Team Spotlight: Troy University
The 2016-2017 Troy University Trojans marked their own spot in history this year, complete with the most wins in a season since 2003-04 (22-15), the third-most Sun Belt wins (10) in team history, and a spot in the NCAA Tournament for only the second time in school history. Despite only trailing by nine against Duke in the second half of the first round game of the NCAA tournament, the Trojans could not quite overcome the Blue Devils. However, the loss was just one blemish in a season that saw the most improvement from the previous season ever for the team.
“Last summer, we made the financial commitment to purchase two [Noah Shooting] systems, and we've been thrilled with the results. Adding the Noah system last summer coincided with a distinct improvement in our offensive production during the 2016-17 season,” said Phil Cunningham, Head Coach at Troy University. “There are a lot of factors that lead to success in college athletics, and we all know that the number one ingredient is talent. We've got talent in our locker room, but adding the Noah undoubtedly contributed to us winning 22 games and playing in the NCAA Tournament for only the second time in school history.”
With the Noah Shooting System, Troy was able to track their team’s shooting percentage improvement between the previous season and the 2016-2017 season. As a team, the Trojans saw an 8.3 percent change in improved free throw shooting percentage and a 4.9 percent change in improved 3-point shooting percentage. One current sophomore on the team saw tremendous growth between his freshman and sophomore seasons. Shooting at only 55.6 percent from the free throw line and 28.4 percent from outside the arc his freshman year, this player improved to an 80 percent free throw shooter and 34.5 percent 3-point shooter the following season. If the statistical analysis of the player’s improvement between the two seasons isn’t enough, the teams record-setting season and most wins since 2003-04 is solid proof of how developing more consistent shooters can help teams win more games.
The Noah Shooting System helps teams like Troy make more shots and win more games, because it helps players understand exactly what they need to do to make shots consistently. The instant, audible feedback allows the shooter to make adjustments in practice that help develop the strong muscle memory needed to consistently shoot 45 degrees steep and 11 inches deep in the basket.
“Initially, I was drawn to the benefits of the Noah system that calls out the arc after every shot a player takes. I'm one of those coaches who doesn't try to tweak a player's shooting mechanics a whole lot because when he gets to us, he's been shooting that way for a long time,” remarked Cunningham. “On the other hand, I'm a firm believer in adjusting your arc if it can effect your shooting percentage in a positive way. The technological improvements made over the years to the Noah system are amazing, but I still believe that the greatest strength of the system is the audio feedback regarding the arc on every shot a player takes.”
Teams are given access to the Noahlytics data service, where they can review the analysis of their workout and detailed heat mapping charts from anywhere on the court. Noah’s grading system helps shooters see their improvement over time with shooting percentages and averages. Troy also used the system to encourage the team to workout on their own, which helped develop their skills.
“So how do we get guys in the gym on their own,” asked Cunningham. “Players love the immediate access to their results, and the Noah system has been one of the best motivators I've ever seen, especially with the really good shooters.”
You can learn more about how the Noah Shooting System can help your team become a more consistent shooter and improve year after year. Sign up to attend one of our free webinars hosted weekly or request a free shooting clinic at your gym from one of our top Noah representatives.