TIP! When dribbling, your head must be up, and you need to look forward. If you must look at the ball while dribbling, you haven’t practiced enough.

Basketball is a game that can be enjoyed by anyone. People of any age or gender enjoy playing this exciting game. The next time you’re playing a game, show your friends your new moves. Basketball is a complex sport so there is always opportunity to improve your game. If not, continue reading to find great tips about basketball.

TIP! Having a good foundation is key when shooting the ball. You have seen some crazy shots made by professionals, but these shots aren’t going to be based on fundamentals.

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. Defense is how you win a basketball game. While everyone focuses on shots made, a good defense can kill the chances of even an amazing shot taker.

TIP! It is important to know the right way to throw a bounce pass. If done properly, the pass will land near waist level with the opposite player.

Keep practicing your layups. Layups sometimes wind up being 4 out of every 5 shots in basketball. It’s critical to practice running towards the basket at full speed and following up with a good jump and smooth shot. Practicing your running and jumping as a single motion will improve your technique faster than practicing them separately.

TIP! There are passes that can confuse the other team momentarily. The back pass is perfect for this.

Shake things up rather than focusing solely on a zone defense. While much of the game is played in zone, the opponent can flip to man-to-man coverage, changing everything and surprising you. Practice with each type of defense so you will know what to expect.

TIP! Children who aspire to become great basketball players in high school must engage in physical fitness activities that focus on the core muscles. This is the hip area, the lower back, and the abs.

Need to dupe the opposition? Try the back pass. Hold the ball in your strong hand to start the pass. The next step is to draw the ball behind you. Lastly, flick the wrist in the direction you want the ball to go. This should help to trick the other team.

TIP! If you’re injured in a basketball game, don’t attempt to play while in pain. Basketball is hard to play well even when you are healthy, so don’t push it.

Never try to push through pain after an injury. Basketball is hard to play well even when you are healthy, so don’t push it. Trying to continue playing even if you’ve got discomfort can make the injury worse. Serious injuries may require medical attention.

TIP! Being able to anticipate your opponent is a key skill. Review tapes and keep up with scouting reports.

Consistency in your approach is vital to becoming solid at free throws. This could mean dribbling twice, shaking out your head to loosen your neck or whatever else makes you comfortable. Just remember it has to be fast and consistent. The reason is, this routine will put your body on alert that the next thing coming is a free throw. This will help insure your success.

TIP! Concentrate on your shoulders if you have gotten into a shooting slump. When your shoulders are positioned improperly, you will never make the basket regardless of how good your abilities are.

Give your layouts the most by launching from the foot that opposes the hand you are shooting with. This will allow you to shoot with your comfortable hand. This balances your body when moving towards your basket. It keeps your body in between you and the defender.

TIP! You should always be aware of the position of your feet and their actions. Stepping even over a baseline when you’re in possession of the ball will have you called out of bounds.

A good defensive strategy will keep your opponent on their toes. Force them into an uncomfortable zone. Make assertive moves, keeping your opponent unsure of your next move. Other players should not influence the plays you make. If you do so, then your rivals have the control. Instead, take the initiative and disrupt their rhythm.

TIP! When you are passing the ball, get used to looking in the other direction. This will make your actions very confusing to the other team.

Alter your pace to confuse the opposition. When running in the direction of the net, straighten up while planting the front foot. The guard will assume you’re slowing down and start to straighten up, too. Use this opportunity to sprint past your opponent.

TIP! A good drill to try is the five dribble drill. You try to get the ball the entire length of the court in only five dribbles.

Defensive players need to stay low. This stance will keep you ready for whatever comes your way. Make sure you always maintain your defensive stance. If you need to block someone’s shot, quickly get back into your stance.

TIP! Trip up the offense by constantly changing your pace. When running towards the net, step on your front foot, and start to straighten up your body.

Keep the ball below knee level if possible. This is going to make things harder for your opponents if they want to steal the ball. It will take flexibility, balance and bending but just keep moving toward the goal.

TIP! Stay low when you play defense. This will let you get to the jump quicker and let you react to your opponent easier.

To keep your opponent on their toes, keep your dribbling steady and regular, then surprise them. Changing your pace can confuse them. It’s not just about going fast, it’s about changing the sound so the person gets a little confused.

Lean Meats

TIP! To build up your skills with your weaker hand, use it for everything from opening jars to brushing your teeth. The more dextrous you become with it in your daily life, the better able you will be to control it.

If you want to perform your best in basketball, you need to eat well. Playing basketball uses a lot of energy, so it is important that you eat a lot of carbs, lean meats and protein. Good foods that provide these essentials include nuts, lean meats and whole wheat breads. Look for foods with low amounts of fat and sugar.

TIP! Keep yourself calm when shooting the ball. Keep your view on the basket.

Make a strong team both off and on the basketball court. Great basketball games happen when teams work together. Once you and your teammates begin communicating, and even hanging out together in your spare time, your success should rise.

TIP! You need to learn to pass effectively in order to play a better game of basketball. Passing keeps your opponent guessing and on their toes.

Armed with the information presented here, you can enjoy your next basketball game with confidence and flair. You are now in possession of some of the best kept secrets of basketball. Just remember that games are supposed to be fun, so take it lightly. Whatever the case may be, it is fun to win the game.