Learning the basics of basketball is quite easy. Basic techniques can be learned in a couple minutes. However, you can always learn more to improve your game, and this article will give you some tips to get started.
It is important that you perfect dribbling the ball. Avoid using your palm while dribbling. Instead, use your fingertips. When you do this you will have more control over the ball. Be sure to dribble beside your body instead of in front of yourself. Bounce the ball at a level even with your waist. Keep your eyes up, not on the ground.
Learn to crossover if you get the ball often. A crossover happens when you switch hands the ball is in. That action has to be done fast to be successful. Once you master the art of the crossover dribble, you will be able to change directions quicker.
If you want to improve your game, play up your strengths. You can contribute to the team by consolidating your best skills, even if these skills do not make you one of the star players. Figure out what you do well at and then you can practice that until you perfect it.
Work on being able to receive a pass. Don’t just work on waist-level, perfect passes, though, work on receiving tougher passes as well. During a real game, many of the passes that come your way will be off-target and tougher to handle. So you should do the team a favor by knowing how to take in any kind of a pass that comes from someone.
Practice using different types of defenses. A lot of the game is sure to be played in the zone, but your opponent could change to man-to-man coverage. Be sure to practice for this eventuality so you will not become rattled and lose the game.
A great way to learn how to pass is by doing drills often with no dribbling. This helps to develop passing skills with your teammates, making it much more difficult if you’re standing in one spot and not dribbling. Keep your emotions in check if quality passing is not happening right away as it takes time to perfect this part of the game.
There are passes that can confuse the other team momentarily. Try using a back pass! You want to grip the basketball with your strongest hand. With that same hand, bring the ball around your back. The last step is to flick your wrist in the direction you want the ball to move. This should trick the opposing team.
Spreading the fingers is something you have to do to handle the ball right. That will ensure that it doesn’t get away from you as you hold it. Your palm should touch the ball as little as possible. Remember to maintain contact with the ball through your fingers only.
Having a pre-free-throw shot routine will help you become dependable at free throws. For example, many people touch their foreheads or tap their chest before making a free throw shot. As you adopt this routine, it becomes easier for your mind and body to prepare for the shot.
Maybe you are just starting out with basketball when you read this article. Maybe you have played since you were a little kid. No matter the case, the information below can help you play better. Follow the advice presented here the very next time you play basketball.