Cody Williams: Back to Basics, Back to Form
In the world of professional basketball, sometimes it's the simplest adjustments that can make the biggest difference. And that's exactly what Cody Williams is doing as he works to get his game back on track.
Sarah Todd, our NBA and Utah Jazz expert at Deseret News, brings us this insightful story. It all started with a pre-game workout session between Williams and assistant coach Chad Forcier, which triggered memories of high school shooting drills for Sarah.
Williams was practicing a technique known as "leg rolls." This method, designed to promote a tight elbow and a powerful wrist, involves rolling the ball up the leg to achieve the perfect wrist position. It's a subtle yet effective way to improve shooting form.
But here's where it gets controversial... Williams, who has been struggling with his 3-point shooting (a meager 15.4% this season), is now incorporating leg rolls into his pregame routine. He believes that by going back to the fundamentals, he can reset and improve his performance.
And this is the part most people miss... Williams isn't just focusing on his shot. He's also prioritizing aspects of the game that are within his control, like defense and off-ball movement. He's a smart player, and he knows that relying solely on his shooting might not be the best strategy right now.
Jazz coach Will Hardy agrees, emphasizing the importance of Williams' defense and his ability to apply pressure offensively through driving and cutting. Hardy believes that Williams' improvement as a cutter is a key factor in his overall game, and he wants Williams to continue focusing on these strengths while working hard to improve his shooting.
So, is Cody Williams on the right track? Should players focus on their strengths and work on their weaknesses, or is there a balance to be found? What do you think? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
