Why can I shoot over 90% on my free throws at practice, but only 50% in the game?!?!
Slayt: 2
Maybe you should try not standing at the free throw line shooting 100 shots in a row.
Slayt: 3
Who do you think you are, Steph Curry?
Slayt: 4
No, but I am Steph Curry's Certified Mental Performance Counselor
Slayt: 5
Oh...Then what do you suggest I do?
Slayt: 6
Well, for starters you can stop standing at the free throw line for 100 shots.
Slayt: 7
Next, I want you sprinting from the opposite baseline to the free throw line between each shot
Slayt: 8
That sounds exhausting!!!
Slayt: 9
You're right, but in the game your level of arousal is elevated due to your activity level.
Slayt: 10
Not to mention the added pressure of shooting in front of a live crowd!
Slayt: 11
Fair point, but how beneficial is practicing to exhaustion?
Slayt: 12
The goal isn't to practice to exhaustion, but it's to practice the skill at a similar arousal level.
Slayt: 13
Each time you get back to the free throw line, take a few seconds for several deep, calming breaths.
Slayt: 14
Imagine yourself making the free throw and shoot.
Slayt: 15
Once you release the ball, sprint back to the other baseline and start again.
Slayt: 16
I think I understand. I am practicing at the same arousal level as I will compete in, and by using mental imagery I can focus on making the shot every time.
Slayt: 17
This is exhausting! Why do I keep missing so many shots!
Slayt: 18
Likely for the same reason you were shooting so poorly in games!
Slayt: 19
You're training yourself to make free throws when you're tired and highly stimulated.
Slayt: 20
That's it! Keep practicing like this, and your free throw percentage is sure to go up!