The game of hoops was created by Dr. James Naismith in the year 1891. Since that time, it’s exploded into a beloved sport by many. So many great personalities have played this game. J and Michael Jordan are now huge celebrities. Read on to learn from the successes of some of the greats.
When learning the game of basketball, it’s easy to get caught up in offensive play. But you should also give plenty of attention to defense. Basketball games are won with a good defense. Offense is often what gets the glory, but most winning basketball teams play great defense.
Watch your form while you dribble the ball. Use fingertips to dribble. This allows you to control the ball much better while you dribble. Avoid dribbling in front of you and only dribble to the sides of your body. Look up and never down at the ground.
If you want to improve your game, play up your strengths. You might not become a big basketball star based on your strengths, but you will be an asset to your team. You can also focus on your weaknesses if you know what they are.
A good tip is to practice your layups on a daily basis. Layups sometimes wind up being 4 out of every 5 shots in basketball. When you practice, run toward the net, and then get a high jump in so you can smoothly shoot. Jump to the net and concentrate on shooting the ball in a specific location on the backboard.
When posting up, solid footwork is essential to getting yourself into position to shoot. You do, of course, need to be near the basket, but finding the right spot without getting blocked is essential. Once you find a spot, you need to know how to defend it. Strong footwork skills help to build both types of skills.
Try practicing looking in the opposite direction when you pass. You can really confuse your opponents this way. When it’s done properly, it will cause the opponents to go to the wrong area so that you can pass to someone that has a good look at a basket before shooting. Practicing this pass can really help to give your team the winning edge.
Make layups count by taking off with the foot that is opposite to your shooting hand. Use your left foot when shooting with the right hand. This gives you better balance, while keeping you poised toward the basket.
A consistent pre-shot routine when at the line will increase your chance at success. If you aren’t able to be consistent then you’ll be off when you shoot. The easiest way to make sure you’re doing great at free throws is to do repetitions of the same routines time and again. If you alter your routine then chances are the shot will not be good.
You can prevent other players from stealing the ball from you by dribbling hard. A hard dribble returns the ball back to you faster, leaving less chance of it being snatched by the other team. If another player is getting too close to you, it is best to pass the ball if a teammate is open.
Once you are in your defensive stance, remember to hold your ground. Slide your feet to the sides or push off using the opposite foot to always be in position. Always keep your feet from crossing, and you will make it hard for any opponent to get past.
To play in regulation basketball, you’ll need ten players and a hoop that’s at least ten feet high. If you desire to become an amazing player, you need the right knowledge. This article has been a great start, so continue learning and practicing until you master the game.