5 Game-Like Basketball Shooting Drills to Build Confident, Consistent Scorers

As coaches, we’re always looking for ways to get our players more reps, better reps, and game-like reps—without sacrificing tempo or toughness. That’s where these five basketball shooting drills come in.

Since we’ve already agreed that the more tools, the better–here are a few more you might like to check out after we dive into the 5 drills…

1. 7 Proven Strategies to Level Up Player Development Drills
2. Competitive Basketball Drills to Build Game-Ready Teams
3. How to Teach On-Ball Defense: Stick Hand, Bounce Timing & Reaction Gap
4. How to Execute a Great Basketball Practice

Okay, now let’s dive into the 5 game-like basketball shooting drills… Each one is designed to build rhythm, improve decision-making, and create shooters who are confident.

Here are five of our go-to drills at PGC:

1. One-Minute 3-Point Basketball Shooting Drill

Build rhythm, endurance, and confidence with this timed drill. Players aim to make 10 shots in 1 minute (level 1), 20 in 2 minutes (level 2), and 30 in 3 minutes (level 3).

This drill pushes shooters to find a tempo, stay locked in, and shoot through fatigue—just like they’ll need to in a game.

Watch the One-Minute 3-Point Basketball Shooting Drill

2. 7-Spot ‘Huie’ Basketball Shooting Drill

Inspired by coaching legend Hubie Brown, this drill trains rhythm and mental toughness. Players must make two shots in a row at each of seven spots in just two minutes.

Players get better at moving quickly, finding their rhythm, and learning how to shoot through early misses.

Watch the 7-Spot Basketball Shooting Drill

3. Crazy 8’s: Footwork & Shooting Under Pressure

Players sprint to space, catch on the move, and work through a progression of one-dribble pull-ups, shot fakes, and mid-range finishes.

It combines pace, footwork, and verbal cues to build habits that translate to in-game movement.

Watch the Crazy 8’s Basketball Shooting Drill

4. The ‘3 For’ Shooting Progression

This is one of our favorite drills to train shot consistency at different ranges. Players must make 3 in a row from midrange, 3 of 4 from the 3-point line, and 3 of 5 from NBA range.

This drill builds shot progression, adds accountability, and is perfect for tracking averages and personal bests.

Watch the 3 For Basketball Shooting Drill

5. Longhorn Basketball Shooting Drill

Shoot from one spot until you miss two in a row. Sounds simple—but it’s one of the most effective ways to teach shooters to push through misses and stay in rhythm.

It challenges players to focus deeply on each shot, get their eyes to the rim early, and work through the pressure of back-to-back misses.

Watch the Longhorn Basketball Shooting Drill

Each drill gives players a different kind of pressure and challenge. Use them in-season, off-season, or in pre-practice workouts. Add a time constraint or competitive layer, and be sure to track improvement.

FAQ: Mastering Game-Like Basketball Shooting Drills for Consistent Scoring

Q: What makes a basketball shooting drill “game-like”?

A: Game-like is just how it sounds. We’re shooting to mimic situations and conditions a player will face during a game. So things like decision making under pressure, fatigue, timing, and realistic defensive scenarios. Drills like Crazy 8’s and the One-Minute Drill incorporate movement and intensity that mirror real game pace, helping players transfer their practice skills directly to gameplay.

Q: How can I add time pressure to basketball shooting drills?

A: You can mimic this game-like situation by setting a timer. For example, in the 7-Spot Drill, players must make two shots at each spot in under two minutes. Time limits simulate game pressure and improve consistency.

Q: What’s the best way to structure these drills in a practice plan?

A: Use Longhorn Drill to start with rhythm, Crazy 8’s mid-practice for conditioning, and 3 For near the end for pressure reps. Rotate weekly for variety and growth.

Q: Can these drills be modified for different positions?

A: Yes. Adjust Crazy 8’s to elbow or short-corner, use 3 For with baseline shots, and run Longhorn from the key or elbow for post players.

Q: How do I give effective feedback during shooting drills?

A: Keep it short and actionable: “eyes up,” “set your base,” or “finish high.” Focus on mechanics, mindset, and game-like habits.

Q: What’s a good way to measure shooting improvement with these drills?

A: Use goals like hitting Level 3 in One-Minute Drill, tracking percentages in 3 For, or rounds survived in Longhorn. Use a chart or digital tracker.

Q: How do I teach players to reset mentally after a missed shot?

A: Use drills like Longhorn. Teach deep breaths, focus resets, and verbal cues like “next shot.” Encourage a growth mindset.

Q: Can these drills be used during individual workouts or only team practice?

A: Both. Individual sessions allow more reps; team practices add pace and accountability. Encourage players to self-track.

Q: Are there any off-season benefits to using these drills?

A: Absolutely. Off-season is perfect for building volume, footwork, and shooting under fatigue without pressure. Mix high-rep and high-pressure drills.

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About the Author

TJ Rosene

Coach TJ Rosene, head coach of the Emmanuel University men’s basketball team and Director of Coach Development for PGC Coaching, has spent his career shaping young athletes both on and off the court. With over 400 career wins and 12 seasons of 20+ wins, Rosene’s coaching experience is extensive and impressive. His teams have competed in six national championship games, winning three NCCAA National Championships. Under his leadership, the Lions made their NCAA Division II debut in 2018-19 and quickly captured two season titles and one tournament title, along with an appearance in the NCAA Division II Sweet 16 in 2021.

Rosene’s success expands far beyond the scoreboard. He’s been named National Coach of the Year three times and Conference Carolinas Coach of the Year twice. But for Coach Rosene, the most meaningful part of his work is the lasting impact he has on his players’ lives. As he puts it, “Coaching is a rare opportunity to shape and mold the lives of young people. It’s a privilege that I never take for granted.”