Basic Definition
A turnaround shot is an offensive basketball move where the player starts with their back to the basket. The player then jumps up while rotating their body so they can see the basket and shoot the ball. The shot happens while the player is in the air, which makes it challenging because they have to time their rotation and release correctly.
When Players Use It
Players typically use turnaround shots when they are being defended very closely and cannot easily drive to the basket or pass to a teammate. The shot is useful because it allows a player to create space between themselves and the defender. It's also valuable in low-post situations when a player has their back to the basket and wants to shoot over a defender who is right behind them.
Why It's Difficult
Turnaround shots are hard to make because the player cannot see the basket while they are setting up the shot. They must rely on muscle memory and feel to know where the basket is located. Additionally, the player has to maintain their balance while jumping and rotating at the same time, which requires significant skill and practice.
Shooting Technique
To perform a turnaround shot, a player should catch the ball with their back to the basket, bend their knees, and explode upward. As they rise, they rotate their hips and shoulders to face the basket while extending their shooting arm. The key is to keep the ball close to the body and follow through with a consistent shooting motion, even though the body is rotating during the jump.
Similar Shots
A fadeaway is very similar to a turnaround shot, but in a fadeaway the player is already facing the basket and shoots while jumping backward. Both shots create space from defenders and are considered advanced basketball skills. Players may also use step-back shots, which involve stepping backward while still facing the basket before shooting. 
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