TIP! When using the ball a lot, you must relearn a crossover. Being able to dribble the ball with both hands and crossover between the two will make you a better player.

Basketball is world wide passion. You can enjoy a good pickup game or the challenges of playing on a real team. Use this article to get more of an understanding of the game of basketball.

TIP! You have to know how to bounce pass properly. Executed properly, a bounce pass will connect with the receiving player at the waist.

Dribble properly. When you dribble a basketball you have to use the fingertips instead of the hand’s palm. Using your fingertips will allow you to have better control when dribbling the ball. Dribble off to the side waist high. Never look at the ground. Always look up.

TIP! Learn how to block out movement, noise and other distractions when taking a free throw. Of course, you can show your body how to make free throws.

Figure out how to perfect your free throw. This is one of those shots that seem easy but in real life are difficult. You should practice as often as possible with this technique. Start by holding your basketball right in the front of your own face. Your eyes should be on the goal. You should be thinking about the ball going in the hoop. Then repeat that when you take the shot.

TIP! You may have better luck honing your passing skills if you forgo dribbling during practice. It is hard to play a game when you don’t dribble, but it will help you to be sure that everyone is passing accurately.

Balance is vital to good shooting. Everyone has seen professional basketball players make a shot from 20 feet away as they are falling. This kind of improvisation is the result of years of practice and loads of ability. Keep your balance so you can consistently win points.

TIP! Talk to your teammates and find out what they like about your game. They will probably notice the things you do best.

Practice your passes and catches frequently. When practicing, try catching great passes as well as really bad passes. In the middle of a heated game, not all attempted passes will go exactly where you want them to go. Make sure that your teammates also practice this type of pass with you.

TIP! If you’re shooting isn’t what you’d like it to be, make sure that your shoulders are in the correct position. If they’re in a poor position, no matter your skill level, you will be unable to make the shot.

Need to dupe the opposition? Consider the back pass. Use the dominant hand whenever trying a behind the back pass. Next get the ball pulled up behind the back. Pass the ball from behind your back by flicking your wrist in the direction you want the ball to go. This is a good way to trick your opponents.

Core Muscles

TIP! Have your games taped so you can play them back later and observe your court presence. Do you see how you could’ve handled a situation differently? Stay honest when you’re assessing yourself, but don’t over criticize yourself either.

Children who aspire to become great basketball players in high school must engage in physical fitness activities that focus on the core muscles. The concept encompasses the abdominal muscles, the hips and the lower back. The core muscles link lower and upper extremities. Without a strong core, they won’t have strong athletic performances. If your core is solid, you will have greater strength in your legs. This helps with fast running and high jumping.

TIP! To help perfect your free throw abilities you should perform a consistent routine. This can be any combination of movements that makes you feel comfortable and prepare for the shot.

Unseen passes can be avoided when proper hand signals are used by teammates. Basketball passes can be really frustrating when shot wrong. Hand signals can be a great way to find out if a teammate will be able to receive your pass. If you don’t see a signal, you shouldn’t pass the ball.

TIP! Learn to pass the ball without looking at your intended target. This can go a long way toward confusing the opposition.

Your defensive game will be more successful if you know your opponents. Pay attention to how they play. For example, you might look to see which players favor their left side and which have dominant right hands. Once you start to get to know the other team, you can do a lot better when you’re on defense. A smart defensive player is a strong one.

TIP! In order to ensure that you are always ready to defend, keep your stance at all times. You will always be in a defensive position if you slide your feet one way and then the other and push off using your opposing foot.

It is important to be aware of the location of your feet and just what they are up to. When you are in possession of the ball, touching the baseline will get you out of bounds. You will get called for walking if you take extra steps and are not dribbling. You may get a foul call if you move your foot while you are attempting to take a charge, pick a charge or set a screen.

TIP! Alter your pace to confuse the opposition. Sprint towards the hoop then quickly plant your foot, then straighten up.

Ask a friend to record your games so that you can see how yourself in action. You’ll likely see ways that you can improve. Don’t get yourself down about your performance, but stay honest with yourself concerning where your game needs some work. There are times when it pays to view yourself realistically.

TIP! Always attempt to remain low when you are playing defense. You will become faster and react faster.

Be slick with your feet so you can get a rebound from a teammate. The person defending the position down-court from you will be coming at you, so you need to find any way you can to slide around him that gets you to the ball. Doing this lets you get a rebound freely and not commit a foul in the process.

TIP! When shooting, try to keep your nerves under control. Stay focused on the hoop.

Now you know how to better your game. It really is not that hard, you just need a bit of knowledge and dedication. Begin playing and before you know it, you will be playing every day. And be sure to have some fun out on the court as well.