TIP! It is important to practice catching the ball from others as much as passing. When you practice, drill yourself to pay attention to errant throws and passes that are picture perfect.

Basketball was the result of one person’s dream, Dr. It was a game that became popular rather quickly. In the last century, basketball has become among the most globally appreciated sports. Celebrities such as Doctor J and Magic Johnson have made the game fun for everyone. Many celebrities have come out of basketball. If you would like to read more about what made them successful, continue to the article below.

TIP! Improve your passing abilities by challenging yourself to perform drills without actually dribbling. It is quite challenging to play the game without dribbling, but it does make sure you and your teammates make accurate passes.

When dribbling the basketball you should keep your head up. By focusing your sight on the ball, you cannot be fully aware of your surroundings. Bring your ball along when you go out. Walking to your mailbox? Dribble the ball. Staring at the ball doesn’t allow you to watch the other players.

TIP! You can improve your control of the ball by spreading your fingers. You will have better luck holding onto the ball as well.

Making free throws are almost as much a mental part of the game as they are a physical part. With everyone watching, it can be easy to allow the pressure to interfere with your game. Relax and concentrate on your basket to increase your free throws.

TIP! Concentrate on your shoulders if you have gotten into a shooting slump. You won’t be able to make a shot if your shoulders aren’t in the right position.

Frequent pass catching practice is important. Be sure to be able to catch off-target throws on top of good ones. When the game is going on, every pass isn’t going to make it to its target. Be a better teammate by anticipating a bad pass to make sure it doesn’t get into the opponents hands.

Core Muscles

TIP! Between the leg passes are usually helpful when another team’s players are riding you hard. To practice this skill, bounce the ball between your legs so that it passes through as you step back and forth.

Basketball players of all ages benefit from exercises that strengthen their core. Core muscles include hips, abs and the lower back. Core muscles are the connectors between arms and legs. If the core muscles are weak, basketball performance will suffer. A strong and solid core allows force that is generated via the legs to be used for helpful movements during the game like higher jumps and faster running.

TIP! In order to become better at dribbling the ball you should learn how to practice using your weak hand. Getting by an opponent should be a lot easier if you can dribble using both hands.

Your defensive game will be more successful if you know your opponents. Watch tapes of their games and see how others move on the court. See if you can determine each players strong and weak sides. Knowing an opponent’s dribbling, passing and shooting styles gives you a definite edge on defense. A knowledgeable defender is a strong defender.

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.

A solid routine is necessary for improvement in free throw shooting. If you aren’t able to be consistent then you’ll be off when you shoot. You should work on your free throw techniques as much as possible until they become a second nature. A break in your routine will foul the shot.

TIP! Never pass up a charging opportunity. By taking charge you can create a defensive stop so you can get the ball, and allows you to create setups so that the opponent will foul you.

A good defensive strategy will keep your opponent on their toes. Force opposing players into an unfamiliar or unexpected position. Use aggression with your moves. Do not allow them to pick and choose their plays. This will give your opponent the chance to run over you. Make your moves first and end their patterns.

TIP! Don’t just practice while static; try to move around while shifting your weight to learn how to best control the ball. Basketball games are fast and you will encounter different scenarios while dribbling.

Hard dribbling helps avoid stolen balls. This will make the ball come back to you faster, and the opponent will have a hard time to get it from you. When you are being guarded closely, pass the ball.

TIP! Do exercises that will assist you in becoming a better player. Running sprints can make you faster on individual plays, while long-distance running helps you make it through a game with good stamina.

A good basketball drill to perform is to see if you can get the ball down the entire court in 5 or less dribbles. It isn’t impossible, it just takes practice. This may mean you can get your team some numbers for a period of time, or you can do easy lay-ups.

TIP! Remember that your diet has a great affect on your basketball performance. If you play all the time, you need to eat carbs on a regular basis.

Change your pace up to throw the offense off. While you run at the net, plant the front foot and start straightening your body. This will confuse your opponent into adjusting their stance. All the while, push ahead hard then run past them.

Strength Training

TIP! For the best balance, make sure you land with your feet spread apart. Clasp your hands around the sides of the ball, and clutch it tightly to your chest.

If you play basketball, you should incorporate strength training into your workout routine. Stamina and physical strength are required for basketball excellence. Younger kids can benefit from boosting their arm and leg strength with proper exercise. As they grow and gain skills, they will be even better players. As an adult, a player must continue strength training for optimum performance.

TIP! If the person whom you are guarding is bigger than you, you should be the barrier between this player and the player with the ball. This keeps them from grabbing a pass and shooting over you.

Hoops that are 10 feet tall, courts that are comparable to the length of football fields, and 10 players are all that’s needed for playing regulation basketball. You have to know a lot about it if it’s something you want to do good at. Using this article as a starting point, keep practicing and learning and you’ll soon be a master of the game.