by Emily Stiemsma, on May 8, 2025 10:56:57 AM
When it comes to basketball shooting machines, one question always seems to come up: Dr. Dish vs. The Gun®—what’s the difference?
There are many ways to answer this - but we're going to keep it simple today and focus on: Innovation.
At Dr. Dish, we don’t just make machines—we build tools that move the game forward. While competitors like Shoot-A-Way'sThe Gun® have stayed relatively static over the years, Dr. Dish has continued to evolve through intentional, meaningful innovation. And that’s why coaches, players, and programs at every level are making the switch.
We Don’t Chase Change—We Lead It
Our innovation isn’t just about being different—it’s about being better. Every feature we design and every update we launch is rooted in conversations with real coaches, players, trainers, and parents. Through feedback loops, interviews, and hands-on research, we identify real problems and solve them with smart, future-ready solutions.
We don’t overbuild and we don’t underthink.
Every Dr. Dish model is engineered to perform better, last longer, and run more efficiently—because that’s what today’s programs demand.
A Proven Track Record of Innovation
Since releasing our first machine in 2003, Dr. Dish has launched 8 new products and delivered 14 major feature releases—each one thoughtfully developed to meet the evolving needs of modern basketball.
Compare that to The Gun®, which has changed little in form or function over the years. While they continue to roll out the same basic model, Dr. Dish machines have introduced:
- Interactive touchscreen interfaces
- Custom workout builders and 250+ on-demand drills
- Advanced Player stat tracking and analytics
- Patented Swivel Net
- Mobile app integration for remote coaching and accountability
- Global leaderboards for added motivation and competition
- Multiplayer Mode, Me vs. Me, Knockdown, and countless other motivating features
- Lightweight, compact designs for easier setup and storage
For a complete list of our releases, check out our release timeline record.
Why Innovation Matters
Basketball is evolving fast. From spacing and pace to player development and data-driven decision-making, the demands on athletes and coaches have never been higher. Facilities and programs that want to stay competitive can’t afford to use outdated tools.
They need a partner who listens. One who adapts. One who leads.
That’s why Dr. Dish is trusted by more college programs, high school teams, and pro trainers than ever before.
While The Gun® still just moves the ball, Dr. Dish moves the game.
Final Thoughts
In the battle of Dr. Dish vs. The Gun®, the real question isn’t about specs—it’s about direction.
Do you want a machine that sticks to the past?
Or a machine that’s built for the future?
Choose Dr. Dish. Choose innovation. Choose progress.
The Gun® is a registered trademark of Shoot-A-Way, Inc. Airborne Athletics and the Dr. Dish brand is not associated with The Gun®.
