Quiet Eye (QE) is a term used in sports psychology to describe the cognitive process and gaze behavior that occurs right before an athlete executes a skill, such as shooting a basketball. The concept was first introduced by Dr. Joan Vickers, a cognitive psychologist, and has since been applied to various sports, including basketball.
In basketball, the quiet eye refers to the final fixation of a player's gaze on a specific target (usually the rim or the backboard) before initiating the shooting motion. This focused visual attention is believed to improve shooting accuracy and overall performance. The quiet eye duration (QED) typically lasts between 100 ms to 600 ms, with longer durations associated with better performance.
To enhance quiet eye in basketball shooting, consider incorporating the following drills into your training routine:
Rim fixation drill: In this drill, the player stands near the basket and practices focusing their gaze on the rim for at least 2-3 seconds before shooting. Gradually increase the distance from the basket, ensuring that the gaze remains fixed on the rim before each shot.
Target practice: Using a target such as a small piece of tape or a sticker, place it on different areas of the backboard or rim. Have the player focus on hitting the target with their shot, maintaining a steady gaze on the target before initiating the shooting motion.
Distraction training: Introduce various distractions, such as noise or other visual stimuli, while the player is shooting. The goal is to train the player to maintain a steady, focused gaze on the target (rim or backboard) despite the distractions.
Video analysis: Record the player's shooting sessions and analyze their gaze behavior. Look for patterns and areas for improvement. For example, if the player consistently looks away from the target right before shooting, work on maintaining a steady gaze on the target throughout the entire shooting motion.
Gaze cuing: Use verbal cues or visual cues (e.g., a coach pointing at the rim) to direct the player's attention towards the target before they initiate the shooting motion.
Pressure situations: Simulate pressure situations, such as shooting free throws with a game on the line or taking a game-winning shot. This will help the player develop the ability to maintain a quiet eye under stressful conditions.
Here are some key aspects a coach can look for when analyzing a player's shooting technique, including the quiet eye, without needing advanced technology:
Posture and balance: Observe the player's body alignment and balance during the shooting motion. Check if they are leaning too far forward or backward, or if their feet are too close or too far apart. Proper balance and posture are essential for consistent shooting.
Shooting mechanics: Examine the player's shooting form, including the position of the shooting elbow, the angle of the shooting arm, and the release point. Ensure the shooting motion is smooth and fluid, without any unnecessary movements or hitches.
Gaze behavior: Pay attention to where the player is looking before and during the shot. The quiet eye is all about maintaining a steady gaze on the target (rim or backboard). Look for any signs of the player's gaze shifting away from the target or any excessive head movement.
Follow-through and wrist action: Observe the player's follow-through after the release. The shooting hand should be relaxed and pointing towards the target, while the wrist should have a smooth snapping motion.
Footwork and rhythm: Analyze the player's footwork before shooting, including how they catch the ball, set their feet, and step into the shot. A consistent rhythm and proper footwork can contribute to improved shooting accuracy.
Confidence and composure: Notice the player's demeanor and body language during the shooting process. Confidence and composure can positively impact shooting performance.
To conduct a simple video analysis, follow these steps:
Record the player's shooting sessions using a smartphone or tablet. Capture the video from different angles, such as from the side, behind, and in front of the shooter.
Review the recorded footage with the player, discussing the aspects mentioned above. Pause and rewind the video as needed to highlight specific points.
Provide feedback and suggestions for improvement. Identify areas where the player can improve their shooting technique or quiet eye and suggest drills or exercises to address these issues.
Track the player's progress over time by conducting regular video analysis sessions. This will help the player and the coach see the improvements made and identify any new areas that may need attention.