Jaland Lowe’s recent statement about Trent Noah—that he might be the best shooter he has ever seen—is a bold declaration that immediately grabs attention and invites deep reflection on what it truly means to be an exceptional shooter in basketball. In a sport where shooting is one of the most scrutinized skills, and where countless athletes have dazzled fans and analysts alike with their precision, range, and consistency, such a claim carries weight and deserves thorough exploration.
First, understanding the context in which Jaland Lowe made this statement is crucial. Lowe, a player and analyst known for his keen eye and basketball intelligence, does not casually hand out praise. His judgment likely stems from extensive observation, either through firsthand experience playing against or alongside Trent Noah or through careful study of his gameplay on film. When Lowe says Noah might be the best shooter he has ever seen, it reflects not only on the volume of shots Noah makes but also on the quality, variety, and efficiency of those shots.
Shooting in basketball isn’t just about making baskets; it’s about making shots under pressure, from different spots on the floor, with defenders closing in, and in critical moments of a game. It’s also about the mechanics—how smooth and repeatable the shooting motion is—and the mental fortitude to remain calm and focused when the stakes are highest. Trent Noah’s shooting evidently ticks all these boxes according to Lowe.
To appreciate Lowe’s perspective, one must delve into what makes a shooter great. Shooting in basketball can be dissected into several components: technique, range, consistency, quick release, decision-making, and clutch performance. Let’s analyze these one by one in relation to what we know about Trent Noah.
Technique is fundamental. Great shooters have a shooting form that is fluid, balanced, and repeatable. The best shooters rarely miss because their form allows for high accuracy and minimal deviation. From what has been reported and observed, Trent Noah’s shooting mechanics are near flawless. His balance, the positioning of his feet, the alignment of his arms, and the follow-through are textbook examples of ideal shooting technique. This consistency in form allows him to replicate shots perfectly time and again.
Range is another defining factor. The modern game increasingly rewards players who can score from deep beyond the three-point line, stretching defenses and opening the floor. Trent Noah has been noted for his deep range, confidently pulling up from distances that even some NBA-level shooters hesitate to attempt. His ability to score from long range forces opponents to respect him from the outset, which in turn creates opportunities for his teammates.
Consistency ties into both technique and mental strength. Shooting is a rhythm-based skill, and maintaining rhythm over the course of a season—or a career—is what separates good shooters from great ones. Trent Noah’s shooting splits, if examined statistically, would likely show remarkable consistency, maintaining high percentages from field goals, three-pointers, and free throws. Such reliability can shift the momentum of games and seasons. Lowe’s claim likely reflects his recognition of this consistency.
Quick release is a subtle but vital element of elite shooting. The faster a shooter can get the ball off without sacrificing accuracy, the harder it is for defenders to contest the shot. Trent Noah’s quick release means that defenders often find themselves a split second too late, rendering their defensive efforts ineffective. This trait is especially important in today’s pace-and-space style of play, where rapid decisions and quick shots keep defenses off balance.
Decision-making is often overlooked when discussing shooters, but it is crucial. The best shooters don’t just shoot a lot—they shoot smart. They pick their spots wisely, avoid forced shots, and understand the game’s flow. Trent Noah’s basketball IQ enhances his shooting prowess, as he knows when to pull the trigger and when to pass or drive. His shot selection minimizes wasted possessions and maximizes scoring efficiency.
Lastly, clutch performance—the ability to make shots under intense pressure—cements a shooter’s legacy. Many players can shoot well in practice or during the early parts of games, but only the best rise to the occasion in crunch time. Trent Noah has repeatedly demonstrated his clutch gene, hitting critical shots in close games, which Lowe undoubtedly has witnessed firsthand. This ability to deliver when it matters most is a hallmark of elite shooters.
Comparing Trent Noah to other great shooters historically adds further weight to Lowe’s statement. The basketball world has seen legends like Ray Allen, Stephen Curry, Reggie Miller, Larry Bird, and Klay Thompson—players who have defined eras with their shooting. For Lowe to suggest that Noah might be the best he has ever seen places him in that rarefied company. What might set Noah apart, as Lowe implies, is perhaps the combination of raw talent, refined skill, mental toughness, and adaptability that makes him uniquely effective in a variety of situations.
Beyond the mechanics and numbers, there is also the intangible impact of having such a shooter on a team. Trent Noah’s presence on the court alters how defenses operate, often drawing double teams or forcing opponents to extend their coverage. This creates strategic advantages and opens lanes for teammates. Lowe’s appreciation likely includes this broader impact—recognizing that a shooter of Noah’s caliber is a game-changer not just in scoring but in how he influences the entire flow of the game.
It is also important to consider the evolution of shooting in basketball and how Trent Noah fits within that narrative. The game has evolved from mid-range jumpers and post plays to a heavy emphasis on three-point shooting and spacing. Shooters like Noah are at the forefront of this evolution, embodying the shift toward versatile, high-volume, and efficient shooters. Lowe’s praise can be interpreted as acknowledging Noah as a modern archetype of shooting excellence.
Of course, no player is without flaws, and even the best shooters can have off nights or periods of inconsistency. However, the very fact that Lowe uses the word “might” suggests a cautious admiration rather than an absolute declaration. It shows respect for the difficulty of comparing players across different eras and circumstances. Nevertheless, his observation invites fans, analysts, and fellow players to pay close attention to Trent Noah’s shooting and to appreciate the rare skill he brings to the game.
The discussion around Trent Noah’s shooting also raises broader questions about how shooting talent is identified and developed. Many players have natural shooting ability, but the best shooters refine their craft through relentless practice, coaching, and mental preparation. Trent Noah’s rise as a shooter could serve as a case study or inspiration for aspiring players who seek to elevate their own games.
