Ep 6. Signature Moves: The Feel

Signature Moves: The Feel

Episode 6 of season 1 of Basketball: A Love Story explores the signature moves that players use to bamboozle defenders and create space on the court. The episode is all about the 'feel' of basketball, and how the game's best players have an innate sense of how to get their shots off.

The episode opens with a discussion of one of the most iconic signature moves in basketball: the skyhook. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar popularized this move in the 1970s and 80s, and it remains one of the most effective shots in the game today. The episode then delves into the footwork involved in executing the skyhook, and the precision required to get it just right.

From there, the episode moves on to other signature moves, such as Michael Jordan's fadeaway jumper, Allen Iverson's crossover dribble, and Tim Duncan's bank shot. Throughout the episode, NBA players, coaches, and analysts weigh in on what makes these moves so effective, and why they've become so iconic.

The episode also looks at the history of these moves, and how they've evolved over time. For example, the crossover dribble has been around for decades, but players like Iverson and Jamal Crawford have added their own flare to the move, making it even more deadly.

As the episode progresses, it becomes clear that the 'feel' of a basketball game is something that can't be taught. Yes, players can practice their footwork, study game film, and work on their shot mechanics, but at the end of the day, the best players have a sixth sense for the game. They know when to drive, when to pass, and when to shoot. They know how to fake out defenders and create space. They have a feel for the game that can only be described as instinctual.

The episode also explores the psychological aspect of signature moves. For some players, these moves are a way of expressing themselves on the court. For others, they're a source of confidence and empowerment. The episode looks at how different players approach their signature moves, and how those moves have come to define their careers.

Overall, Signature Moves: The Feel is a fascinating exploration of what makes basketball such a unique and exciting sport. By examining the signature moves of some of the game's greatest players, the episode shows how basketball is as much an art as it is a science. Whether you're a diehard fan or a casual viewer, this episode is sure to deepen your appreciation for the game and the players that make it so great.