TIP! Practice your defense more than your offense. In the end, it’s defense that consistently wins you games.

Basketball is more than just an activity you run around in during gym class. It is a game that can be played in the neighborhood and even on your driveway. If your passion is basketball, take the time to read the following article to learn more about the sport.

TIP! Put the emphasis on your strengths can help you to be a better basketball player. Your talent might not make you a star; however, learning your strengths will help you become a better team player.

Make sure to dribble properly. Don’t use your palm, use your fingers. Using your fingertips will allow you to have better control when dribbling the ball. Always dribble to your side, not your front. Keep your head up and do not look at the ground.

TIP! Practice your pass catching often. When practicing make sure you drill yourself to catch errant throws as well as picture perfect passes.

Put the emphasis on your strengths can help you to be a better basketball player. You might not become a big basketball star based on your strengths, but you will be an asset to your team. Realize your limitations, and roll with your talents.

TIP! A great way to learn how to pass is by doing drills often with no dribbling. It’s tough to play basketball minus the dribbling, and it causes you to pass accurately.

Practice your layups a lot. This will make up about eighty percent of shots during any basketball game. When practicing this technique, run toward the goal and shoot. Practicing your running and jumping as a single motion will improve your technique faster than practicing them separately.

TIP! Keep your skills sharp in the off-season by playing different challenging games. It is possible to enjoy this team sport even in the absence of your team.

Make sure to practice catching passes. While you are practicing, you should be sure to drill yourself on catching errant throws, as well as catching those perfect passes. During the course of a game, you can expect there to be many errant passes. You and your team mates will be happier if you (and they) are more versatile.

TIP! In order to get a good shot, you must use good footwork. Being physical under the rim is crucial, but having good positioning on the court is even better.

A great way to learn how to pass is by doing drills often with no dribbling. It’s tough to play basketball minus the dribbling, and it causes you to pass accurately. This may be hard and frustrating at first, but as you get the hang of it your entire team will begin to excel at passing.

TIP! When an injury occurs while you are playing ball, don’t keep playing with pain. You can easily tear a muscle or even break a finger while playing.

If you want to be a master of the jump shot, do not make weight lifting a priority. You do need muscle conditioning and strength, but you can have too much when it comes to shooting field goals. Many guards in the pros have developed their arm muscles too big, which has really harmed their shooting percentage.

TIP! Your defensive game will be more successful if you know your opponents. Follow the scouting reports and watch tapes of their games.

If you’re looking to be the best defensive player that you can be, you’ll want to know your opponent. Review tapes and keep up with scouting reports. Remember which player shoots left and which shoots right. Your defensive game will be a lot more effective after you get to know your opponent. The strongest defenders are those who have information.

TIP! Pay close attention to your shoulders if you’ve suddenly developed a shooting slump. When the shoulders are wrongly positioned, your shot is unlikely to succeed.

Have someone record the games you play so that you can watch it to check out your form. Are you able to see what you’ve missed or things that you could improve on? Look at how you did and judge yourself. The reality of your play is often very different from your perception.

TIP! Ask a friend to record your games so that you can see how yourself in action. Did you spot something that could be improved? Do not waste time criticizing yourself.

If your opponent is pressing hard, you can give yourself some room to work by dribbling the ball between your legs. Refine this skill by bouncing a ball with force between the legs while stepping backwards or forwards. When you get this move down, you will have an advantage.

TIP! To be a good dribbler, and a more versatile player, you have to develop not only your dominant hand but your weaker side as well. Getting by an opponent should be a lot easier if you can dribble using both hands.

No matter what kind of basketball you play, you will enjoy it more with more skills. After reading this article, it is time to put these tips into practice. Knowledge is strength in every venue, including basketball.