The Coach Dave Love Podcast The Truth About Shooting Devices
Feb 17, 2026
Dave Love, an NBA shooting coach known for biomechanics and motor learning work, breaks down the boom in shooting devices. He explains risks like dependency and non-representative feedback. Short device use, constraint-based alternatives, and drill design get practical attention. He also contrasts training tools like machines, straps, weighted balls, and tape with better coaching approaches.
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Practice With Clear Intent
- Coaches should prioritize intentional teaching: define what you want players to work on before practice.
- Dave Love offers a free newsletter with shooting principles and drill design to help coaches improve teaching.
Fix Thumb Flicks Without Gimmicks
- Avoid thumb-pinching hacks; instead exaggerate removing the guide hand at the set point using ABC or slow-to-quick progressions.
- Keep drills representative and progress from game-like contexts down only as needed.
Don't Rely On Shooting Straps
- Avoid shooting straps that lock movement and create siloed skills; limit reps and take the strap off quickly.
- Use exaggerated guide-hand removal drills to build transferable feeling instead.