TIP! Keep your head up when you dribble. Looking at your ball when you dribble indicates that you haven’t practiced enough.

It is about time you learned about basketball. Even if you are a basketball player, there are things left for you to learn. However, you cannot know everything there is to know about basketball, and all good players are aware of that fact. Perhaps you can learn a few things from this piece. Continue reading to see how to improve your game.

TIP! Crossovers are very important if you’re a ball handler. This is when you switch hands while dribbling.

When dribbling, focus on what’s in front of you by keeping your head up. You should never be looking at the basketball while dribbling. Take the ball with you wherever you go. If you are heading down to the market, dribble as you go. Don’t look while dribbling, because you won’t be able to see what’s going on.

TIP! If you have a child who has expressed interest in becoming a basketball player in high school, make sure he trains his core muscles. The concept encompasses the abdominal muscles, the hips and the lower back.

If you get possession of the ball a lot, you must learn the crossover technique. A crossover happens when you switch hands the ball is in. This action most be quick to work out. One done the right way, the crossover dribble can help you change directions and get down the court more efficiently.

TIP! To be a good post-up player in the pain, you need to have really good footwork. Securing a good location is critical when playing basketball.

Improving your balance means improving your shots. Falling when you make a shot is not the right way to shoot. These players are using creative improvisation. Good balance while shooting will lead to landing more baskets.

TIP! Speed is one of the best virtues when playing basketball. If you want the advantage, you’ve got more quickly.

Practice catching passes as often as you can. When you practice, mix it up so that you can catch perfect passes and errant throws. When the game is being played, passes may not be as perfect as we’d like. Help your teammates by learning what you need to haul in those imperfect passes.

TIP! When playing a game of basketball, have a friend tape the game. This way, you can take a look at your game.

Play games against yourself in and out of season. These skills all help with muscle memory so you know just what to do when you’re playing in a game. No problem! You can still practice when playing alone. Work on free throws or practice pivot moves. You can always hone your skills when practicing alone.

TIP! Passing the ball through your legs is a useful maneuver if the opposing team is right on top of you. Refine this skill by bouncing a ball with force between the legs while stepping backwards or forwards.

If you’re on the offense, you footwork needs to be excellent to stay open for passes and shots. Being physical under the rim is crucial, but having good positioning on the court is even better. After establishing good position, you need to make sure you hold it. Good solid footwork will help you develop the skills you need for success.

TIP! To be a strong defender, you must have the ability to disrupt and interfere with the opponents’ plans. Make them uncomfortable.

One great thing to do if you wish to be prepared while playing is to make sure your back isn’t turned to the ball. You develop a good feel for the game around you, making it much easier to quickly react to your opponent. Keep an eye open for easy shots.

TIP! If you wish to get a free throw rebound from a teammate, you have to stay on your toes properly. Guards will be attempting to stop you, so get around them.

Focus on your footwork and your core strength in your workouts. When your core is strengthened, you will have more balance and be able to move more swiftly. Work your ab, back, hip and buttocks muscles. Jump rope can be used to speed up your feet.

TIP! Dribble hard to avoid ball stealing. This will make the ball come back to you faster, and the opponent will have a hard time to get it from you.

One of the most vital attributes one needs to play basketball is quickness. Make an effort to do all things on the court more speedily than the opposing team. Steady drilling will help speed up your play. Do not try playing faster than you can. If you try to rush your play, and can’t keep up, you will turn the ball over or make unforced mistakes.

TIP! Developing your muscle strength and flexibility will make you a better basketball player. When you play basketball you need a lot of stamina and strength to keep going through the entire game.

It is important to be aware of the location of your feet and just what they are up to. If you have the ball and you step outside the baseline, then you’re out of bounds. Going too many steps with no dribbling is a waking call and turnover situation. Also, moving either foot when trying to set a screen, pick or take a charge results in a foul call.

TIP! Be sure to keep your knees bent while you dribble. Standing straight makes it hard to control the ball.

If you have someone who can tape your game, you can view the recording to see how well you performed on the court. Can you see chances that you missed or ways that you could have done better? Honestly and openly assess your own performance. You can learn a lot by watching how you play and what you need to concentrate practicing on.

TIP! If you want to play better, communicate with your teammates so you know what they intend to do. Basketball is played by a team.

By using this advice, you ought to have a renewed enthusiasm for the game. It is wonderful to learn new things and have them work. Keep in mind the knowledge that has been shared, so you can start showing your skills. Basketball can be fun!