Basketball is not just a game you play in gym class or intramural competition. You can play at the park or even at your own home. If you are an aspiring basketball players, it would be a good idea to read this article to learn some new skills.
To improve your game, concentrate on your strong points. Your team will benefit more if you stop trying to be the star of the game and work your best. Know your strengths and keep practicing to get even better.
It is important that you practice layups. During any game, layups make up about 75 percent of the game. When you practice, you need to be able to run toward the basket at full speed, then shoot while jumping in the air. This method will teach you to improve your jumps and shots throughout the game.
Bounce Pass
A bounce pass is essential to learn. Executed properly, a bounce pass will connect with the receiving player at the waist. Aim for a firm bounce pass that hits the ground around 3/4 of the distance between you and the intended player. Practicing your bounce pass is important so that you can use it skillfully during games.
Don’t bulk up if you want to be good as a jump shooter. While muscle strength is good to have in any basketball position, it is possible to have too much for perimeter play. Some guards increase their upper body to the point of harming their field goals.
Want to make the other team not know what’s going on? Back passes are a great way to confuse other players. Hold the ball using your dominant hand. Then, bring the ball back behind you. Flip your wrist towards the site where you want the ball to go. It is an effective means of confusing your opponents.
Keeping your fingers spread will facilitate better ball handling. This can help you to remain in control of the ball at all times. Do not allow the palm of your hand to make contact with the ball. You should only let the fingers touch the ball during passing or shooting.
Knowing your opponent is the best way to play a tough defensive game. Watch tapes and stay up on scouting reports. Know which players are left and right handed. Knowing an opponent’s dribbling, passing and shooting styles gives you a definite edge on defense. A knowledgeable defender is a strong defender.
If you slump when you shoot, look at what your shoulders are doing. Shoulders are the key to a consistently successful shot. To help improve your shot, focus on squaring up on each of your shots. The shoulder that’s dominant should be in line with the rim.
Watch tapes of yourself playing basketball to get a more objective perspective. Do you see anything you could do differently? Assess yourself honestly, but don’t be a harsh critic. Sometimes you have to face reality about your skills and just not dream about how you want to be.
If you don’t want someone to steal the ball, dribble hard. The ball returns more quickly to your hand when you do this, giving the opponents fewer opportunities to steal it from you. If you are being closely guarded, you should cease dribbling and pass the ball to an open member of your team.
Altering your own pace is a good way to disrupt the opposition. When you are getting closer to the net, put your foot out and straighten up your body. The guard is going to think you’re starting to slow and will straighten up too. When that happens, rush forward and power 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 these tips into practice. As long as you’re learning, you’ll be improving your game.