TIP! Make it a point to concentrate on both your defensive and offensive skills. Focusing only on offense does not make you a well-rounded player.

What is there to learn when it comes to basketball? What should I study to become better and to understand the game more completely? This piece offers a valuable foundation and ought to provide you with terrific insights about playing smart basketball.

TIP! Learn how to hit a free throw shot. This is one of those shots that seem easy but in real life are difficult.

Make sure to dribble properly. When dribbling the basketball, use your fingertips rather than the palm of your hand. You retain much more ball control this way. Dribble along the side of the body, not immediately in front of it, and keep the bounce to the waist level or below. Keep your head up, do not stare down towards the ground.

TIP! Look forward and hold your head up while you dribble the ball. If you must look at the ball while dribbling, you haven’t practiced enough.

Learn the mechanics of a free throw. These shots look easy on television, but are actually hard when you are doing the shooting. You should practice as often as possible with this technique. Hold the ball level to your face. Then, look at the ball and visualize it going in the basket. Then, use the trajectory you just visualized and shoot the ball.

TIP! Learn how to maneuver a crossover if you have the ball fairly often. Being able to dribble the ball with both hands and crossover between the two will make you a better player.

A good way to get your basketball game up to speed is to start trying to see how the pros are playing. Go to a bunch of professional games in person, watch them on television, or just get online to search for basketball videos. Watch great players to learn the specific skills that make them exceptional.

TIP! If you want to excel, you have to play to your strengths. Your skills might not make you an all-start every time out, but playing up your strengths makes you a great contributor.

Shake things up rather than focusing solely on a zone defense. Most of the game is played in zone, but your opponent may try to switch things up to do man-to-man coverage. You might lose your control of the court if the other team use this technique, unless you are ready for this possibility.

TIP! Don’t spend all your time practicing how to confront a zone defense. Usually, a big part of the game is probably going to be in zone; however, the opposing team can suddenly switch to man-to-man to catch you off guard.

Good footwork is important when you’re posting up in the paint. You do, of course, need to be near the basket, but finding the right spot without getting blocked is essential. Once you’re in position, you also need to secure your spot. Good footwork is key to a good basketball game.

TIP! Jump shooters should not also be iron pumpers. Strong muscles are certainly useful for basketball, but you can overdo it if you plan to play on the perimeter.

One good way to always be ready for whatever happens on the court is to never turn your back on the ball. It’s all about court awareness, and always facing the ball will make it so you are less surprised by passes. That means less turnovers. Be vigilant to detect openings or weaknesses that make it easier to take the shot.

TIP! Play solo basketball in the months leading up to the season, as well as during the season itself. Basketball is sport played in teams, but there are times when no one is around to play with you.

Always be aware of the locations of your feet and what they’re doing. You will be called out of bounds if even one toe is touching the baseline as you hold the ball. If you travel without dribbling, you’re going to get yourself into a turnover situation. Also, moving a foot when setting up a screen can result in a foul.

TIP! See if your teammates admire something in particular about your game play. Are you skilled at something? It could be your speed, or it could be your back-up abilities.

A good way to see yourself playing is to have someone record your games. Did you spot something that could be improved? Honestly and openly assess your own performance. It can help you to see how you really are instead of what you imagine you are.

Free Throws

TIP! To become a reliable free throw shooter, always go through the same routine before each shot. It could be that you dribble several times, bend at the knees, brush your hair out of your eyes or do something else.

In order to be more reliable shooting free throws, practice your routine. You could dribble twice, touch your forehead, bend your knees, or some other kinds of movements. Just make your routine quick, so that it can be consistent, and your body is going to remember just how to nail free throws following your ritual.

TIP! Develop and use a consistent routine for shooting free throws. A consistent routine enables the shooter to have a perfect motion every time.

To help improve your ball handling skills, start incorporating your weak hand into your dribbling. Utilizing both hands to dribble the basketball and switching effortlessly is key to advantage over an opponent. You can actually force yourself to utilize your weak hand by tying your other hand behind you. Your weak hand won’t be that for long!

TIP! You must be able to box out other players when attempting to rebound free throws. Be aware that the defender who is below you will start moving in your direction.

Do you understand what it takes now? Are you prepped to hit the court running? Will you be able to handle being a much better player after reading these tips? Continue to practice and use the above advice and enjoy the outcome.