Shooting in NBA 2K25 can be a challenge for many players, and you may find yourself struggling to maintain a consistent shooting percentage. In this guide below we will give you a detailed look at how to shoot better in NBA 2K25. We’ll cover key topics like rhythm shooting, shot timing visual cues, the best settings, and secret tips to help you dominate the court.

1. Why Shooting Feels Hard in NBA 2K25

Contrary to popular belief, shooting in NBA 2K25 is not significantly harder than in NBA 2K24. The green window—the period during which a perfectly timed shot will go in—remains nearly the same. However, NBA 2K25 introduces some randomness (RNG shooting) that can make it feel like you’re missing perfectly timed shots. This system is designed to lower the top players' shooting percentages, but with the right strategy, you can still dominate.

2. Where to Practice Your Jump Shot

Most players practice their jump shots in MyCourt. While this might seem like a good idea, it's not the best place to train because MyCourt lacks the online latency you'll experience in real games. Instead, it would help if you practiced in online-enabled courts like:

- Gatorade Courts 
- Garage Courts 
- Park Courts

These locations simulate actual game conditions, giving you a more accurate feel for how your shot will perform in a live match.

3. Optimize Your Build with Jump Shot Boosts

If you're serious about improving your shooting, investing in jump shot boosts is essential. Jump shot boosts provide a noticeable improvement in your shot consistency, and Gatorade boosts give you more stamina, allowing for better shooting late in games. While these boosts cost VC, they are worth the investment if you aim for high-level play.

4. Unlock and Utilize Hot Zones

Hot zones are areas of the court where your player has a higher chance of making a shot. To unlock these, play in specific areas like The Dunes or The Temple and maintain a high shooting percentage (50-60%) over a few games. Hot zones can significantly boost your shooting percentage, and it’s worth investing time to unlock them across the court. Once you unlock red hot zones, you can further boost your performance by gaining purple zones, which provide even more of a shooting advantage.

5. Adjust Your Controller Settings for Success

To maximize your shooting potential, you need to fine-tune your controller settings. Here’s how:

- Shot Timing Profile: Use High Risk, High Reward for the largest green window, which gives you the best chance to hit perfect shots. This setting eliminates the ability to make white shots (slightly off-timed), but the payoff is greater accuracy for well-timed releases. 
- Shot Timing Visual Cues: Choose Push if your player is 6’5 or taller, or Release for players under 6’4. This ensures your timing matches your player's shooting speed, giving you the best chance to succeed. 
- Shot Meter Visibility: Turn off the shot meter to increase your green window size. With the meter off, you can rely more on visual cues and timing for better shot accuracy.

6. Master Rhythm Shooting for a Bigger Green Window

Rhythm shooting is a new feature in NBA 2K25 that allows players to use the right stick for shooting. This method gives you a larger green window than traditional button shooting. Here’s how it works:

- Pull down on the right stick and flick it up at the right moment (based on the visual cue you've set) to release the shot. 
- You’ll have to master two timings: push timing (when the ball leaves your hand) and tempo timing (the speed between pulling down and flicking up).

While rhythm shooting takes practice, the rewards are worth it. You’ll see a noticeable improvement in your green window, leading to more successful shots.

7. Start Games with Positive Takeover

One of the most important strategies in NBA 2K25 is starting with positive takeover. Instead of launching a three-pointer right at the start of the game, aim for easier shots like layups or assists. Building up your takeover early can dramatically increase your shooting percentage as the game progresses. A positive takeover makes your green window larger and increases your chances of success.

8. Vary Your Shot Selection

To shoot more consistently, avoid taking the same type of shot repeatedly. Mix it up:

- Use mid-range shots to build rhythm before taking deep threes. 
- Take smart shots based on positioning and stamina. 
- Avoid taking difficult shots like fadeaways early in the game.

By diversifying your shot selection, you’ll keep defenders guessing and maximize your opportunities.

9. Perfect Your Visual Cues

Visual cues are essential in NBA 2K25. Focus on watching your player's movements rather than relying on muscle memory. Factors like stamina, shot type, and timing all affect the success of your shot. Recognizing these cues will help you time your shots better and hit more greens.

10. Maximize Release Speed

Always set your release speed to the maximum. A faster release reduces the time defenders have to contest your shot, giving you a higher chance of making the basket. Coupling this with the right visual cue ensures that you can shoot more effectively in various in-game scenarios.

Related: 10 Reasons Why You Can't Shoot in NBA 2K25