Basketball begins as a new adventure for most. You probably learned how to dribble the ball and make a shot. Now you may feel that you know quite a bit about the game. The tips below can show you that there’s much more to learn.
Correct dribbling is key. Don’t use your palm to dribble, but use your fingertips instead. You’ll have a lot more control over the ball this way. Bounce only at the level of your waist at the side and not in front. Keep your head up and do not look at the ground.
Learn the best way to make your free throws. The free throw shot might seem simple, but it can actually be pretty difficult. Use good technique when shooting foul shots. Start by holding your basketball right in the front of your own face. Eye the basket and imagine the ball swishing down into it. Shoot the ball how you imagine it going in.
Any good basketball player needs to know how to make a layup. Since layups account for the majority of scoring in a game. It’s critical to practice running towards the basket at full speed and following up with a good jump and smooth shot. Knowing how to run and jump quickly and smoothly will assist you in knowing how to leap and shoot more effectively while playing.
Better your basketball skills by watching the pros play. It is important that you see how other people play the game. You will quickly notice all the different skills that they have which makes them a great player, then take what you learned and use it to help improve your own game.
Practice your passes and catches frequently. Try to catch all of the passes that are thrown to you. This will help to improve your game when it gets intense. Being able to get imperfect passes will limit turnovers.
If there’s no one around to play with, it is okay to play a basketball game by yourself. Basketball is sport played in teams, but there are times when no one is around to play with you. Don’t fret! You’ll still be able to get a lot done when playing solo. Work on your pivot moves or practice your free throws. You can always work on something.
Try using hand signals to ensure that your passes are received. Basketball passes can be really frustrating when shot wrong. Players should use hand signals often when available for a pass. If your teammate misses your signal, then they may miss the ball as well and the other team could gain possession.
Build your core strength and focus on your legwork when you train for basketball. A strong core allows you to be more balanced during games. Work the muscles in your abdomen, back, buttocks and hips. Your speed and footwork can be improved by jumping rope.
To get better at shooting free throws, make sure to keep a consistent pre-shot routine. This can include the number of times you dribble, how you position your feet, or anything else. By developing a quick ritual, you can help train your body to make free throws.
Passing between the legs is great when you are being closely guarded. You can train for this maneuver by stepping forward or backwards as you bounce the ball real hard in-between your legs. Mastering this move can help give you an advantage on the court.
Practicing with your weak hand will help to make you a better dribbler. If you have two hands that can dribble the ball effortlessly then it becomes easier to get by your opponent. Exercise your non-dominant hand by securing your dominant hand at your side or behind your back. You will improve dribbling with your weak hand soon enough.
A good defensive strategy will keep your opponent on their toes. Don’t let them get comfortable. When making a move, be aggressive. Do not let them call the shots. This will give your opponent the chance to run over you. Instead, make the first move and interrupt their rhythm.
To improve 3 point shooting, practice from NBA distance, at least. All other distance lines, high school, college and International, are not as far. By practicing at the NBA line, you will be used to getting a look a little further than what most defenses will cover.
A missed corner shot will usually end up on the opposite side of the basketball court. If so, you should be able to guess its next location and move to get the rebound.
You have to learn to get your opponent to alter their path. Regardless of your position, having this control allows you to limit the other player’s options. The will help you get to where you want to go and will deter them.
After catching a ball that has rebounded, land on your feet, spreading legs wider than your shoulders in order to get greater balance. Hold the ball tightly against your chest with one hand on each side. Take care to ensure that your elbows do not strike another player, as this is considered a foul.
The position you take just before and just after getting a rebound will play a large role in whether you can retain possession. Jump with both of your feet to have more balance and power and then get the ball gripped with both of your hands. Once you have the ball in your position, come down to the ground with your legs spread out to make sure you don’t stumble.
Being a good passer is key to being a good basketball player. Passing keeps the defense confused. It also shows you value teamwork and this will be appreciated by your teammates. You can show your skills when the time is right. You don’t want to get the reputation of being a ball hog.
This article has provided you with excellent ideas for improving your game, so the ball is in your court. Set reasonable goals and practice regularly to become the best player possible. Adding in these tips will help you achieve your goals to improve your game.