TIP! Shooting has much to do with proper balance. While some NBA players are able to launch a ball to the net mid-fall, this is not appropriate for most people.

The best way to achieve your goals in the sport of basketball is to always be willing to practice. However, it is of utmost importance that you make sure you are practicing correctly. You will also find out which skills are most important.

TIP! One great way to pass good is to drill when you can without dribbling. It is tough to play when not dribbling, but your accuracy is sure to inprove.

Look forward and hold your head up while you dribble the ball. If you are looking at the ball for any reason while dribbling, you have not put in enough practice. Carry your basketball everywhere. Dribble the ball while you’re walking around. If you look your ball, you can’t see the court.

TIP! If you have a kid wanting to play basketball in high school, be certain that they are properly training their core muscles. Focus on hips, lower back and abs.

Constantly practice layups. Almost 80% of shots will be layups. When you are practicing, run full speed at the goal and make the shot. Drill the jumping technique regularly so you can do layups very smoothly and always stay in control of where the ball is going.

TIP! Try using hand signals to prevent passes in error. One of the more frustrating aspects of basketball is making a pass to a teammate at the same time they head to the basket.

Would you like to completely fool the opposing team, making them look silly? Consider the back pass. Hold the ball using your dominant hand. Now, pull it behind your back. Flip your wrist towards the site where you want the ball to go. It’s a great way to trick your opposing team.

TIP! You can improve your control of the ball by spreading your fingers. This keeps it under control.

Ask fellow team members what they like about your skills on the court. What are your your best skill areas? Maybe you are nimble or you are reliably there to support them. Honest feedback can really help you to narrow in on areas where you might need a little extra help practicing.

TIP! You want to always be aware of foot placement and what you’re doing. Stepping your toe in a baseline with a ball in your grip will mean that you’re out of bounds.

You can improve your control of the ball by spreading your fingers. You will have better luck holding onto the ball as well. However, remember to keep your palm away from the ball. Your fingers should be all that is holding the ball when you pass it or shoot it.

TIP! To be a strong defender, you must have the ability to disrupt and interfere with the opponents’ plans. Get them outside their comfort zone.

If your shooting is in a slump, take a look at your shoulders. If your shoulders aren’t properly positioned, your shot is not going to go in. Your shoulders should always be square towards the basket. Try to line your dominant shoulder up with the rim.

TIP! Perform exercises to strengthen the muscles in your forearms and hands in order to maximize your ability to handle the ball. Consider wrist curls and and exercise machine that focuses on strengthening each finger individually.

Create and stick to a routine each time you prepare to shoot a free throw. This may mean you want to dribble three times, touch your forehead, bend at the knees, or do anything else. This routine will help you make your free throws, but make the routine a quick one.

Free Throws

TIP! Keep low as you defend. This stance will keep you ready for whatever comes your way.

Consistent free throws require a consistent technique. If you aren’t consistent, you won’t make the basket. A great way to get better at free throws is to practice, practice and then practice the same routine some more. If your routine is off, then you will miss the shot.

TIP! Always bend the knees while dribbling. The farther the ball has to bounce, the less control you will have of it.

To help improve your ball handling skills, start incorporating your weak hand into your dribbling. If you’re using both hands to dribble the ball well then you can get by an opponent easily. Tie the main hand you use behind your back so that you have to use the weak hand. After a while, your weak hand will be able to dribble better.

TIP! Practice dribbling while you switch your body’s momentum from one side to the other. This will have you ready for a game, when you will need to move any direction on a moment’s notice.

To rebound a free throw, you have to be quick. Guards will be attempting to stop you, so get around them. This technique will help you rebound the ball without getting a foul called on you.

TIP! If it is possible, keep all action below the knee. This prevents your opponents from stealing the ball.

Don’t break out of defensive stance always remain in the proper defensive position. Stay in the right position by pushing off of your opposite foot. If you never allow your feet to cross one another you will invariably be a very hard player to get passed.

TIP! For exercise, do a workout regimen that will enhance your skills and presence on the court. Sprints helps with individual plays, and long-distance running gives you stamina.

To trap with a 2-3 zone, have your guards cover the point guard once he gets a few feet past midcourt. They should then trap the point guard. Simultaneously, make sure you own forwards are free to sprint to the opposing players who are out on the wings. You will see the opposing point guard make a bad pass that anyone on your team can steal.

TIP! Switching up your dribbling rhythm can really throw the defense off. Changing your pace quickly can take the other player by surprise and give you an advantage.

To increase the strength of your weaker hand, utilize it for doing everything, including brushing your teeth and opening jars. Being more dexterous means you will have better control. As a result, your basketball game will significantly improve.

TIP! Positioning is key in picking up an essential rebound. Use both feet to jump up to create more force and quickly snatch the ball, grabbing it with two hands.

Keep dribbling until you want to shoot or pass. You are limited once you cease dribbling. If you can’t shoot or pass, then you will have to pivot with your back foot. Then, you will be vulnerable to being double teamed by the opposition, and you are likely to have the ball stolen.

TIP! Make your opponent dribble with their weak hand. If your opponent favors their right side, step to them using your left foot.

Dribble the ball below knee level. This will make your opponent struggle to steal the ball from you. To help this occur, you must be bending, however it will speed up your efforts to move down the court.

TIP! Keep your anxiety level low when shooting. Keep focused on the goal.

Many shots from the court corner end up sailing right over the basket. If that happens, you can guess the place where it will go and manage to get the rebound.

TIP! You have to have a good pivot to play well. You must practice your footwork until pivoting correctly is second nature.

You need to learn how to change your opponent’s personal path. No matter what position you play, the ability to control other players is essential. That will ensure you control the game.

TIP! In terms of basketball, good communication is essential. When a team is practicing, this needs to be planned out.

It matters not how regularly you get to play basketball, because this advice will help each and every time you get the chance to hit the court. Just start with one tip and watch your game improve. Improve you shot, learn how to make better passes and get inside for the rebound.