Rondo's Never-Ending Search for a Free Throw that Works

Shooting free throws is about routine. Every great free throw shooter has theirs down pat. Rondo never had one, really. However, this pre-season, Rondo shot 77% from the line. Here's the evolution of Rondo's over the years.





The routine: eyes down, 3 dribbles, crouch, spot the rim, shoot with a high, exaggerated release. Elbows flared out to sides, full frontal position.










The routine: a hamstring stretch, get the ball from the ref, shake the
shoulders loose, one dribble, spot the rim, crouch, shoot with a more
normal, not as exaggerated release. Elbows still flared. Looks like he brings the ball further back too.












The routine: receive the ball, shake the shoulders loose, 3 dribbles, spot the rim, much less of a crouch, usual release.











The routine: receive the ball, set feet, check the rim, one dribble, spot the rim, comfortable crouch, usual release.






2013 means this pre-season, the start of the 2012-2013 season...









The routine: shake wrists loose, receive the ball, check the rim, one
dribble, spot the rim, crouch and directly into shooting motion. Elbow appears to be more tucked in, his shoulders appear to be more turned (more like if he was shooting a fg) and less straight-on.





bob




.

This year he isn't shooting the ball as high as he did in the first year. His form is definitely getting better.

Hi,
I believe that his inability to hit high % of FT and especially jumpers is due to mental "hiccup". So far, in the preseason games it looks like he managed to get loose. I hope it will continue into the season and playoffs.
Can you imagine RR hitting 75% of FTs. With his quickness and penetrating abilities it'll be a killer.

AK