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Sport Science: Derrick Williams’ 3-point shooting

Derrick Williams

Good form. Good backspin. Photo by Jayne Kamin-Oncea-US PRESSWIRE

I love this geeky science stuff, so ESPN’s breakdown of Derrick Williams’ shooting is must-watch video.

Did you know Williams imparts 2.2 revolutions of backspin per second — considered in the ideal range — on his 3-point shot?

Williams made 56.8 percent of his 3-pointers with the Arizona Wildcats last season (42 of 74), although sadly for UA, he missed his final attempt in the closing seconds against UConn in the West Regional final.

Although he mostly played in the post for Arizona, he has said he considers himself more of a small forward in the NBA, and his adjustment to the league’s longer 3-point shot will play a role in that transition.

Williams worked out with the NBA’s Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday (the Cavs have the No. 1 and No. 4 pick in the draft this year).

Check out the video to see how he shot, in a small sample size, from NBA range in the ESPN studio.

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