NBA 2K21 shooting scheme focuses more on shooting styles, emphasizing how individual players actually play the ball. Different types increase the shot percentage of a player depending on how tricky their shooting method is. Read below for tips on how to master this near-arcane device.

How to fire
The developers make you work for your buckets in this year's game update. Instead of the green meter in previous games, you now need to time your shots and release the Pro Stick or fire button at various times, depending on where you're in court. Learn the court, learn how to shoot from various positions in the arena, and be mindful that you never shoot the same twice.

Switch shot meter off
Not interested in the above? Adding options and turning off the new shot meter allows you to concentrate more on your player's leap. This offers a more natural approach to shooting and removes the distraction of concentrating on the new meter – often too small to see properly. If you plan to turn off the meter, make sure you drop the Pro Stick (or shot button) just before reaching your jump peak for the best timing.

Learn hot zones
How to get NBA 2K21 hot zone? To balance the emphasis on the fiddlier and trickier shot meter, developers at 2K wanted to buff Hot Zones a lot. What's it for you? Well, NBA 2K21 Hot Zones will give your player a better boost. Practice with your favorite players to see where their NBA 2K21 hot zones are to make their shots more accurate. You can also learn these in practice mode.

Damns are life
Another main ingredient for success is recognizing your player's badges and choosing the right badges when leveling your MyPlayer. At first, heading to court in The Neighborhood is overwhelming, particularly when the VC (Virtual Currency) wall blocks your stats. Through playing in MyCareer and The Neighborhood, you acquire points in various areas like shooting and playing.

If you fill one of these gauges, you can select a new badge to give your player an ability boost. If your shot timing is off, badges like Pro Touch offer forgiveness, and the Giant Slayer Badge makes you invincible against bigger defenders. Decide what kind of player you want and grab the badges you need to do your best.

Take good photos
Never settle for bad shots, of course. The shot clock gives you 24 seconds, so use it completely. When you take a bad shot – i.e. highly contested, rushed, coerced, etc. – it's practically a free defensive gift and let's get your opponent off the hook. Often aim to get good basket looks where the blocker isn't close enough to challenge the shot.

Defend courageously
If you know that an opponent has a very good offensive athlete in their hands, do all you can to remain on them and deny them the space they need to shoot. Hold O/B to stand your ground and make it harder for enemy players to get the layup off you.

Practice in practice
We're all about practice! Practice mode is a great way to practice on new shots, work out your shot's kinks, find the sweet spot where to release the ball, etc. A strong general rule is to aim at the jump peak. You may also want to toggle on shot feedback (game settings > presentation) to get a general understanding of what is a decent shot, great shot, bad shot, etc.

That's all for shooting's NBA 2K21 beginner's guide. This should get you started in the game, and the rest is about how well you suit the gameplay.