TIP! You need to learn the correct way to dribble the ball. Avoid using your palm while dribbling.

Nobody wants to attempt an auto repair without a bit of research and training. The same standard goes for a sport like basketball. This article has many great expert basketball tips in it.

TIP! Knowing how to perform a crossover is a must when you handle the basketball frequently. A crossover means moving the ball between your hands.

You must become knowledgeable about hitting a free-throw shot. This seems like an easy shot, but it is quite hard. The following technique should be practiced often. Place the ball right in line with your face. Focus on the ball and visualize it going toward the goal. Shoot the ball how you imagine it going in.

Free Throw

TIP! If you’re going to be a jump shooter, don’t lift too many weights. Muscle is good, but you can have too much.

Free throws have a huge mental element to them. You can teach your body to make a free throw properly, but unless you are properly prepared mentally, you may not succeed. Stay calm and collected to increase your free throw percentage.

TIP! Understanding the opponent is a good way to win with defense. Make sure that you’ve watched tapes that show the other player.

You can learn how to pass well by drilling on it separately from dribbling. This is very hard to accomplish, but it forces you and your fellow players to work on accurate passing skills. Work through the initial frustration and see how the challenge will improve your game in the long run.

TIP! Quickness is something you have to have when playing basketball. Try playing faster than the opponents for a better advantage.

If you want to be a master of the jump shot, do not make weight lifting a priority. While muscle strength is good to have in any basketball position, it is possible to have too much for perimeter play. Many guards in the pros have developed their arm muscles too big, which has really harmed their shooting percentage.

TIP! Have a friend or family member videotape your games, then view the video to see the result. Did you spot something that could be improved? Assess yourself honestly, but don’t be a harsh critic.

Good footwork is essential to escaping coverage and putting yourself in position to take a shot when you are posting up. Although physical presence under the basket is important, getting to a good spot before your opponent does is even more important. Once you get into your position, you need to secure it. These will both require powerful footwork.

TIP! Get into a consistent routine to improve your free throw shots. If you’re consistent, your shots will be too.

If you’re injured in a basketball game, don’t attempt to play while in pain. Basketball is physically demanding, and injuries are relatively common. Trying to tough it out and keep playing, even if you are experiencing discomfort, can exacerbate an injury even more. If the injury feels too bad then seek medical attention right away.

TIP! You need to constantly disrupt your opponents in order to be a great defensive player. Force them to leave their comfort zone.

A great way you can prepare for what happens on the basketball court is to avoid having your back to the ball. You must always be prepared to receive a pass and you need to know where players are on the court. Keep your eyes open for areas that are open.

TIP! Dribble hard if you don’t want the ball taken from you. This makes the ball come back to you faster so the people on defense aren’t able to steal it as easily.

Work on passing through your legs to add another skill to your arsenal. Go forwards and backwards with the ball to practice bouncing it. Mastering this move can help give you an advantage on the court.

TIP! Practice drills where you strive to make it across the full court within 5 dribbles. It isn’t impossible, it just takes practice.

A solid routine is necessary for improvement in free throw shooting. If you aren’t consistent, you won’t make the basket. A great way to get better at free throws is to practice, practice and then practice the same routine some more. You will probably miss your shot if the routine you use is not perfect.

TIP! One good way to play good defense is to stay in the defensive stance at all times. Stay in the right position by pushing off of your opposite foot.

Gain pride and confidence by learning how to play the game with skill. That said, except for becoming a better basketball player. This information will help you become better and help you win games for your team.