Abstract: An apparatus is provided for assisting players during practices or games in games, such as basketball, in which a ball or other object is directed toward a desired location. A video camera detects the ball and provides a signal indicating the location of the ball. A processor uses the location to determine an optimal location to direct the ball, and provides a signal to an illumination system. The illumination system provides a visual indication of where the player should direct the ball. The apparatus should be able to accommodate a game in which a ball may move quickly.