For any passionate basketball player, there is no sound as satisfying as the ball’s swishing sound when it passes through the net.
But of course, you know for sure that hoops aren’t just designed for that reason alone. Have you ever wondered why basketball hoops have nets?
The main reason why basketball hoops have nets is to easily see whether a shot was made or not. The net also makes it easy to retrieve the ball as it will go directly down. But there are also other small benefits to having a net when playing.
Why do Basketball Hoops Have Nets?
You can play basketball even if the hoop doesn’t have a net attached. So, is the net simply there for an aesthetic reason? Nope, there are many more important reasons why it’s designed that way.
1. It makes the hoop comfortably and easily visible
Imagine attempting a Stephen Curry-like three-point shot from the backcourt. Do you think it’s easier to estimate the ball accurately going into a netless hoop or one with it? You’ll probably conclude it’s the latter.
So, the net isn’t there to add an interesting visual appeal. Rather, it’s designed to make the hoop comfortably and easily visible, especially when attempting long-range field goals.
In addition, as a successful shot produces a nice swish audibly and visually, it’s easier for the viewers to determine whether the shot was successful or not. If the game were held in a gymnasium with no automated scoring system, officials wouldn’t have to second-guess whether the player had scored points, especially during the most intense moments.
2. Facilitates easy ball retrieval
From a Physics viewpoint, a net around the rim enables players to use their time and energy more efficiently. What does this mean?
Without a net, a ball going through the hoop will wander in just about any direction at a surprising speed. Whereas if it’s the other way around, the net and the friction it creates with the ball will guide and control its movement. As a result, you can easily anticipate and follow its downward trajectory.
That being said, this hoop design better facilitates easy ball retrieval. This is ideal, especially because the game of basketball is a fast-paced one. With limited time to score points, you can’t waste any seconds chasing after a ball that has completely lost its supposed direction!
3. The swish is just music
Audibly and visually, a swish is so satisfying to witness. Come on, it’s not just for the spectators’ pleasure, it’s for the accurate, rimless shooter himself!
Why Are There a Lot of Hoops Without Nets?
We do note that we’ve seen a lot of hoops without nets. You’ve probably seen one too, and it’s right in your backyard.
Well, it’s pretty self-explanatory why it’s designed that way if basketball is your hobby, so you settled for a decent makeshift half-court at the comfort of your home. After all, who doesn’t want to make physical activities extra fun and thrilling?
If you happen to traipse around New York City, you’ll probably notice a lot of netless hoops on public basketball courts. The reason behind this is simply the lack of maintenance plans. The hoops weren’t originally designed as netless; rather, they did have nets when they were installed.
They’re prone to vandalism and the normal wear and tear that comes with frequent usage over time. Perhaps, the maintenance of these public basketball courts is not a priority because there has been a lack of solid plans to replace them when they’re torn or worn out immediately.
Going many miles farther away from the USA, enter the Philippines. Maybe it’s no news to you, but the Filipinos are so obsessed with basketball that National Geographic has produced a documentary called “Pinoy Hoops.”
This documentary showcases how every corner of the Philippines has at least a half-court installed. Basketball is a way of life for many Filipinos, from cities to towns to the farthest islands and mountains. And a more economical, netless hoop makes sense if you want to build a court in a few hours and immediately enjoy the sport with your friends.
Different Types of Basketball Nets and Their Strengths and Weaknesses
Wondering what basketball nets are usually made of? Here are some of them.
- Nylon
It’s a commonly used material for basketball nets. That’s because it’s more affordably priced than other options around. Also, it’s friendly on the skin and the ball’s surface. Plus, it’s less likely to create annoying tangles.
Con: Not so durable.
- Chain Nets
Usually, chain nets are made of steel. And so, these heavy-duty nets rightly belong to outdoor hard courts. They can endure harsh weather conditions and other environmental factors contributing to any net’s degradation.
In addition, they’re easy to attach to rims. So, installing or replacing won’t take a lot of time.
Con: Harsh on the ball and may cause injuries if not properly maintained
- Polyester
No other net material produces the most satisfying swish sound. Plus, they’re pretty durable as compared to nylon.
Con: Not as durable as chain nets
Does a Basketball Net Affect Your Shot?
Yes, it does. As mentioned, it helps you to focus on your aim better. Whether attempting a field goal within the two-point area or from a longer range, a basketball net helps you see the hoop more clearly and comfortably.
Because of that, you can expect more accurate shots, along with constant practice.
Interestingly, one study that delved into the effect of the basketball net on free throw accuracy revealed that the subjects did field goals with 57.71% accuracy without the net and 54.86% accuracy with the net installed. This suggests that attempting free throw shots without the net is a bit more accurate than with the net. However, more studies need to be conducted to prove this point.
Which is Worse, Double Rim, or No Net?
Double rims don’t hold a very positive reputation regarding shot accuracy. But if you wish to push yourself to the next level, practice shooting through double rims. It won’t only test your patience; it will test your ability as well.
You might be surprised—even layups can be incredibly difficult. But with constant practice, you can develop good muscle memory for perfectly arc shots. And over time, double rims are the perfect challenge if you want to whip up a smoother jump shot.
On the other hand, shooting through netless hoops is pretty challenging if you’re shooting long range. A net improves the hoop’s visibility. But netless hoops don’t pose many difficulties if we talk about close-range shots.
The verdict? Double rims are worse than no net hoops. But if you look on the brighter side, they help you bring your A-game to a new level.
Tips to Shoot Better With or Without a Net
Whether you focus on improving your shot accuracy, with or without a net, doesn’t matter. Perhaps you’re as accurate as Steph Curry; you wouldn’t mind whatever that hoop is. So how can you improve your shot accuracy?
- Keep your eyes straight on the prize.
It’s easy to tell rookies apart from pro players. Rookies tend to nail their eyes on the ball. On the other hand, pro players focus on the hoop when attempting a field goal.
- Position yourself properly to establish a good stance and balance.
Keep your feet around shoulder-width apart. Slightly bend your knees. If attempting a more open shot, put your shooting foot forward while the other is positioned as support behind.
- Know the correct grip
Spread your fingers apart to provide proper support to the ball on your finger pads. Rather than gripping tightly, there should be enough space between the ball and your palm.
- Let the shot go in buttery smooth
The whole body should coordinate gracefully when you attempt a shot. This needs consistent practice.
Proper positioning includes your elbow directly under the ball. Your shooting hand should trace an imaginary line leading towards the rim.
Don’t allow the ball to go behind your head. It should stay in front of you. Your elbow and wrist should be properly coordinated when you release the shot.
- Correct failed and inaccurate shots.
Don’t be satisfied just because the ball went it. Focus on how the ball went through the hoop. Did it bounce off the backboard and travel around the rim before finally going in?
This indicates that you need to improve your shot accuracy. How about we try watching Klay Thompson and Steph Curry nail their rimless impossible shots?
Okay, maybe not on that level yet, but don’t give up until you achieve multiple rimless shots in a row.
- Start close range, then move farther.
Of course, try the easiest shot drills before you attempt shots from the backcourt. Layups are one of the simplest. Start with that.
Then gradually move a little farther every time. Over time, you can improve your shot range.
Final Thoughts
Basketball hoops have nets because these come in handy in making the shots more visible, and they facilitate more efficient ball retrieval.
But with or without nets, you can shoot with accuracy if you focus on consistently enhancing your shooting skills.
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