Monday, January 17, 2011

Isaiah Thomas's Free Throw Percentage

After going 8-8 from the line in his last game, Isaiah has really shown just how hard work and the willingness to tweak traditions can turn a player's game up a notch. I first noticed his new free throw motion in the home game against San Fransisco, but I believe he also used it during the Texas A&M game. I was too busy stressing about other parts of our game to really appreciate the 16-16 effort our team had from the free throw line.

Here are a few stats.

Isaiah is currently shooting 80.5% since changing his form (not including A&M). 33/41

Isaiah is shooting 83.7% including the A&M game. 41/49

Before changing his motion, Isaiah was shooting 61.7% (not including A&M). 29/47

Including A&M he was shooting 67.3%. 37/55

His percentage jumped up nearly 15% by adding a four second count after his dribbles instead of shooting straight off the dribble. Those extra few seconds allow him to concentrate on the shot and the significance is easily seen.

So to Isaiah, I say, thank you for making me a believer again. I criticized your free throw shooting early in the year and you have turned it around and are shooting great from the line. Keep it up.

2 comments: