Key Takeaways

• Brunson has added more catch-and-shoot 3-pointers to his game
• This move makes him a bigger scoring threat
• Defenses must stay out on him, creating space
• His team’s offense looks more dynamic and balanced
• Fans can expect even more exciting plays next season

Jalen Brunson has sharpened his shooting. He now sinks more catch-and-shoot 3-pointers than before. Instead of always driving to the basket, he stands ready behind the arc. When his teammate swings the ball, he fires without hesitation. This new skill makes him more dangerous. Consequently, opponents can’t key in on just one move. Defenders must respect his jumper. In turn, the whole offense opens up.

Why Catch-and-Shoot 3-Pointers Are a Game Changer

Catch-and-shoot 3-pointers can change a game in seconds. First, they come when the shooter grabs a quick pass and shoots in one motion. This speed prevents defenders from closing out. As a result, the shot has a higher chance of going in. Moreover, adding this weapon to Brunson’s arsenal forces teams to guard him tightly on the perimeter. Otherwise, he will knock down open looks. This pressure shifts defensive focus and creates driving lanes for his teammates. In addition, it boosts the team’s floor spacing. When defenses spread out to cover him, paint access improves. Thus, both scoring and passing options grow.

How Brunson Mastered Catch-and-Shoot 3-Pointers

Brunson did not wake up one day and start drilling catch-and-shoot 3-pointers. He built this skill with hard work. Every morning, he ran through spot-up drills with the shooting coach. They focused on foot placement, balance, and quick release. Next, he added game-speed reps. Teammates would swing the ball and feed him passes under defensive pressure. This practice forced him to make reads in a split second. He also studied film of elite shooters. By watching great catch-and-shoot players, he learned how to find space and read the defense. Finally, he tracked his makes and misses in a notebook. This log showed him patterns in form and decision-making. Putting it all together, he polished his jumper until it became reliable.

The Impact on the Team’s Offense

Now that Brunson drills more catch-and-shoot 3-pointers, his team’s attack looks different. Opponents can no longer sag off him at the perimeter. They must close out or risk an open three. This shift benefits his driving game. When defenders step up, he can blow by them or dish to a cutter. On the other hand, if a big stays home to guard the paint, he will pull up from deep. Moreover, the threat of catch-and-shoot 3-pointers forces teams to switch more often. These switches can create mismatches. Brunson can exploit smaller guards in the post or attack slower bigs on the dribble. In this way, his added shooting transforms the whole offense. It balances pick-and-roll sets, off-ball movement, and transition chances.

Why Fans Should Get Excited

Fans love watching players evolve. Brunson’s new focus on catch-and-shoot 3-pointers sets the stage for high-octane games. Expect more highlight reels of him draining deep shots. Also, playoff defenses will have a harder time locking him down. They can’t cheat off him or crowd the paint. Plus, the extra scoring punch makes every possession feel urgent. On nights when he can’t drive, he will spot up. That versatility frustrates defenders and excites fans. In short, his growth in this area adds another layer of fun.

Looking Ahead: What to Expect

This upcoming season, Brunson’s catch-and-shoot 3-pointers will remain a priority. He will likely appear in more off-ball actions, like flare screens and handoffs. Those plays will free him for open looks. Coaches will design sets to get him the ball beyond the arc. Furthermore, he may share court time with other shooters to keep defenses honest. As a result, his assist numbers might climb too. After all, a defender closing out on him opens teammates at the rim. Finally, if he continues this pattern, he could rank among the league leaders in catch-and-shoot efficiency. That status would cement his role as a two-way threat.

FAQs

What are catch-and-shoot 3-pointers?

Catch-and-shoot 3-pointers happen when a player catches a pass and shoots immediately. The quick release leaves defenders little time to react. It demands precise footwork and timing.

How does shooting catch-and-shoot 3-pointers help Brunson’s team?

By threatening from deep, Brunson keeps defenders honest. They cannot sag off him or clog the paint. This spacing frees up passing lanes and driving opportunities for his teammates.

Can other players copy Brunson’s catch-and-shoot style?

Yes. Any player can add catch-and-shoot 3-pointers through focused drills and film study. It takes consistent practice of footwork, shot mechanics, and decision-making under pressure.

How can young players practice catch-and-shoot 3-pointers?

Start with form shooting close to the basket. Then move out to the 3-point line. Use a partner to pass you the ball or a rebounding machine. Work on a quick, balanced catch and release. Track your makes to see progress. Source: https://www.nydailynews.com/2025/11/12/knicks-mike-brown-stephen-curry-jalen-brunson/