Whether you want to shoot hoops like a pro or cheer from the bleachers, you need basketball information in order to enjoy the game. Don’t know the score? Don’t worry. Basket is really fun and not too hard to pick up. Read on for advice you can use for either viewing or playing basketball.
Keep your head up when you dribble. If you are looking at the ball for any reason while dribbling, you have not put in enough practice. Make the basketball an extension of your body, taking it wherever you are. On your way to the grocery store, practice your dribbling. Always look ahead when you are dribbling the ball.
If you get possession of the ball a lot, you must learn the crossover technique. A crossover happens when you switch hands the ball is in. This should be something you do quickly. Once you have learned how to do a crossover, you can travel down the court quickly.
A good tip is to practice your layups on a daily basis. This is the most popular shot in basketball. When practicing this technique, run toward the goal and shoot. Like everything, practicing at game speed will only improve your skill and have you ready to play at the fastest pace.
Free throws require both mental and physical abilities. Without a strong mindset, your body simply goes through the motions to take the shot. Relax and focus on your shot, and you can make it.
You want to be prepared for any type of defense the other team plays. Zone play will be important, but man-to-man will pop up from time to time, too. If your practice did not include this, you can quickly lose control of the game.
Improve your passing abilities by challenging yourself to perform drills without actually dribbling. It is hard to play basketball without dribbling, and demands accurate passing and teamwork, so it will be a challenge. Frustration can be an issue at first, but passing will improve as time goes by.
Knowing your opponent is the best way to play a tough defensive game. Watch tapes of their games and see how others move on the court. Learn which of the opposing players are left-dominant and which are right-dominant. Once you understand the opposition, you will now how to mount your defense. The strongest defenders are those who have information.
As you perform your fitness routine, make it a point to target your core and your footwork. Your body will retain balance and move quicker when you have strong core muscles. Give your hips, buttocks, back and stomach a workout. Jump rope like a boxer to improve your fancy footwork.
When playing a game of basketball, have a friend tape the game. This way, you can take a look at your game. Did you spot something that could be improved? Do not waste time criticizing yourself. Just make an honest assessment. You can learn a lot by watching how you play and what you need to concentrate practicing on.
Use deception by looking elsewhere when you make passes. This should befuddle your opponent. If you do it right, this draws your opponents’ focus the wrong way. It can be a really powerful move in the game.
Good footwork will help you get rebounds off your teammates’ foul shots. Be aware that the defender who is below you will start moving in your direction. Slip past him, and you can get the ball. This allows you to grab the rebound legally.
Not that wasn’t bad at all, right? Since reading this information, you know how exciting basketball can be. Use what you have learned here to play a better game or have a better time being a spectator.