Basketball has really exploded in popularity and is now adored by millions all over the world. You need to know all about it, though, if you want to play the sport or just watch it. Read on to find out more.
Learn to crossover if you get the ball often. A crossover happens when you switch hands the ball is in. This must be done quickly to be successful. Once you have learned how to do a crossover, you can travel down the court quickly.
You should often work on your layups. Since layups account for the majority of scoring in a game. When you practice, run full speed ahead at the basket, jump, and shoot. Practicing this technique helps you learn to make layups during a game.
Passing quickly without dribbling is a great way to practice. It is a challenge not to dribble while playing, but it will ensure the accuracy of your team’s passes. Don’t get frustrated if it’s hard at first because it will get better over time.
Need to dupe the opposition? Consider the back pass. Hold the basketball with your writing hand. Pull it behind you. Flip your wrist towards the site where you want the ball to go. It’s a great way to trick your opposing team.
Make it your goal to never turn away from the ball on the court. You have to be aware of what is going on with the ball at all times. Knowing where the other players are on the court helps you open passing lanes and gives you more opportunities to take a shot.
Study you opponent well to give yourself an edge. Watch tapes and stay up on scouting reports. Remember which player shoots left and which shoots right. Knowing your opponent well helps you be much more effective. A knowledgeable defender is a strong defender.
Quickness is a blessing in basketball. Speeding up the temp allows you to out-quick your opponent. Playing fast takes practice, though, and steady drilling. Make sure you never play past the speed you are comfortable. Doing so can cause the game to spin out of control as turnovers and faulty passes are made.
Watch your own recorded games, and look for weak areas. Can you see chances that you missed or ways that you could have done better? It is important that your assessment is an honest one, but isn’t overly critical. The reality of your play is often very different from your perception.
Make layups count by taking off with the foot that is opposite to your shooting hand. This means that if you shoot with your right hand, take off from your left foot. This helps to maintain balance throughout your body and allows you to use yourself as a barrier between the defender and yourself.
Try to strengthen your forearms and hands to better handle the ball. Strong hands make it easier for you to keep control of the basketball. Don’t believe you will be able to simply plant yourself someplace, receive the ball and sink a shot. Good dribbling skills will help you always stay in movement.
It is impossible to beat the excitement of a basketball match. However, if knowledge of the game is lacking, newbies might feel overwhelmed. With any luck, the reader will discover that this article has made them a more effective player on and off the court.