Basketball is simply not just a game you play in gym class or intramural competition. You could have fun playing at the park or right in your driveway. If you love basketball, it would be a good idea to read this article to learn some new skills.
It is important to focus on both offense and defense when learning to play basketball. Defense is what stands between you and a win. Without good defense, a basketball team will lose the match.
Make sure that you’re dribbling the right way.When dribbling the basketball, only use your fingertips instead of your palms. This gives you the ball better.
Always dribble with your head up when dribbling instead of focusing on the ball.You haven’t practiced enough if you keep looking at the basketball while dribbling.Take the basketball around off-court wherever you go. Dribble the ball when you’re walking to the dog. If you have to watch the ball, you’re unable to see what’s going on down the court before you.
Always dribble with your head up and looking forward. If you have to look at the ball while dribbling, that means you need to practice more. Take your basketball everywhere. Try dribbling even when walking to a store. If you are looking at the ball, you cannot see what is happening down the court in front of you.
A good way to hone your own basketball abilities is to watch the pros.
Don’t pump a lot of iron if you want to be good as a jump shooter. While muscle strength is good to have in any basketball position, perimeter play requires less than other positions. Some pro shooting guards make their field goal percentage.
To improve your game, concentrate on your strong points. Your talent might not make you a star; however, learning your strengths will help you become a better team player. Figure out what you do well at and then you can practice that until you perfect it.
Play games against yourself during the season and out of season. While basketball is a team sport, you may not be able to find others that will play. There is much that you can improve your own. Practice pivoting and free throws.There are always things you can work on.
Hand signals can help stop you from making bad passes. Hand signals can help you if your teammate is ready.
A good way to improve team passing to use a no dribbling drill, that is to play the game without dribbling at all. While this may be difficult, it gets you used to finding teammates and thinking on the run. It may seem nearly impossible at first, but over time your team will learn to throw accurate passes and be in good position to receive them.
Never play through an injury. Basketball is very physical sport and you can get injured. Trying to play while injured will just cause more damage. See a doctor if you think your injury is serious.
Passing between the legs is great when you have defense all over you.Practice dribbling the basketball between your legs while stepping forwards and backwards. Mastering this movement gives you with a major advantage on the court.
What do your teammates admire about your skills? Are you great at any one thing? Maybe you are nimble or you are reliably there to support them. Find out what others think your natural abilities are, and be certain to keep developing those skills.
To generate consistency with layups, take off using the foot that;s the opposite of your shooting hand. This will keep your body properly balanced and going towards the basket.
Free Throws
Spreading out your fingers is key to handling the ball correctly. The ball will not get away if you always keep your fingers spread when handling the ball. Your palm should touch the ball as little as possible. Only your fingers should touch it during a pass or when dribbling.
A consistent pre-shot routine will help you to achieve great free throws. If you’re not consistent then you’ll be off when you shoot. The simplest way to make sure you’re doing great at free throws is through constant repetitive motions when shooting the ball.
Being a successful defensive player means upsetting and disrupting the game of your opponent’s play. Don’t let your opponent get comfortable. Be aggressive as you execute.Do not let them call the plays that they make.
Boost your defensive abilities by studying the opposing team and its players. Review videotapes and monitor scouting reports. Figure out which people are right or left handed. Understanding your opponent allows you to effectively play defense. A defender with an education will be good at what they do.
Dribble hard to avoid ball to be stolen. If your opponent is playing you up close, bring your dribbling to an end and pass the ball to another open team member.
You need to take a charge when the opportunity presents itself.
Watch your shoulders and their position if you notice yourself developing a slump in your shooting. If your shoulders aren’t properly positioned, your shot is not going to go in. You’ll want to ensure that your shoulders are squared up towards the hoops. The shoulder that’s dominant needs to be lined up with the rim perfectly.
Changing your pace is key to keeping the offense is paying attention. When you approach the goal, act like you’re going to straighten up. The guard is sure to anticipate a slow-down and will straighten their own body. When they do this, try pushing forward hard and running right past them.
Whether you enjoy the occasional casual game or compete in local tournaments, improving your skills on the court can help you get more out of the game. After reading this article, it is time to put that knowledge to work. The more you know, the better your game will be.
Get someone to analyze how you play on tape. Can you see where you can improve your form? Are there things you might have done differently? Be honest in your assessment but not overly critical. It can be an eye-opener to see how you’re playing the game really, not just what you picture it to be.