Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

My project is seeing which basketball form is most reliable.
I just have a few questions about the topics.

What are important fundamentals to keep in mind while taking a free-throw?
-Why/and how do they help?

Does shooting form change as you grow physically and why?

How important is it to use the supporting hand and why?
-How about bending your knees?

Is it important to get a lot of arch in a shot and why?

Is putting spin on the ball helpful and why?
-Which way should you put spin on the ball?

Thank you for any replies.

Hello, what an interesting topic!

First off, some fundamentals to remember are B-E-E-F . Balance, Eyes, Elbow, Followthrough.. Each one of these increases the chances of the ball going in.
Balance - makes the shooter's aim more accurate
Elbow - keeps the ball balanced and placed correctly before the shot
Eyes - makes the shooter focus and concentrate on their target
Followthrough - makes the ball's motion smooth and gives it spin.

Shooting form does change as one gets older, because young kids tend to not know correct form. Also, a shooter starts to use their legs more in their shot as they get older (more muscle in their legs) and so their form does change dramatically.

The suuporting hand is very important as it is the "guide hand" for the shot. It keeps the ball centered and helps you shoot the ball straight. Without it, the ball would fly everywhere.
Bending your knees is extremely important also, because most of a shooter's power comes from their legs. Otherwise, one must do all the work with their arms and the shot would be messed up.

Putting spin on the ball is what many professional players do. It seems to be helpful because it helps the shot be more accurate, and it is fairly impossible to shoot a ball without spin. Back spin is the best spin to have on a shot.

Hope that helps!