TIP! It is important to focus on both offense and defense when learning to play basketball. Defense is essential to winning these games.

Where should I start when learning about basketball? Is there some aspect of the game that would make a person become better and also love the game more? This article will provide you with great tips that will come in handy the next time that you go to play a game of basketball.

TIP! You need good balance when you shoot. Of course, pros may make baskets from a great distance while falling off the court, but this isn’t standard.

Make sure you are dribbling the right way. When dribbling the basketball, use your fingertips rather than the palm of your hand. This method gives you much more control of the ball. Keep the ball by your side as you dribble instead of right in front your body. Always look up and never look down at the ground.

TIP! A good way to get your basketball game up to speed is to start trying to see how the pros are playing. Try to go to games, watch televised games, or check out videos of the pros playing.

Practice shooting free throws. This looks easy, but it is actually very hard to do. Put this technique into practice as often as you can. Begin by holding the ball directly in front of your face. There may be a number of distractions so you need to focus on your goal. Then shoot the ball with the trajectory that you visualized.

TIP! You can learn to trick the opposing team. Try using a back pass! To do a back pass, begin by grasping the basketball using your dominant hand.

You must learn how to dribble, how a crossover is done and other important ball handling skills. A crossover means moving the ball between your hands. Your crossovers should be fast, which is why it is important to practice them. Crossovers can help you get out of a tight spot.

TIP! Try using hand signals to prevent passes in error. It can be frustrating to attempt to pass the ball to a team mate as that person is heading toward the basket.

Pay attention to what you are good at. Your skills might not make you an all-start every time out, but playing up your strengths makes you a great contributor. Perfect what you can do well by practicing and developing the strengths you already have.

TIP! Good footwork is important when you’re posting up in the paint. You must be certain to get the good spot ahead of your opponent.

You should practice against a variety of defense types, not just zone. Though much of the game is sure to be played within a zone pattern, the opposition may try to go man-to-man in order to confuse you. If you haven’t practiced against it, you could end up losing your grip on the game quite quickly.

TIP! When injuries occur on the court, it is unwise to keep on playing. The sport of basketball is very physical, which makes one susceptible to injury.

If you have a kid that wants to play basketball in high school, be sure they’re working on their core muscles. This includes their abs, lower back, and hips. The core is the muscle group that links the arms and legs together. If their core strength is poor, then so will their athletic performance be. A solid and strong core lets force that comes from the legs get used for beneficial movements when playing, like faster running and higher jumping.

TIP! Spread your fingers out to handle the ball properly. You are more likely to hold onto the ball this way.

Understanding the opponent is a good way to win with defense. Study video tape on your opponent and read over any scouting reports. For example, you should know which of the players are left-handed and which are right-handed. This knowledge will help you play the best game possible. The more knowledgeable a defender is, the stronger he is.

TIP! Speed is one of the best virtues when playing basketball. Try to play faster than your opponents for an advantage.

Whenever you work out, practice footwork and work on your core strength. If the core muscles are in good shape, you will feel lighter on your feet. Focus on the back, buttocks, and hip muscle groups. Just like with boxing, you can do a little speed and footwork training with a jump rope.

TIP! Practice dribbling with your weaker hand. Getting by an opponent should be a lot easier if you can dribble using both hands.

Pay attention closely to the shoulders if you’re starting to slump when you shoot. If you do not have your shoulders positioned properly, you will not make the shot. Be sure to keep the shoulders squared up to the hoop. Then, make sure that your shooting side is lined up directly to the rim.

TIP! Dribbling the ball fast and hard will help you to keep better control of it. The ball will get back to the hand faster, giving the other team less of an opportunity to grab it away.

Are you aware of the answers to the questions you have? Do you think you can now apply this knowledge on the court? After reading this article, you will be able to become a better ball player. Get out there and begin practicing while putting these tips into practice so you can reap the rewards.