Does An Individual's Finger Length And Finger Spacing Affect The Shot?

/ by / Bob Fisher / on / May 18, 2010 @ 12:42 am

Shooting is an optimization problem.  Each of us has the capability to shoot a variety of ways with some degree of success.  To advocate one universal way that is the best for everyone is ridiculous.  Effective shooting requires finding a balance between simple physics and anatomy - simple physics in the sense of applying appropriate force to a symmetrical sphere in order to send it into the basket.  Due to anatomical differences, the best method for doing this will vary among individuals.   We are all different.  If I was a clone of Steve Kerr or Stephen Curry, I could imitate their shooting form with great success.  However, since I am not, adjustments must be made.

An important overlooked factor in shooting is hand size, finger length, and finger spacing. Specifically, exactly where should a person place their fingers on the ball? Finger placement on the ball can influence the wrist action which will happen during the wrist snap phase.  Each individual’s strongest position of the wrist is unique.  However, on average, according to a study by the University of Pittsburg, the strongest position of the wrist is 7 degrees ulnar deviation (ulnar deviation is slightly turned out).  

Intuitively, we know the strongest position of our wrist - if you squeeze a tennis ball a number of times or arm-wrestle someone, your wrist will naturally find this position. The most natural movement of the wrist is called the ‘dart-throwers motion’ which is radial/extension (angled in and cocked back) to ulnar/flexion (out and away).  If you were to sustain a wrist injury, this is the first movement you would be allowed to do, once you began the rehabilitative process.

Although you can train yourself to shoot in a variety of ways (who hasn’t imitated famous players?) and achieve a certain level of success, utilizing your most natural, repeatable motion will provide you with your best shot.  When you utilize the natural pulling motion of your wrist muscles by using the ‘dart-throwers motion’, in conjunction with using the strongest position of the wrist, your accuracy and consistency will improve and you will extend your range as well.