Researchers at the University of Kansas are combining sports science and basketball training in an ambitious effort to break a world record for most consecutive three-point shots made.
The project is being conducted at the university’s Jayhawk Athletic Performance Laboratory in Lawrence, Kansas, United States, where scientists have discovered that the preparatory phase of a shot plays a crucial role in long-range shooting accuracy.
According to the research team led by biomechanist Dimitrije Cabarkapa, successful three-point shooters show greater flexion in the hips, knees, and ankles before releasing the ball. This movement lowers the player’s center of mass and provides improved balance and power during the shot.
The study used markerless motion capture technology to analyze the mechanics of basketball players as they attempted three-point shots. The system allowed researchers to measure factors such as elbow alignment, stance width, and body angles during the shot’s preparation phase.
Applying these findings, former college basketball player and physicist Cornell Jenkins is working with the research team to attempt a new record recognized by Guinness World Records. Jenkins regularly trains using the lab’s technology to monitor and refine his shooting mechanics.
Researchers say the project demonstrates how biomechanics and real-time performance analysis can help athletes optimize their technique and push the limits of human performance in basketball.
