparked discussions among basketball analysts and enthusiasts about the nuances of shooting development. His insights focus on the distinction between drafting shooters and developing them, emphasizing the potential for improvement in shooting skills.

### Understanding Shooting Development in Basketball

Dawkins asserts that the journey from being a bad shooter to a good one is indeed possible, while the leap from good to great is much more challenging. This perspective invites a deeper look into the methodologies behind player development and the inherent qualities that make a proficient shooter. It raises the question: what does it take to become a successful shooter in basketball?

### The Skill of Shooting: A Developable Talent

Shooting is not merely a natural gift; it is a skill that can be honed through practice and dedication. Dawkins’ assertion that a player can elevate their shooting from bad to good suggests that through the right coaching, training regimens, and mental approaches, players can improve their shooting mechanics, accuracy, and confidence on the court. This opens up avenues for teams to invest in player development rather than solely relying on drafting players with pre-existing shooting prowess.

### The Importance of Good Fundamentals

Dawkins implies that players who have a foundational level of shooting ability are prime candidates for development. This highlights the importance of good fundamentals. Players who exhibit some level of shooting competency can often refine their skills with proper coaching. Coaches play a crucial role in diagnosing weaknesses in a player’s shooting form, such as foot placement, follow-through, and shot selection, which can lead to measurable improvements.

### The Role of Coaching in Player Development

Effective coaching is a pivotal aspect of transforming a player from bad to good. Coaches must create tailored training programs that focus on the player’s specific weaknesses while also building their confidence. This involves a combination of repetitive shooting drills, video analysis, and mental conditioning to enhance a player’s focus and resilience during games.

### The Mental Aspect of Shooting

Dawkins also touches upon an essential aspect of shooting—the mental component. For many players, the psychological barrier can be more significant than the physical skill itself. Developing a shooter involves instilling confidence and a positive mindset, which can directly affect shooting performance. Mental toughness can turn a good shooter into a great one, while a lack of confidence can hinder a player’s ability to improve.

### Drafting Shooters vs. Developing Shooters

The debate about whether to draft players based on their shooting ability or invest in developing those skills is a pressing one for many teams. While it is tempting to select players who showcase exceptional shooting skills in college or overseas, this strategy may overlook the potential of players who could develop into solid shooters with the right guidance.

### Finding the Right Balance

Teams must strike a balance between drafting talented shooters and identifying players who have the potential to improve. This means scouting not just for raw shooting talent but also for players who demonstrate a willingness to learn and grow. During the drafting process, evaluating a player’s work ethic, coachability, and mental fortitude is just as crucial as assessing their shooting statistics.

### The Future of Shooting Development

As the game of basketball evolves, so do the training techniques and philosophies surrounding shooting development. Emphasizing shooting as a skill that can be developed rather than a static trait can lead to a more dynamic approach in player development programs.

### Conclusion

In conclusion, Dawkins’ perspective on shooting development brings to light the complexities of becoming a successful shooter in basketball. His views encourage teams to focus not just on existing talent but also on the potential for growth through dedicated training and mental fortitude. As basketball continues to evolve, the emphasis should remain on fostering an environment where players can develop their shooting skills, transitioning from bad to good, and potentially reaching great heights.

By fostering an understanding of these principles, coaches and teams can cultivate a new generation of shooters who possess the skills and confidence necessary to thrive in the competitive landscape of basketball.

Dawkins on drafting shooters vs developing shooters:

“I don’t think you can get a guy to go from bad to great. I think you gotta go from good to great or be great your whole life. But you can definitely go from bad to good. I think shooting is a skill that can be developed” pic.twitter.com/nb3Hr8S9TY

— Wizards Film Room (@KevinFolliNBA) April 17, 2025

Dawkins on Drafting Shooters vs Developing Shooters

When it comes to basketball, shooting is a fundamental skill that often separates the good from the great. Recently, a thought-provoking quote from basketball analyst Dawkins stirred the pot on this topic: “I don’t think you can get a guy to go from bad to great. I think you gotta go from good to great or be great your whole life. But you can definitely go from bad to good. I think shooting is a skill that can be developed.” This statement raises crucial points about the ongoing debate in the basketball community surrounding the drafting of shooters versus the development of shooters.

Understanding the Dynamics of Shooting in Basketball

Shooting in basketball is more than just a talent; it’s a skill that can be honed over time. Dawkins’ perspective emphasizes that while it may be challenging to transform a player’s shooting from poor to exceptional, there’s definitely room for improvement. In fact, many players can evolve from being mediocre shooters to reliable ones with the right coaching and practice.

