

The Coach Dave Love Podcast
NBA Shooting Coach Dave Love
Evidence based basketball shooting insights from an NBA Shooting Coach.
Join NBA Shooting Coach Dave Love, host Matt Robertson, and guests for discussions about basketball shooting development.
Join NBA Shooting Coach Dave Love, host Matt Robertson, and guests for discussions about basketball shooting development.
Episodes
Mentioned books

6 snips
Mar 3, 2026 • 51min
The Challenge Point and Task Complexity
Dave Love, an NBA shooting coach and educator focused on evidence-based shooting and motor learning, outlines the Challenge Point Framework and task complexity. He explains finding optimal difficulty for each player. Multiple short takes cover adjusting challenge during workouts, seven levers to tweak task demands, and balancing execution with realistic make-rate targets.

Feb 17, 2026 • 1h 6min
The Truth About Shooting Devices
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.

7 snips
Feb 3, 2026 • 1h
Positive Power Revisited
They break down Positive and Negative Power in shooting mechanics and why those forces matter. They frame these ideas inside an ecological motor-learning approach. Practical coaching tips cover where negative power comes from and which movement parts to target. Listeners get drills, constraint-based teaching strategies, and ways to build adaptable positive-power solutions.

9 snips
Jan 20, 2026 • 51min
How I Work On Arc
Dave Love, an NBA shooting coach known for his expertise in biomechanics and motor learning, dives deep into the nuances of shot arc. He explains how to accurately diagnose whether a player's arc is problematic and highlights common physical habits that lead to flat shots. Dave emphasizes that leg power is often misunderstood and showcases how arm mechanics play a larger role. Listeners will gain practical insights and drills to effectively improve shooting arc, making it essential for coaches at any level.

4 snips
Dec 16, 2025 • 55min
Periodization of Shooting Training
Dave Love, an NBA shooting coach and researcher, discusses the impactful concept of periodization in shooting training. He breaks down the phases of shooting development, including movement coordination and skill adaptability, emphasizing the need for intentional practice schedules based on player needs. Love shares concrete drills and weekly plans tailored for various levels, along with the importance of moving between practice types to maximize performance. This insightful conversation bridges theory with practical strategies for coaches looking to enhance their athletes' shooting skills.

10 snips
Dec 9, 2025 • 59min
The Importance of the Set Point
Dave Love, an NBA shooting coach and expert in biomechanics, joins to delve into the vital yet overlooked concept of the Set Point in shooting. He explains its biomechanical significance and why it trumps other shot elements. Discover how to train this key transition for enhanced accuracy, the common mistakes players make, and the crucial role of video feedback in correcting set-point mechanics. Love also draws intriguing parallels between shooting and golf, emphasizing the physics of impact. Tune in for practical drills tailored to various skill levels!

Dec 2, 2025 • 49min
Is Form Shooting for Pros, Not Beginners?
In this episode of The Coach Dave Love Podcast, we challenge one of the most common assumptions in basketball development: that form shooting is a beginner’s tool.Coach Dave explains:Why traditional form shooting may actually do more harm than good for young playersHow certain pros can benefit from form shooting—when it's done with the right intent and designWhat coaches can do instead to teach mechanics without over-restricting explorationWe also answer a listener question about female youth players and the use of lower set points, and how to help players without locking them into habits they’ll need to break later.📖 Supporting blog: Is Form Shooting for Pros?🎧 Got a question you want featured on the show? Record a voice note with your name, location, and coaching role, and email it to: podcast@coachdavelove.com

8 snips
Nov 25, 2025 • 51min
The Most Common Constraints I Use
In this engaging discussion, Dave Love, an NBA shooting coach and author, dives into the fascinating world of constraints in basketball training. He explains the various categories of constraints—individual, environmental, and task—and their roles in shooting development. Listeners will learn about practical strategies like the 'tug-of-war' drill for ball protection, as well as how to use lateral jumps to enhance footwork. Dave’s innovative insights offer valuable techniques for coaches looking to refine their training methods and maximize player performance.

9 snips
Nov 18, 2025 • 59min
How I Work On Balance in a Player's Shot
Discover the vital role of balance in a player's shot, emphasizing energy control rather than stillness. Explore four types of balance—static, dynamic, transitional, and reactive—and their specific impact on shooting. Learn about essential habits like athletic posture and engaged core that contribute to stability. Delve into how practicing under constraints can enhance balance and skill transfer. Finally, get insights into how to structure training sessions effectively to improve player performance.

9 snips
Nov 11, 2025 • 58min
The Reality of the "Dip"
Dive into the intriguing debate surrounding the basketball shooting 'dip.' Explore how a longer motion can enhance power but may slow release speed. Discover why young players might benefit from dipping while older, stronger shooters should learn to reduce it. The episode also highlights the importance of variability in shooting practice and tackles common misconceptions about pro shooters. Plus, hear practical advice for aspiring coaches and a listener inquiry about building a basketball coaching business!


