Basketball is incredibly popular. Regardless of if you are a spectator, a coach or a player, you know how exciting basketball can be. Those who play would prefer to become better players and win games. Here are a few things to keep in mind to help you make some great strides towards winning.
You need good balance when you shoot. While some NBA players are able to launch a ball to the net mid-fall, this is not appropriate for most people. They’re just improvising at this point. If you are able to improve your sense of balance, then you will find that your percentage of successful shots improves.
Make sure to practice your layups whenever possible. This is the most popular shot in basketball. During practice you want to get up enough speed to quickly get to the rim then easily lay the ball towards the hoop. Like everything, practicing at game speed will only improve your skill and have you ready to play at the fastest pace.
Free throws are mental as well as physical. It is possible to practice the physical movements needed to make such a shot, but when your mental focus is lacking, you are likely to miss. Be relaxed and concentrate on the basket and you will help you make more free throws.
One way to get a good understanding of your game is to ask your fellow players about your ability. Find out what they perceive as your best skill. Maybe you are nimble or you are reliably there to support them. Learn what other’s see as your natural skills and make sure to keep and develop those skills more fully.
Avoid turning away from the ball so that you can always be prepared for what occurs on the court. This helps you become aware of the court and lowers chances for surprises from turnovers and quick passes. Also, you need to stay aware of areas which might open up and give you an easy basket.
When playing a game of basketball, have a friend tape the game. This way, you can take a look at your game. On tape, you can see all the opportunities you passed and how things could have gone better. Evaluate what you see honestly, but don’t be too hard on yourself. The reality of your play is often very different from your perception.
Passing the ball through your legs is a useful maneuver if the opposing team is right on top of you. Refine this skill by bouncing a ball with force between the legs while stepping backwards or forwards. Mastering this movement gives you a big advantage on the court.
When doing a layup, start running using the weaker of your two feet. Practice shooting using your right hand, then jump off your left foot. Doing this lets you maintain balance and movement towards the goal, while keeping your body in between your defender and your shot.
In your drills, you should attempt to move the basketball the length of the court in fewer than half a dozen dribbles. You may find this very challenging, but once accomplished it will give you a real edge. This translates to simple layups, fast breaks or just a general increase in your team’s numbers.
There are lots of ways to become a better basketball player. Most of them are just basically learning a particular technique, then practicing that technique until you can do it in your sleep. Anytime you practice it makes you a better player, and whenever you have the opportunity to do so, do it. Practice alone, with friends or with your team, just so you can better your game.