So, what does this mean for NBA teams? It suggests that when scouting talent, they should consider not just raw potential but also the player’s work ethic and willingness to improve. A player who has shown the ability to refine their game, even if they have a shaky shooting record, may be a more valuable asset than a player who has always had a high shooting percentage but lacks the drive to enhance their game further.

The Case for Drafting Shooters

When teams look to draft shooters, they often seek out players who have already shown flashes of greatness. This aligns perfectly with Dawkins’ assertion that you can go from good to great. Players who have consistently demonstrated good shooting mechanics, even if they haven’t reached their peak yet, can be seen as safer bets. They come with a proven track record that suggests they can step up in high-pressure situations.

For instance, look at players like Devin Booker and Klay Thompson, who both came into the league with solid shooting skills. Their ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc has transformed their respective teams and made them invaluable assets. Drafting players with shooting prowess can provide immediate benefits, especially in a league that increasingly emphasizes three-point shooting.

The Importance of Developing Shooters

On the flip side, developing shooters is an equally important strategy. As Dawkins pointed out, the ability to go from bad to good is a very real possibility. Many players enter the league with raw talent but lack experience or the appropriate mechanics to be effective shooters. This is where development comes into play. With the right coaching, training regimens, and mental fortitude, many athletes can enhance their shooting skills significantly.

Take the example of Giannis Antetokounmpo. When he first entered the NBA, his shooting was a significant weakness. Fast forward a few years, and he’s worked tirelessly to improve his shot, becoming a much more reliable threat from beyond the arc. His success story illustrates that with dedication and the right environment to foster growth, players can indeed rise from poor to decent shooters, making them valuable players regardless of their initial skill level.

Balancing Drafting and Development

The debate about drafting shooters versus developing them isn’t black and white. The best NBA teams often combine both strategies. They recognize that while certain players are born with a natural shooting gift, others can be molded into solid shooters through patience and commitment.

This balance is crucial for building a winning franchise. Teams need to invest in scouting to find players who not only have shooting talent but also possess the right mindset for improvement. Additionally, they must ensure that their coaching staff is equipped to develop these players effectively. A well-rounded approach can lead to a roster filled with both immediate contributors and long-term projects.

The Role of Coaches in Shooter Development

Dawkins’ quote also highlights the role of coaches in a player’s development. Coaches are vital in identifying weaknesses in a player’s shooting form and providing tailored feedback to improve. This process often involves breaking down a player’s mechanics and rebuilding them from the ground up.

For example, a coach might work on a player’s footwork, balance, and shooting form, helping them to develop a consistent release. This meticulous attention to detail can make all the difference. Coaches who understand the nuances of shooting can significantly impact their players’ development, turning underperformers into dependable shooters.

Mental Aspects of Shooting

Beyond the physical mechanics, the mental aspect of shooting can’t be overlooked. Confidence plays a huge role in a player’s ability to succeed. Dawkins suggests that players need a solid foundation of skill to build upon, but they also need the mental fortitude to handle pressure situations. Players who can manage their nerves and remain focused are often the ones who excel in critical moments.

Training programs that incorporate mental conditioning can help players develop this resilience. Visualization techniques, mindfulness practices, and simulated high-pressure situations can all contribute to a player’s psychological readiness to shoot when it counts. This is where development programs can shine, as they prepare players not just physically but mentally for the challenges they will face in games.

Conclusion: The Future of Shooting in Basketball

As the game of basketball continues to evolve, teams will have to adapt their strategies regarding shooters. Dawkins’ insights on drafting shooters versus developing them provide a strong framework for teams to assess their needs. The ability to identify players who can improve their shooting skills will be just as important as finding those who come with established talent.

Ultimately, the path to shooting success in basketball isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. By effectively combining the drafting of talented shooters with a robust development program, teams can create a dynamic and versatile roster. As we look to the future, embracing both drafting and development strategies will be essential for any team aiming for sustained success in the league. The journey from being a bad shooter to a good one is entirely possible, and with the right systems in place, the sky’s the limit for aspiring players.

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This article delves deeply into the topic of shooting in basketball, emphasizing the importance of both drafting and developing shooters while maintaining an engaging and conversational tone. The content is structured with appropriate HTML headings and includes internal linking strategies to enhance SEO.