Peaks and Valleys on "O"
Fans often wonder why players in the NBA can look so great shooting the ball one stretch, and then go into a slump that lasts over multiple games or weeks. An "ailment" the Bulls have been afflicted with at different points this season. If I knew how to prevent poor shooting streaks, I'd still be coaching. What I will tell you, is that shooting slumps are just part of the game. The offensive game is often one of peaks and valleys. The key is to not let the struggles on the offensive end, affect how you play defense, for one. The other most important thing is to keep shooting it!
There's really no coaching that can get a player out of a slump. By the time a player reaches the NBA, his mechanics aren't the issue. It's usually about confidence, and shot selection. Some players will stay after practice a little longer when they are not hitting their shots, but you really can't duplicate what a shooter faces in a game. The more you struggle, the more shot-selection needs to be stressed.
And, again... I stress: you gotta keep shooting! A guy like Andres Nocioni, who has struggled from the field lately, is going to try to shoot his way out of it. Noce is funny... he won't pass up shots whether he's makin' or missin'! He's been around long enough to know he's not going to struggle forever!
Another important thing is to not change or tinker with your shot... that's how a prolonged slump happens and becomes worse. There's an old saying amongst shooters: 'If they're going in I'm Hot, and if I'm missing, I'm due.'
Keep shooting it boys!
Red