Sport, in all its disciplines, is a school of life. It cultivates discipline, perseverance, and technical excellence. Whether it’s a sprinter on the track, a swimmer in the pool, or a basketball player on the court, every movement counts. In basketball, shooting is one of the most iconic movements. But how does one become an elite shooter capable of making history? What are Nicolas Lang’s secrets?
A Passion Forged in Childhood
Behind every great champion, there’s a story. Nicolas Lang, considered France’s best shooter, started very young by learning the rules of basketball. His father, a former professional player, passed on two essential things: impeccable form and a deep love for well-executed work. “I loved spending hours training in the gym with my father,” says Lang, emphasizing that repetition is the key to mastery.
But not everything was allowed. As a child, Lang wasn’t “allowed to shoot from half-court” to avoid developing bad habits. This rigor was crucial in perfecting his shooting motion, which relies on perfect coordination between the upper and lower body. Every movement must be fluid, he emphasizes, as even a small detail can ruin the ball’s trajectory.
Endurance: The Shooter’s Secret Weapon
To reach the top, technique isn’t enough. Physical and mental endurance is essential to maintain consistency in effort. Lang attributes much of his success to his hard work in improving his cardio. During the pandemic, he followed specific training with his physical coach, inspired by Olympic athletes’ training principles.
Thanks to this preparation, he gained clarity in key moments, especially during fourth quarters. This physical resilience allows him to maintain performance, even when fatigue sets in. “Endurance is what separates good players from great champions,” he states.
A Style Inspired by Basketball Legends
Being an excellent shooter also means knowing how to learn from the best. Lang cites Kobe Bryant as his first major inspiration. The one-dribble pull-up, a Bryant signature move, became one of Lang’s favorite movements. However, he didn’t stop there. He constantly sought to learn, whether by watching NBA stars or lower division players. “Even a good shooter from the 5th division can teach me something,” he confided.
This curiosity allowed him to perfect various techniques, such as coming off screens or post-up movements. Every game, every practice is an opportunity for him to grow. This perfectionism makes him a role model for young athletes who aspire to excel in their discipline.
A Life of Discipline and Hard Work
Beyond technique, Nicolas Lang embodies the fundamental values of sport: work, passion, and humility. His career reflects a journey where every detail matters, where every failure is a lesson. He shows that even in a sport as fast and physical as basketball, the art of shooting remains a combination of mental discipline and physical strength.
Lang is also a source of inspiration for those who practice other sports. Whether interested in professional cycling or wanting to practice swimming, his journey proves that with determination and rigorous training, it’s possible to achieve excellence.
Basketteur de moins d’1m80, je prends la plume pour parler basket, cyclisme ou football. Je ne crie pas “Go Spurs Go” mais je suis Wemby de près. Et tant pis pour mes Trail Blazers qui végètent à l’Ouest…