The average vertical leap in the NBA is 28 inches. This is no minor effort; 28 inches is an excellent height that would put the typical individual to shame. To reach this height, you need to start developing your leg muscles when you are young, because there is no way you can jump that high without training your legs. There are two main types of jumps in basketball: the layup and the dunk. The layup is made with either foot, while the dunk requires jumping with one foot back while throwing down a slam with the other. Both moves are important parts of a player's arsenal, but certain players can really boost their games by learning how to improve their vertical. A vertical leap is useful because it allows a player to get higher objects or simply avoid being touched on the court. A player can use his or her vertical to escape offensive rebounds, block shots, and throw down thunderous dunks! However, not every player has the ability to be a great vertical leaper, so if you are looking to increase your game then working on your leaping skills will help you become a more complete player. In addition to being able to reach higher objects, a player who can dunk regularly uses his or her body weight to create momentum and power when jumping.