A Modern Basketball Shooting Machine is More Affordable Than You Might Think
by Adam Pan, on Feb 18, 2016 1:03:41 PM
Most coaches would agree that a basketball shooting machine is a valuable asset to any basketball program. The option to triple the amount of reps a player can get in the same amount of time is a huge game changer. Not to mention the other benefits available on some machines often overlooked like: player accountability, practicing for a goal, analyzing of practice stats to drive game strategy, and working on game-like shots.
These options are great for a team that can afford it, but what about the small programs that can barely have enough money in their budget for jerseys let alone shooting equipment?
I’m here to tell you it is possible!
How can I afford a basketball shooting machine?
Let’s say you’re looking at a $5,000 basketball shooting machine - or approximately the Dr. Dish Rebel - the least expensive automatic shooting machine on the market currently. The price tag may seem like a lot, but it could be more realistic than you think.
One of the best ways to get a basketball shooting machine, or any basketball training equipment, into your program is to split the cost with other basketball programs at your school. Let's say you're the boys coach...then go talk to the girls coach! If you’re the girls coach...go talk to the boys coach! This can cut the cost literally in half.
Now your $5,000 machine is only $2,500!
Interest Free Financing
Most companies, including Dr. Dish Basketball, will help spread the cost out with 12 month interest free financing for schools. This should allow you to spilt the cost over 2 budget cycles. The terms are typically 50% of the cost of the machine upfront + shipping. Then you have 12 months to come up with the remaining balance INTEREST FREE. Not a bad deal, is it?
So if you've already split the purchase with the boys/girls program, the total impact to your current budget is just $1,250! Most programs will be able to fundraise an extra $1,250. And if you have 20+ players in your program, it can significantly cut your costs if each one is able to contribute towards the funds.
For exactly 25 players, the total cost per player = only $50 to reach $1,250!
Fundraising
Maybe you need to get creative to receive this $50 per player? One option is to try a grassroots approach: car washes, shooting challenges, bagging groceries, etc. This can be effective and fun at the same time!
Another great option that has been successful in the past: Once you purchase the machine, bring it out during open gym sessions and charge $10-$20 for shooting sessions to students and community members. This is a great way to come up with the remaining financed amount in a short amount of time.
Best of all, you’re not alone in this endeavor. By having your team and the opposite boys/girls team involved you can spread out the responsibility of fundraising over double the people. Get creative and make it fun! For great fundraising ideas, click here.
We know the $4,000 and upwards price tag can be a little daunting at first. But with a little teamwork, creativity, and commitment, it's very possible to get a machine in your gym soon no matter what your budget is!
To learn more about basketball shooting machines and creatively funding for them click here!
Now that you know it's possible to get a basketball shooting machine, you should ask these 5 questions!