Basketball values and prioritizes shooting ability at all levels of the game. As evaluators, we constantly identify and research the most reliable shooters in the sport, especially with future productivity in mind.
Shooting has become an art form in the modern game, and who better than Stephen Curry's shooting coach Brandon Payne to weigh in on what it takes to excel as a shooter?
“Be a fluid mover who is in great shape. Shooters need to be the most prepared players on the court because of the movement required to get open,” Payne said. “Do you work in pressure situations in your workouts against a clock and a score? There are a lot of players who shoot extremely well in practice but struggle to translate that success into games. Your work habits as a shooter and your willingness to work at an uncomfortable pace with excellent, consistent mechanics and preparation ultimately make you the playmaker shooter you are. Can you stretch the court and create gravity to create opportunities for your teammates?
“Above all, you must feel comfortable and confident as a shooter in all situations. Unwavering confidence can help a shooter overcome many physical and mechanical problems. Mentally strong shooters are the best shooters in the world.”
Today, we highlight a group of great shooters who exemplify Payne's plan heading into what should be productive senior seasons. With more dedication and refinement, each player on this list could project as an impact player both this season and in college basketball due to their transferable ability.
We look at a variety of categories, including 3-pointers made, shooting percentage, shot quality, and shot volume. The eye test assesses shooting mechanics, shot preparation, and movement before the shot. Based on data, live evaluations, and video, these are currently the best shooters, shooters, and performers in the class of 2025 that we identified.
