Shot Selection: Game Charting and Effective FG%

During a 4-on-4 game, each player has an observer who marks on a court diagram where they shoot from, whether the shot was contested and whether it went in. From the data, students calculate effective field goal percentage and discuss which shots to take and which to avoid.

How to play

1. Present the diagram and the formula: effective FG% = (made field goals + 0.5 x made threes) / field goal attempts; circle open shots and mark contested ones with an X (4 min).
2. First 4-on-4 game of 10 minutes on two baskets: half the class plays and each observer follows one specific player and marks every shot (10 min).
3. Each player-observer pair calculates overall effective FG%, the percentage on open shots and on contested shots (6 min).
4. Switch roles and play a second game with a data-based rule: you can only take a contested shot with less than 5 seconds left in the possession (8 min).
5. Debrief: the class compares percentages and agrees on three criteria for good shot selection (2 min).

Rules

• Each observer follows only their player and gives no instructions during play.
• A shot counts as contested if a defender has a hand up within an arm's length.
• Fouls are self-called and the opponent's word is respected.
• Observers stand off the court, more than 1 m (3 ft) from the line.

Variations

Adaptations

• Difficulty with math: use a calculator or the template with formulas already set up.
• Injury or limited mobility: always serves as an observer and presents the group's conclusions.
• Autism: gets the same player to observe in both games and a diagram with large symbols.

Learning goals

• Record and calculate effective field goal percentage.
• Tell a good shot from a bad shot based on defense and distance.
• Adjust shot selection based on data analysis.

Equipment for a class of 25

• basketballs: 4
• pinnies: 16
• shot charts: 16

Teacher tip

Explain why a three is worth an extra half in the formula: it is the best way for them to understand the stat. Keep the charts to compare in a later lesson.

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