TIP! You must become knowledgeable about hitting a free-throw shot. This may seem like an easy task, but in reality, things prove otherwise.

Anyone who loves to play basketball can become obsessed with the game. If you play the game and want to get better, you need to put in the work and make a commitment. This is the responsibility of every team member, so it’s important that team members view their own skills and abilities realistically. These tips will help you become a better basketball player.

TIP! If you want to improve your game, concentrate on your strengths. You may not be the star player, but by contributing the best way you can you will win more games.

Learn the best way to make your free throws. This is something that seems simple, but in reality it can be hard. Practice constantly using this tip. Hold the ball level to your face. Concentrate on the basket and visualize the basketball going in. Then, use the trajectory you just visualized and shoot the ball.

TIP! Free throws have a huge mental element to them. You are able to train your hands and legs to free throw well, but if you think you will fail, you will.

Having a good foundation is key when shooting the ball. While the all-time greats have shown time and time again how they can shoot while off-kilter, this is not the ideal way to score. This kind of improvisation is the result of years of practice and loads of ability. Keep your balance so you can consistently win points.

TIP! Play basketball games with yourself during the season and before it. You may not always be able to find someone to play with you.

If you want to improve your game, concentrate on your strengths. Your talents might not make you a star, but when you make the most of your strengths, you might better contribute to your team. Realize your limitations, and roll with your talents.

TIP! Avoid errant passes by the use of hand signals. One things that’s frustrating in basketball is passing to a teammate while they try heading to the basket.

Watch how the pros play basketball. Try to go to games, watch televised games, or check out videos of the pros playing. You will notice great skills from different players that you can practice.

TIP! Good footwork remains a vital part of basketball. You always want to beat your opponent to the open spot.

Learn good passing by drilling often without dribbling. It is quite challenging to play the game without dribbling, but it does make sure you and your teammates make accurate passes. Work through the initial frustration and see how the challenge will improve your game in the long run.

TIP! Practice passing while not looking in the direction of the pass. This will easily confuse your opponents.

If you’re a jump shooter, don’t lift weights too often. You do need muscle conditioning and strength, but you can have too much when it comes to shooting field goals. Overdeveloped muscles could actually interfere with your score percentage.

TIP! To gain greater dribbling skill, always practice with the weaker hand as well as the more dominant one. Opponents are a lot easier to blow by when you can dribble with ease using both hands.

If you experience a basketball injury, don’t keep playing. It’s easy to be hurt when playing basketball. Trying to play through the pain could just cause more damage. If you have a very serious injury, talk to a doctor.

TIP! A good defensive strategy will keep your opponent on their toes. Force them into an uncomfortable zone.

Asking for feedback from coaches and teammates about your playing is important in order to become a stronger player. Is there something that you excel at? They may say you’re fast or that you share well. Develop your strengths even further and look for ways to improve your weaknesses.

TIP! To get a rebound of a free throw that one of your teammates is taking, you need to be sly with your feet. Guards will be attempting to stop you, so get around them.

If you want to correctly handle the ball, you need to know where to place your fingers. This will help prevent the ball from getting away from you while dribbling. Avoid putting your palm on the ball, too. You should try your best to only hold onto the ball with your fingertips when passing and shooting.

TIP! Work on getting the ball down the length of a full court with five or fewer dribbles during drills. You will need to learn how to push the basketball in front of you while making long strides.

Work on making your forearms and hands stronger in order to improve ball handling. Wrist curls are great for working wrist muscles and improving your dribbling. Making a goal isn’t just standing there as the ball miraculously comes to you and then shooting it at the basket. Good dribbling skills will help you always stay in movement.

TIP! Always attempt to remain low when you are playing defense. Staying low gives you a better chance to play the ball and helps you move more quickly.

This article has shown you that you can improve your basketball game through many methods. The more you contribute to your team, the better it will be for the team and the fans. Everyone has their part to play, from the team members to people who support the games by watching and cheering. As a basketball player, you need all the help that you can get. The tips in this article can help you become an invaluable member of your basketball team.