TIP! Practice shooting free throws. This is something that seems simple, but in reality it can be hard.

In order to be great at basketball, you must remain dedicated and practice often. Even if you’re only playing for enjoyment, you wanna be the best, right? The following tips will help you improve your game.

TIP! Having a good foundation is key when shooting the ball. Having good balance will allow you to keep better control of the ball as well as play a better defense.

Make sure you are dribbling the right way. Use fingertips to dribble. This will give you better control of the basketball. Always dribble to your side, not your front. Don’t look at the ground, always keep your eyes focused forward.

TIP! A bounce pass is essential to learn. Bouncing the pass to the receiver should be at their waist.

Learn the best way to make your free throws. The free throw shot might seem simple, but it can actually be pretty difficult. Practice this technique regularly. To start off, hold the ball in front of you. Keep your eyes on the goal and visualize the ball going into the goal. Then, use the trajectory you just visualized and shoot the ball.

TIP! Play by yourself to practice. Even if you can’t get a bunch of people together to play, you can still practice on your own.

When using the ball a lot, you must relearn a crossover. A crossover means moving the ball between your hands. You must do it fast for best success. If done correctly, a good crossover helps you get past your opponent and to the rim.

TIP! It is best to take a break if you sustain an injury while playing. Basketball is hard to play well even when you are healthy, so don’t push it.

Work on improving your strengths to become an even better player. Even though your best abilities might not make you stand out each game, it is sure to help you contribute to the overall success of the team. Focus on the skills you have and work to make them better.

TIP! When playing basketball, it is important to always keep your eye on the ball. You will enjoy greater court awareness and avoid feeling surprised by rapid changes in game play.

Don’t limit your practice to just playing against the zone defense. Your opponent may change their game up to keep you on your toes. If your practice did not include this, you can quickly lose control of the game.

TIP! Ask a friend to record your games so that you can see how yourself in action. This way, you have the opportunity to go through your play at a later time and see your mistakes.

If you experience a basketball injury, don’t keep playing. Basketball is very challenging physically, and this can cause further serious injury. If you keep on playing after sustaining an injury, you may make the injury even more serious. Serious injuries may require medical attention.

TIP! To help perfect your free throw abilities you should perform a consistent routine. You could dribble twice, touch your forehead, bend your knees, or some other kinds of movements.

If you’re shooting isn’t what you’d like it to be, make sure that your shoulders are in the correct position. When your shoulders are positioned improperly, you will never make the basket regardless of how good your abilities are. Make sure your shoulders are always square towards the hoop. The dominant shoulder needs to be aligned correctly with the rim.

TIP! Practice passing while looking in the opposite direction. This should befuddle your opponent.

Where are your feet? You will be called out of bounds if even one toe is touching the baseline as you hold the ball. In addition, if you move your feet and you don’t dribble, you will be called for walking. Also, when you’re moving your feet when a screen is being set, you can take a charge or pick to try and get a foul.

TIP! Improve your ball-handling by strengthening your hands and your forearms. Exercises that involve strengthening the wrist are especially helpful for dribbling.

Get someone to analyze how you play on tape. Did you spot something that could be improved? Be honest with yourself but don’t be too harsh. You can learn a lot by watching how you play and what you need to concentrate practicing on.

Free Throw

TIP! Improve your basketball skills by incorporating strength training into your fitness regimen. Being physically tough is as important as having the stamina to keep up with the game.

Do your free throw shooting the same way every time. You could dribble twice, touch your forehead, bend your knees, or some other kinds of movements. Just remember it has to be fast and consistent. The reason is, this routine will put your body on alert that the next thing coming is a free throw. This will help insure your success.

TIP! To create a trapping machine in a standard 2-3 zone, have your two top defenders or your guards wait until point guard is about 10 feet from the time line or midcourt. They should then trap the point guard.

You need to prepare for action, using the strategies that have been discussed here. Over time you will see progress if you stick to a plan, practice regularly and never give up. This will lead you on your way to success!