TIP! Focusing on the offense may come easily but you need to be able to focus on the defense as well., Defense is what wins basketball games.

Are you ready to learn some new techniques? You want to play a better game. Yet you do not know all there is to know about being a good basketball player. This article will probably teach you some things you don’t already know. Read on to learn how to become a better basketball player.

TIP! To get better in your basketball game, focus on your strengths. Your strengths might not make you a star player, but you’ll be contributing a lot to your team.

Make layups a part of your daily practice regimen. Four out of every five shots taken in a given game will be layups. Run full tilt to the basket, then smoothly jump and shoot. Perfecting this skill will enable you to get to the rim effortlessly during a game.

TIP! You need to practice more than defeating a zone defense. The majority of game play might take place in the zone, but that doesn’t mean that the opposing team will not try to catch you off guard.

Free throws require both mental and physical abilities. It’s easy to physically train for a free throw, yet mental preparation is also needed. Relax and focus on the basket; this will help you succeed.

TIP! Passing quickly without dribbling is a great way to practice. Playing without any dribbling is very hard, but builds your passing skills.

Practice the skill of pass catching. During practice you should come up with drills where you perfect catching bad passes along with the good ones. Some passes may be too high, too low or off target, so you should practice receiving passes often. Therefore, it pays to practice catching passes that are a bit off-target.

TIP! Good footwork is important when you’re posting up in the paint. Although it’s important to have a physical presence underneath the basket, it’s more important that you get in a good place before your opponent can.

If you’re posting up, good footwork is the key to getting open and getting a good shot. Although it’s important to have a physical presence underneath the basket, it’s more important that you get in a good place before your opponent can. Plant your feet and own that spot. These will both require powerful footwork.

TIP! When playing basketball, it is important to always keep your eye on the ball. Passes and turnovers won’t take you by surprise because you will be more aware of what is happening on the court.

Never play through an injury on the court. Basketball is very challenging physically, and this can cause further serious injury. Being tough is one thing, but playing through injury can only harm you even further and make the problem much worse. If an injury is serious, go to see a physician.

TIP! Spread your fingers out to handle the ball properly. This will help you to be sure that it won’t escape your grasp when trying to hold it.

Seek advice from your teammates about how you play the game. Are you great at any one thing? Maybe you are quick like lightening or maybe you are a strong defender. Improve the skills where you tend to be a bit weaker while maintaining your stronger skills.

TIP! If your shooting is in a slump, take a look at your shoulders. If you do not have your shoulders positioned properly, you will not make the shot.

Speed is a key attribute in the game of basketball. Speed always gives you an edge over your opponent. Steady drilling will help speed up your play. But don’t try to go even faster than you actually are. If you push too hard, your performance may be haphazard, and the game may get out of control.

TIP! To dribble the ball better, it is important that you practice dribbling with the hand that’s weaker. It will be much easier to blow past your opponent if you can dribble with both hands.

Get someone to analyze how you play on tape. On tape, you can see all the opportunities you passed and how things could have gone better. Be honest in your assessment but not overly critical. The reality of your play is often very different from your perception.

TIP! To avoid having the ball stolen, dribble hard. This makes the ball go back to your hand quicker, so offense has reduced chances at taking it from you.

To become a better free throw shooter, use the same routine prior to every shot. Whatever you do before each shot, from dribbles to body motions, should be the same each time. By developing a quick ritual, you can help train your body to make free throws.

TIP! Strength training can improve your game. Being physically tough is as important as having the stamina to keep up with the game.

Keeping in mind these helpful tips, you should be re-energized to play a game. It’s wonderful to learn something new and see how it ends up working for you. Keep the information learned here close by to help you better your skills. Basketball is a great sport to have fun with!