TIP! It’s simple to want to work on offense when you’re getting into basketball, but it’s smarter to think about defense practice too. In the end, it’s defense that consistently wins you games.

Basketball ranks among one of peoples’ favorite sports to both watch and play. It’s not that simple to be the most talented in the game. While athleticism and genetics might determine your rank somewhat, basketball can be fun for everyone. Continue reading to learn how to play the game to the best of your ability.

TIP! You must become knowledgeable about hitting a free-throw shot. The execution of a free throw is not as simple as it may appear.

Dribble properly. When you dribble a basketball you have to use the fingertips instead of the hand’s palm. When you do this you will have more control over the ball. You should be dribbling the ball at your side instead of in front of your body. The ball should always be dribbled at waist level. Do not look at the ground; look up at all times.

TIP! Look forward and hold your head up while you dribble the ball. If you have to look at the ball while dribbling, that means you need to practice more.

Practice shooting free throws. As easy as these shots may seem, they are rather hard. Put this technique into practice as often as you can. Start with the ball positioned right before your face. Eye the basket and imagine the ball swishing down into it. Then shoot the ball with the trajectory that you visualized.

TIP! A great way to bolster your basketball ability is to observe those who are considered to be the best in the sport. Go to games, watch them on TV and you can also watch videos.

If you want to improve your basketball game, you must identify and intensify your strengths. Your team will benefit more if you stop trying to be the star of the game and work your best. Understand your strengths and use it to your advantage to help your team win!

TIP! Don’t pump too much iron if you plan on being a jump shooter. Being weighed down by too much bulky muscle can have a negative impact on your jump shot.

You can improve your skills by paying attention to how the pros play. Go to actual games or watch on TV. Each player has their strengths and you can learn a lot from each one.

TIP! You may get injured while practicing or playing. Don’t try to play if you are hurt.

You want to be prepared for any type of defense the other team plays. A lot of the game is sure to be played in the zone, but your opponent could change to man-to-man coverage. You may lose control of the game if you aren’t prepared.

TIP! See if your teammates admire something in particular about your game play. They will probably notice the things you do best.

Prior to basketball season, and even during it, you can play solo games. Basketball is sport played in teams, but there are times when no one is around to play with you. That’s OK! It is possible to get a lot done even when playing alone. Go to the free throw line and work on your shots. There is no shortage of things you can do.

TIP! Focus on your footwork and your core strength in your workouts. With strong core muscles, you will have better balance.

Making a pass from between your legs is sometimes a good option when the opposing team is right on top of you. This will make it very hard for your defender to get it. Mastering this skill will provide you with a major advantage on the court.

TIP! Quickness is something that’s desired in basketball. You need to be faster than the opposing team if you want the advantage.

To get more out of layups, take off using the foot that;s the opposite of your shooting hand. Thus, if you use your right hand for shooting, you need to push off using your left foot. That will build your balance and help you stay in the right position.

Free Throw

TIP! High percentage free throw shooters typically have the same free throw routine prior to each and every shot. This can include the number of times you dribble, how you position your feet, or anything else.

In order to become a better free throw shooter you need to have a good practice routine. If you aren’t consistent, you will find that your shooting is off. If you want to perfect free throw shooting, pick a routine and repeat it continuously. You will probably miss your shot if the routine you use is not perfect.

TIP! In order to be successful with layups, the foot that is opposite from shooting hand is the one you should take off from. This means that if you shoot with your right hand, take off from your left foot.

You must disrupt your opponent’s game when you’re playing defense. Make them uncomfortable. Your defensive moves must be aggressive and executed properly. Don’t let your opponent decide their own plays. By doing so, the opponent will take advantage of you. You should make the initial move and throw them off.

TIP! To help you shoot better free throws you need to come up with a consistent routine. Your shot could be off if you are inconsistent.

Good footwork can really help you to get those rebounds. Use your feet to slip around the opposing player below you, then get into position for a rebound off the rim. This allows you to secure the rebound without finding yourself penalized.

TIP! Make your forearms and hands stronger so you can handle the ball better. For example, you can improve dribbling skills by adding wrist curls to your routine.

Never break your defensive stance when playing ball. Stay in the right position by pushing off of your opposite foot. Don’t cross your feet and no one will get around you.

TIP! Take charge when the opportunity presents itself. Letting the other guy run into you stops the game without having to use a time out, and adds another four to the opponent’s total.

Keep low as you defend. This helps your jumps become quicker and betters your reaction to the person before you simpler. Remain in a good defensive stance always. When you need to block, quickly get back into your stance.

TIP! Trip up the offense by constantly changing your pace. You can try faking a jump shot by planting quickly, and straightening your body.

Do you feel as though it’s time to show off your new skills? You might want to spend some time practicing first! Grab that energy and motivation, and go practice on the basketball court. In no time, you’ll see your skills improve thanks to the tips you’ve just read.