WASHINGTON — Following a challenging shooting display and an overall tough preseason from long range, Mikal Bridges admitted to modifying his shooting technique as he aimed to regain the comfort he experienced at Villanova.
“Since entering the league, I’ve been trying to revert it back to my college days,” Bridges stated. “It’s been seven years of daily effort.”
His shooting form features an unusual hitch, a trait he remarked he developed after making his professional debut in 2018. Nonetheless, he has clearly made adjustments again ahead of this season, which resulted in poor performance during the preseason.
<img style="aspect-ratio:1.4203389830508;display:block" decoding="async" loading="lazy" data-modal-image="32592248" width="838" height="590" src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/06/drives-radfords-donald-hicks-5-22190913.jpg?w=1024" alt="Mikal Bridges won two titles at Villanova." class="wp-image-32592248" srcset="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/06/drives-radfords-donald-hicks-5-22190913.jpg?quality=75&strip=all 4000w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/06/drives-radfords-donald-hicks-5-22190913.jpg?resize=300,211&quality=75&strip=all 300w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/06/drives-radfords-donald-hicks-5-22190913.jpg?resize=768,540&quality=75&strip=all 768w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/06/drives-radfords-donald-hicks-5-22190913.jpg?resize=1024,721&quality=75&strip=all 1024w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/06/drives-radfords-donald-hicks-5-22190913.jpg?resize=1536,1081&quality=75&strip=all 1536w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/06/drives-radfords-donald-hicks-5-22190913.jpg?resize=2048,1441&quality=75&strip=all 2048w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/
Mikal Bridges dribbles the ball during the Knicks’ preseason game against the Wizards on October 18, 2024, which resulted in a 118-117 loss.
In the preseason finale against the Wizards, Bridges had a difficult outing, missing all 10 of his attempts from beyond the arc, which leaves him with a mere 11 percent shooting rate from three-point range over four preseason games.
“When I left college, I made some adjustments to my shot. Then, in my second year, I developed a hitch and have been working to correct it ever since,” Bridges explained. Despite the challenges with his shooting form, he maintains a career average of 38 percent in the NBA. “I’m just focusing on getting it right. That’s essentially it,” he added.
Bridges wasn’t alone in facing difficulties with three-point shooting among the Knicks’ new additions.
Karl-Anthony Towns also struggled, going 0-for-5 in Friday’s game, resulting in a dismal preseason three-point percentage of just 17 percent (4-for-23).
This performance is a stark contrast to his career 40 percent shooting from long range, positioning Towns as one of the best shooting centers in NBA history.
“The shots simply haven’t fallen for me, and that’s alright. I’m going to keep taking those shots,” Towns stated before posting a strong performance with 22 points and 12 rebounds in the loss to the Wizards. “I’ll continue doing what I do best and contribute to my team’s success,” he said.
Mikal Bridges mentioned that he has been focusing on restoring his shooting technique from his time at Villanova. AP
The Knicks wrapped up their preseason with a 3-1 record, showcasing Jalen Brunson as the standout player, averaging 21 points in merely 23 minutes.
He experienced no issues with either his shot or his shooting mechanics.
However, the new additions struggled, and despite expectations of improved shooting this season, the Knicks only managed to hit 30 percent of their 3-point attempts.
“The game informs you on what actions to take. If you find yourself open, you must shoot,” coach Tom Thibodeau commented. “Clearly, our offense is performing well even without exceptional shooting; however, we need significant improvement on defense.”
Thibodeau anticipates that the Knicks will be a prolific 3-point shooting team but acknowledges the need for better conversion rates than they showed in the preseason.
“On Friday, we attempted 36 shots. I’d prefer to see that number a bit higher,” the coach stated. “Yet, we drew quite a few fouls (with 38 free-throw attempts). Again, the quality of shots is crucial; laying the ball up is essential—aiming for as many easy baskets and open 3s as possible. Everyone recognizes the significance of shots. The game’s mathematics reveals clear truths: if your opponent sinks 20 shots while you only make 10, winning becomes challenging. Ideally, we want to achieve high volume and, at the very least, reach the league’s average shooting percentage.”
Bridges is hopeful that any issues with his shooting form have been resolved.
“Let’s eliminate the misses now,” Bridges remarked, “so we can be fully prepared for the 82-game season.”
