Basketball Shooting Progression Drill: Mastering the ‘3 For’ (Video Included)

As coaches, we’re always searching for a basketball shooting progression drill that develops consistency, range, and competitiveness in our players. One of our go-to drills to sharpen all three is what we call the “3 For” shooting progression.

It’s simple, measurable, and effective.

But before we dive in, here are a few more resources you may want to check out after you learn about the ‘3 For’ drill…

1. 5 Game-Like Shooting Drills to Build Confident, Consistent Scorers
2. Rebounding Drills to Build Toughness & Game-Winning Habits
3. 7 Proven Strategies to Level Up Player Development Drills

What is the “3 For” Basketball Shooting Progression Drill?

The concept is straightforward: players must hit a target number of shots at increasing distances—and they can only move on if they meet the standard.

Here’s the progression in this basketball shooting progression drill:

• Level 1: 15 feet — Must make 3 in a row
• Level 2: College three-point line — Make 3 out of 4
• Level 3: NBA range — Make 3 out of 5

You can run this drill from 3 spots or 5 spots around the arc. In the video below, we demonstrate a 3-spot version: right wing, top of the key, and left wing.

Why This Drill Works

• It Builds Confidence & Range
  By working backward in this basketball shooting progression drill, players earn their way to deeper distances.
• It Teaches Efficiency Under Pressure
  You only move on if you hit the standard. That pressure simulates game intensity.
• It Tracks Player Progress
  Time each session and track average and best scores. Players love chasing personal bests.
• It’s Adaptable for Any Age & Stage
  Don’t have shooters ready for NBA range? Adjust distances and expectations to fit your level.

Tips to Maximizing the Drill

Use 1 player, 1 rebounder, 1 ball for consistency.
Set clear rules: Only restart when it’s mathematically impossible to meet the shot requirement.
Record each player’s time so they can compete against themselves and teammates.

A Sample Progression

Let’s say you’re coaching a high school team:

• Corner: 3-for-3 at 15 ft
• Wing: 3-for-4 at high school 3-point range
• Top: 3-for-5 just outside high school 3-point range (or college line)

Keep it consistent in structure, and you’ll see your players develop rhythm, range, and reps.

Watch the full Basketball Shooting Progression Drill: Mastering the ‘3 For’ Video

The “3 For” basketball shooting progression drill is a favorite in our practices for good reason. It creates focused, high-quality reps that translate into game performance. Whether you’re training a middle schooler or a college athlete, it adapts to their level and pushes them to improve.

Set the standard. Track the time. Let players chase their best.

FAQ: The “3 For” Basketball Shooting Progression Drill for Consistency and Range

Q: What is the purpose of the “3 For” basketball shooting progression drill?

A: The goal of the “3 For” drill is to build shot consistency, range, and shooting under pressure. Players must hit target numbers at increasing distances:

• 3 in a row at midrange (15 ft)
• 3 of 4 at college three
• 3 of 5 at NBA range

Each level simulates game pressure by requiring a high standard before moving forward.

Use this drill to help players earn range and sharpen focus at every level.

Q: Why is this drill considered a progression?

A: The “3 For” format requires players to progress to deeper ranges only after achieving a goal at the current distance. This backward chaining (starting close and earning deeper range) improves mechanics, builds confidence, and ensures quality reps. Players develop better habits and shot control as they advance.

Coach each progression as a mini-goal to build discipline and composure.

Q: How many spots should I run the drill from?

A: You can run it from 3 or 5 spots depending on time, space, and player level. Common setups include:

• Right wing, top of key, left wing (3-spot)
• Corners, wings, top (5-spot)

The 3-spot format keeps intensity high and focuses players, while 5-spot adds variety and endurance.

Start with 3 spots to focus on form, then expand to 5 for added challenge.

Q: How do I scale this drill for younger or less experienced players?

A: Adjust the distances and make targets based on your team’s level:

• Use midrange for Level 2 (instead of college three)
• Use high school 3-point line instead of NBA range
• Allow for 2 of 3 instead of 3 of 4 at Level 2

The format stays the same, but the expectations meet the athlete’s current abilities.

Modify the challenge—not the structure—to promote steady improvement.

Q: How can I track progress using the “3 For” drill?

A: Record:

• Time to complete all three levels
• Total makes per spot
• Personal bests and averages

Players can compete with themselves over time, and coaches can chart progress throughout the season. Tracking performance boosts accountability and motivation.

Use a whiteboard or shooting chart to log progress and build a culture of improvement.

Q: Why is this drill good for simulating game pressure?

A: Players only advance if they meet strict shot standards, simulating the pressure of must-make situations in games. The format requires focus, confidence, and control—even after misses. The pressure to perform within a small margin mimics late-game shooting scenarios.

Encourage players to treat each shot in the drill like a game-winning opportunity.

Q: Should players self-pass, or use a rebounder?

A: Using a rebounder or passer is preferred for rhythm, consistency, and faster reps. One player, one rebounder, one ball keeps things clean. If self-passing, emphasize hustle and footwork to maintain intensity. Partnering up also builds communication and flow.

Assign rebounders to increase pace and simulate real shooting scenarios.

Q: What are the best coaching cues for this drill?

A: Emphasize:

• Consistent footwork and shooting mechanics
• Eyes up and balanced follow-through
• Resetting focus after a miss
• Managing tempo and shot quality under pressure

These cues reinforce both technique and mindset during the progression.

Coach effort, intent, and precision at each level—not just makes and misses.

Q: How often should I use this drill in workouts?

A: Use the “3 For” progression 1–2 times per week to:

• Reinforce shot standards
• Track measurable growth
• Build range and rhythm

It works well as a standalone segment or paired with footwork and movement drills.

Rotate this drill into your weekly shooting plan to keep players sharp and accountable.

Q: Where can I find more shooting progression drills and coaching tools?

A: You’ll find a full library of game-tested shooting drills, breakdowns, and coaching plans in the PGC Coaching Community. With a free 7-day trial, you’ll gain access to exclusive progressions that improve mechanics, mindset, and range.

It’s your go-to resource for consistent skill development and team success.

Start your free trial of the PGC Coaching Community and explore more shooting progressions today.

Make the “3 For” Part of Your Shooting Culture

The best shooters thrive on structure, challenge, and feedback. The “3 For” shooting progression builds all three—helping players sharpen mechanics, stretch their range, and build confidence under pressure.

TJ

Check out all of our offensive drills and strategy resources here.

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.”