TIP! Make sure you are dribbling the right way. Use fingertips to dribble.

The sport of basketball is so much more than a casual game here and there. Basketball can be played at the park, driveway or at the local rec center. If you enjoy basketball, find out all you can in order to play better. The article that follows will help.

TIP! One of the most important skills when playing basketball is balance. You have seen some crazy shots made by professionals, but these shots aren’t going to be based on fundamentals.

Playing basketball does not require excessive muscle development. Muscle strength is beneficial for playing any basketball position, but there is such a thing as too much. Shooting guards that end up with bulked up arms sometimes find that it affects field goal percentages.

TIP! If you’re posting up, good footwork is the key to getting open and getting a good shot. While physical positioning is important, it is even more essential to move quicker than an opponent.

Good footwork is important when you’re posting up in the paint. Being physical under the rim is crucial, but having good positioning on the court is even better. Once you find a spot, you need to know how to defend it. Practicing your footwork is important to master these skills.

TIP! In order to be your best on defense, take the time to completely understand the player you are guarding. Watch tapes of their games and see how others move on the court.

If you become injured when playing basketball, stop immediately. Basketball is physically demanding, and it is easy to get hurt. Trying to continue playing even if you’ve got discomfort can make the injury worse. Visit a doctor if you think it’s serious.

TIP! Pay attention closely to the shoulders if you’re starting to slump when you shoot. If your shoulders are in a bad position, no matter how good you are, you won’t make the shot.

To properly handle the ball, you have to spread your fingers out. This will keep the ball from getting away while you hold it. You should avoid having your palm touching the ball. Whether you are passing or shooting the ball, your fingers are the only part of your hand that should be touching the ball.

TIP! Always be aware of the locations of your feet and what they’re doing. Out of bounds will happen with even one toe over the baseline of the lined play area on the court.

Learn to pass the ball without looking at your intended target. This is a great technique in order to help confuse the opponents. When done properly, this technique distracts the opposition and gives your pass recipient a chance to focus on the basket. This can be a great play if it is done correctly.

TIP! To become a better free throw shooter, use the same routine prior to every shot. Always dribble the same way, or with the same movements.

A consistent pre-shot routine when at the line will increase your chance at success. A consistent routine enables the shooter to have a perfect motion every time. Practice and repetition are the only way to become a consistent free thrower. If you are off your game, you will not make the shot.

TIP! Build a routine to improve your free throw game. Your shot could be off if you are inconsistent.

You need to mess with your opponent’s head. Focus on getting them out of the comfort zone. When you are guarding, do so aggressively. Do not allow them to pick and choose their plays. Your opponent will take any opportunity to give you the run around. Try to interrupt their game plan by taking charge and controlling the tempo.

TIP! If you wish to get a free throw rebound from a teammate, you have to stay on your toes properly. You need to seek out a way to quickly slide around your opponent and be able to quickly react to the ball.

A good way to develop ball handling skills is to make your forearms and hands stronger. Wrist curls work well at helping you handle the ball. Don’t think you can just go somewhere on the court, catch a ball and then make a successful shot. Good dribbling skills will help you always stay in movement.

TIP! Never break your defensive stance when playing ball. Stay in the right position by pushing off of your opposite foot.

Dribble hard to make it less likely for the ball to be stolen. This is because the ball returns to you hand faster, so the opposing team has less of a chance to get it. If you have an opponent who is guarding you relentlessly, it is time to pass the ball.

TIP! When you are on the defense, the key is to stay as low as you can. Doing so improves your reaction time with regards to your opponents’ actions.

Whether you enjoy the occasional casual game or compete in local tournaments, improving your skills on the court can help you get more out of the game. You’ve taken the time to read this article, now go one step further by making use of it. The more you pick up, the better you can play.