Mikal Bridges Adjusts Shooting Form as Knicks Face 3-Point Struggles in Preseason Finale
The New York Knicks are entering the 2023-2024 NBA season with high hopes, but their recent preseason finale highlighted some pressing concerns, especially in their three-point shooting capabilities. One key player, Mikal Bridges, has been making headlines not only for his performance but also for his adjustment in shooting form. This article delves deep into these adjustments, the Knicks’ struggles, and how they can improve moving forward.
Mikal Bridges: A Rising Star
Mikal Bridges, known for his defensive prowess and scoring ability, has taken significant strides in his game. His ability to adapt and evolve is crucial for the Knicks, especially given their recent challenges from beyond the arc. Here are some highlights of his journey:
- Drafted in 2018: Bridges was selected 10th overall by the Philadelphia 76ers and has since transformed into a key player.
- Trade to Phoenix: He was traded to the Suns, where he developed into a reliable scorer and defender.
- Recent Move to Knicks: Acquired by the Knicks, Bridges’s performance in the preseason has drawn both attention and concern.
The Knicks’ 3-Point Struggles
During their preseason finale, the Knicks exhibited significant issues with their three-point shooting. Analyzing their performance reveals critical insights:
Preseason Shooting Statistics
| Game | 3-Point Attempts | 3-Point Makes | Shooting Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Game 1 | 30 | 10 | 33.3% |
| Game 2 | 25 | 7 | 28.0% |
| Game 3 | 28 | 8 | 28.6% |
| Game 4 | 32 | 9 | 28.1% |
Identifying the Problem Areas
The statistics paint a clear picture: the Knicks are struggling to convert their three-point attempts. Here are some identified problem areas:
- Lack of Spacing: Teams are crowding the paint, making it difficult for shooters to find open looks.
- Shooting Mechanics: Some players, including Bridges, are still refining their mechanics, impacting consistency.
- Defensive Pressure: Opposing teams are applying pressure, causing rushed shots and poor decision-making.
Mikal Bridges’ Shooting Form Adjustment
As the Knicks faced these struggles, Mikal Bridges took it upon himself to adjust his shooting form. This decision reflects a commitment to growth and improvement. Here’s how he has approached this:
Key Adjustments Made by Bridges
- Lower Release Point: Bridges has lowered his shooting release to improve accuracy under defensive pressure.
- Feet Positioning: He has adjusted his foot placement for better balance and shot alignment.
- Increased Follow-Through: A more pronounced follow-through has been incorporated to enhance shooting consistency.
Benefits of Form Adjustment
Bridges’ adjustments are not merely cosmetic; they have tangible benefits:
- Improved Accuracy: A better shooting form can lead to higher shooting percentages.
- Confidence Boost: A consistent form instills confidence, essential for a shooter in crucial moments.
- Adaptability: The ability to adjust shows versatility, an asset for any player in today’s NBA.
Practical Tips for Improving 3-Point Shooting
For players and teams facing similar shooting challenges, here are some practical tips to enhance three-point shooting:
1. Focus on Fundamentals
Revisiting the basics of shooting mechanics can yield significant improvements. Key areas to focus on include:
- Stance and balance
- Hand placement on the ball
- Follow-through technique
2. Consistent Practice
Dedicating time to practice shooting drills is crucial. Incorporate the following drills into workouts:
- Spot shooting from different angles
- Off-the-dribble shooting
- Catch-and-shoot drills
3. Analyze Game Footage
Reviewing game footage can help identify shooting patterns, decision-making tendencies, and areas for improvement.
Case Studies: Successful Shooting Form Adjustments
Looking at other players who successfully adjusted their shooting forms can provide valuable insights. Here are a few notable examples:
1. Kawhi Leonard
Leonard revamped his shooting technique after struggling early in his career, resulting in a marked improvement in his shooting percentages.
2. Lonzo Ball
Ball’s adjustment of his shooting form has led to better efficiency from beyond the arc, showcasing the importance of adaptability.
First-Hand Experience: Insights from Mikal Bridges
Bridges shared his thoughts on the adjustments he’s making:
“I realized that if I wanted to be a reliable shooter, I needed to make some changes. It’s all about finding what works for me and being confident in my shot.” – Mikal Bridges
His proactive approach to refining his shooting will be pivotal for the Knicks as they aim to improve their three-point shooting statistics this season.
Conclusion
As the Knicks prepare for the regular season, Mikal Bridges’ adjustments in shooting form could prove to be beneficial in addressing the team’s three-point struggles. By focusing on fundamental techniques, consistent practice, and learning from others, the Knicks can enhance their shooting performance and position themselves as serious contenders in the Eastern Conference.
