What Is an Airball?
In the world of basketball, an airball is a shot that is completely missed and fails to hit the rim, the backboard, or any other part of the basket. Airballs are often embarrassing for the shooter and can lead to derisive laughter from the crowd.
When shooting from outside the three-point line, an airball is not as uncommon as one might think. Professional players miss shots from long distances all the time. But when it happens inside the three-point line, it’s usually a sign of a rushed or poorly executed shot.
What Happens if You Airball in the NBA?
First and foremost, airballs can be embarrassing for the shooter, especially if it happens in a highly-publicized game or a big moment. It’s not something any player wants to be remembered for.
But the repercussions of an airball in the NBA don’t end there. Depending on the game situation and the player’s own history, it could lead to a wide range of consequences.
1. Loss of Confidence
The most immediate consequence of an airball is a loss of confidence. It can be a blow to the shooter’s ego, especially if they’ve been playing well up to that point.
Players often struggle to regain their confidence after an airball, and it can affect their performance on the court for the rest of the game.
2. Loss of Playing Time
A big airball in a key moment of the game could lead to a player losing playing time. Coaches are often quick to punish players who make costly mistakes, and an airball could be seen as one of those mistakes.
If a player has a history of airballs, it could even lead to a demotion or benching. Coaches want players who can make shots and avoid costly mistakes, and an airball could lead them to look for someone else.
3. Loss of Reputation
Airballs can also have a negative impact on a player’s reputation. In the NBA, shooting is one of the most important skills, and a player’s ability to make shots can define their entire career.
If a player is known for airballing shots, it could lead to a loss of respect from coaches, teammates, and even fans. It could also lead to criticism from the media and a decline in endorsement opportunities.
4. Loss of Focus
An airball can also lead to a loss of focus. It can be hard to stay motivated and focused after an embarrassing shot, and it can lead to a decline in performance.
Players often struggle to get their minds back in the game after an airball, and it can lead to a decrease in production.
How to Avoid Airballs
The best way to avoid airballs is to practice proper shooting technique. Here are some tips to help increase your shooting accuracy and avoid airballs:
1. Take Your Time
When shooting, it’s important to take your time and make sure you have a good look at the basket. Rushing a shot can lead to rushed shots and airballs.
2. Use Your Fingers
Using your fingers to guide the ball to the basket can help increase accuracy and avoid airballs. Focus on using your fingers to guide the ball rather than your arm.
3. Follow Through
Follow through is crucial when shooting. A good follow through can help you generate more power and accuracy with your shots, and it can help you avoid airballs.
4. Visualize the Shot
Visualizing the shot before you take it can help you improve your accuracy. Take a few moments to visualize the shot before you take it, and focus on making a successful shot.
Conclusion
Airballs can be embarrassing for the shooter, and they can have a negative impact on their confidence, playing time, reputation, and focus. The best way to avoid airballs is to practice proper shooting technique and take your time with each shot.