Shooting is one of the most important skills in basketball—and the great thing is, kids can practice it on their own. A lot of kids will spend their time at a basketball hoop imitating Steph Curry or Michael Jordan, without any structure to their practice. Whether it’s in the driveway, at the park, or on an indoor hoop, solo shooting drills help young players build muscle memory, confidence, and accuracy. Below are some fun and effective basketball shooting drills kids can do alone.
1. Form Shooting Close to the Hoop
Every great shooter starts with solid fundamentals. Practicing close to the basket allows kids to focus on proper mechanics without worrying about strength or distance. When it comes to basketball shooting drills, form shooting is a must.
How to do it:
- Stand just a few feet from the basket.
- Focus on good hand placement, straight elbow, and finishing with a “gooseneck” follow-through.
- Aim to make 20–30 shots before stepping back.
2. Around the World Shooting
This classic basketball shooting drill helps players build consistency from multiple spots while learning how to shoot from different angles around the basket. It’s a fun way to keep practice engaging while still improving accuracy.
How to do it:
- Pick 5–7 shooting spots around the key (e.g., baseline, wing, free throw, opposite wing, opposite baseline).
- Take one shot from each spot, moving around the arc.
- If you miss, repeat the shot until you make it before moving on.
3. Spot Shooting with a Timer
Game situations require quick decision-making, and this drill teaches players to shoot accurately even under time pressure. It’s also a great way to track improvement week by week.
How to do it:
- Choose 3–5 spots on the court.
- Set a timer for 1–2 minutes.
- Take as many shots as you can, rebounding your own ball and resetting quickly.
- Track how many you make to measure improvement.
4. Free Throw Routine Practice
Free throws can make or break a close game. Among basketball shooting drills, this one to develop a reliable routine at the line not only builds consistency but also helps kids stay calm when it matters most.
How to do it:
- Stand at the free throw line and develop a consistent pre-shot routine (e.g., three dribbles, deep breath, shoot).
- Focus on calmness, rhythm, and repetition.
- Try to make 10 in a row—if you miss, restart the count.
5. Off-the-Dribble Shooting
Most game shots don’t come from standing still. Practicing how to shoot after dribbling prepares kids for real in-game scenarios when they have to create their own shot.
How to do it:
- Start at the top of the key with one dribble to the right → shoot.
- Then one dribble to the left → shoot.
- Add variations like two dribbles into a pull-up jumper.
- Repeat from different court spots.
6. Bank Shot Practice
Using the backboard isn’t just for layups—it’s an essential skill that can give young players a higher percentage shot, especially from short angles.
How to do it:
- Stand at the right block, then the left block.
- Shoot using the square on the backboard as a target.
- Work from different angles around the lane.
7. Beat the Pro (Solo Game)
Solo practice doesn’t have to feel lonely. Turning drills into games adds fun and motivation, and this one makes kids feel like they’re playing against real competition.
How to play:
- The player is themselves, and the “Pro” is an imaginary opponent.
- Take a shot—if you make it, you get 2 points. If you miss, the “Pro” gets 3 points.
- First to 21 wins.
- Kids can adjust scoring to make it easier or harder.
Final Tips for Solo Shooting Practice
Practicing alone can be just as productive as team drills if kids stay consistent and make it fun. Remember, focus on form first, distance second—bad habits stick if players shoot too far too early. Set small goals like “make 5 in a row” or “beat yesterday’s score,” and keep practices short and enjoyable. Even 15 minutes a day can make a huge difference in a young player’s confidence and shot.
Need equipment to get your basketball season started off right? Check out our articles detailing the best basketball hoops for kids and essential basketball training equipment list for kids.
