Of course. Here is a complete, in-depth article about what constitutes a good True Shooting Percentage (TS%).
What is a Good True Shooting Percentage? A full breakdown to Basketball's Most Efficient Metric
In the modern era of basketball analytics, where every statistic is dissected to gain a competitive edge, True Shooting Percentage (TS%) has emerged as one of the most critical metrics for evaluating a player's scoring efficiency. Unlike traditional field goal percentage, which only considers two-point and three-point attempts, TS% provides a more complete picture by factoring in points scored from all sources, including free throws. But what exactly is considered a "good" True Shooting Percentage? So the answer isn't a single number but a nuanced benchmark that varies significantly by position, role, and league level. This guide will break down everything you need to know about TS%, from its calculation to what constitutes an elite, good, and below-average mark.
Understanding the Formula: How True Shooting Percentage is Calculated
Before we can define "good," we must understand what TS% measures. The formula itself is straightforward:
TS% = Points Scored / (2 * (Field Goal Attempts + 0.44 * Free Throw Attempts))
Let's dissect this. Plus, the denominator, 2 * (FGA + 0. 44 * FTA), represents the total number of "shot attempts" a player is responsible for. The multiplier of 2 signifies that each field goal attempt is worth two points in an ideal scenario. Still, the 0. 44 factor for free throws (FTA) is a crucial adjustment. It accounts for the fact that free throws are worth one point, but a player must be fouled to earn them, which is a less common outcome than a standard shot attempt. Here's the thing — the 0. 44 coefficient essentially converts free throw attempts into an equivalent number of two-point field goal attempts.
The numerator is simply the total points a player scores. Which means, TS% measures the percentage of available points a player converts on each of their "shot attempts," including the bonus of getting fouled.
Example: A player scores 25 points on 10 field goal attempts (FGA) and 5 free throw attempts (FTA). TS% = 25 / (2 * (10 + 0.44 * 5)) TS% = 25 / (2 * (10 + 2.2)) TS% = 25 / (2 * 12.2) TS% = 25 / 24.4 TS% = 1.024 or 102.4%
This exceptionally high number shows the player was incredibly efficient, converting well over a point per potential two-point shot.
What is a Good True Shooting Percentage? The Benchmarks
A TS% of 50.Even so, anything above 50% means a player is scoring more efficiently than a league-average shooter. So this is the equivalent of a 50% field goal percentage with no free throws or three-pointers. Plus, 0% is the absolute baseline for efficiency. On the flip side, in the modern NBA, where spacing and three-point shooting are emphasized, league averages have risen Simple, but easy to overlook..
People argue about this. Here's where I land on it.
NBA League Averages (Recent Seasons): The average TS% for qualified NBA players typically hovers between 55.0% and 56.0%. Which means, in the context of the NBA:
- Below 54.0%: Considered inefficient. A player in this range is a liability on offense unless they contribute significantly in other areas (e.g., playmaking, rebounding).
- 54.0% - 57.0%: Good to Very Good. This is the range for solid, productive players. Many starters and key rotation players fall into this category. It indicates a player who is a reliable scorer.
- 57.0% - 60.0%: Excellent. This is the mark of an elite offensive player. Players who are highly efficient scorers, such as Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry, and Giannis Antetokounmpo, often operate in this zone.
- 60.0% and Above: Elite/All-Star Level. Reaching the 60% TS% plateau is a sign of supreme offensive efficiency. It often belongs to players who are dominant inside the paint (like Nikola Jokić or Joel Embiid) or exceptional three-point shooters who also draw a high volume of fouls. Historically, only a handful of players have led the league with a TS% above 60%.
Position-Specific Benchmarks
The definition of "good" is highly position-dependent. The expectations for a center are vastly different from those for a point guard.
- Point Guards / Shooting Guards: A good TS% for a guard is 55.0%+. Guards typically take more contested shots and are responsible for more playmaking duties, which can lower their shooting efficiency. An elite guard like Stephen Curry consistently posts TS% above 60%.
- Small Forwards / Power Forwards: A benchmark of 56.0%+ is considered good for these versatile positions. They often blend shooting, driving, and mid-range scoring.
- Centers: The benchmark for centers is the highest, often 58.0%+. Because they primarily score close to the basket on dunks and layups, which are the most efficient shots in basketball, their TS% is naturally higher. A center shooting below 55% is generally seen as inefficient.
Factors That Influence True Shooting Percentage
Several elements beyond raw talent affect a player's TS%:
- Shot Selection: This is the most important factor. A player who lives in the paint or shoots high-percentage threes will have a much higher TS% than one who settles for long twos and contested jumpers.
- Free Throw Rate: Players who are aggressive and draw fouls can boost their TS% significantly. Getting to the line is a high-value outcome.
- Three-Point Shooting: The three-point line is a great equalizer. A player who shoots 40% from three is far more efficient than one shooting 40% from mid-range.
- Role: A player's role on the team heavily influences their shot quality. A "star" player taking tough, contested shots will have a lower TS% than a "role player" who only takes open shots.
Common Misconceptions About TS%
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Misconception 1: High TS% equals being a good player.
- Reality: A player can have a high TS% by being limited and only taking the easiest shots. Conversely, a superstar like LeBron James or Luka Dončić might have a "lower" TS% (e.g., 58%) because they create and take difficult shots that others can't. Context is king. TS% is best used to compare players with similar roles or to evaluate a player's efficiency over time.
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Misconception 2: TS% is the only efficiency metric that matters.
- Reality: TS% is fantastic, but it's part of a family of metrics. It doesn't account for turnovers, defensive impact, or playmaking. A more complete picture is painted by looking at TS% alongside metrics like Player Usage Rate, Assist Percentage, and defensive ratings.
Conclusion: Putting It All Together
So, what is a good True Shooting Percentage? It's a dynamic benchmark, not a fixed number. In the NBA, a TS% above **
