Introduction
In basketball, a floater is a type of shot where the shooter uses a high-arcing trajectory to shoot the ball over a defender and into the basket. It is a common move used by guards and small forwards to score over taller defenders. Let’s dive deeper into the floater definition, its mechanics, examples, and how to execute it effectively.
What is a Floater?
A floater is a finesse shot that involves a soft touch and high release point. It’s typically used when driving towards the basket and facing taller defenders who can block a traditional layup. By launching the ball with a high arc, the shooter can avoid the defender’s reach and still score.
Mechanics of a Floater
- Start by driving towards the basket at a controlled pace
- Jump off one foot to create separation from the defender
- Release the ball with a high arc while reaching the peak of the jump
- Use your wrist to add backspin for a soft landing on the rim
Examples of Floater in Action
One of the most famous practitioners of the floater is Tony Parker, former NBA player. Parker perfected the art of the floater during his career with the San Antonio Spurs, using it to score over bigger defenders consistently.
Case Studies
Several NBA players have added the floater to their scoring repertoire with great success. For example, Stephen Curry, the Golden State Warriors’ star point guard, has perfected his floater in traffic, leading to many highlight-reel plays.
Statistics
According to NBA tracking data, floaters have become more popular in recent years, with players like Damian Lillard and Kyrie Irving utilizing them to score in the paint. Floaters are effective due to their unpredictability and ability to score over taller defenders.
