Is it possible to deform the point (or knuckle) of a pocket enough to force a ball in?

Yes. Here’s a large collection of both cushion and pocket point compression shots:

Here is an example point compression shot:

Here are some impressive trick shot examples from Florian Kohler (Venom).

Cushion compression away from the pockets can also be used to help make certain shots. For examples, see cushion compression shots.


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