TIP! Practice shooting free throws. This looks easy, but it is actually very hard to do.

In order to succeed at basketball and attain your goals, you must be a good practice player. However, practice is futile when you’re not doing it correctly to begin with. The following article offers helpful advice to get you to improve your practice habits.

Bounce Pass

TIP! Bounce passes are important in the game of basketball. Proper bounce passes ought to hit the recipient at the level of their waist.

It is important to know the right way to throw a bounce pass. A useful bounce pass will hit the receiving player at waist level. Aim for a firm bounce pass that hits the ground around 3/4 of the distance between you and the intended player. It does depend on a variety of other factors, however.

TIP! Make sure to practice catching passes. When you practice, mix it up so that you can catch perfect passes and errant throws.

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? It may be that you are quick on your feet or that you are always there to back them up. Find out what others perceive as your natural gifts and build upon those more completely.

TIP! Don’t bulk up if you want to be good as a jump shooter. Muscle strength is great for any position in basketball, you can have too much when it comes to perimeter play.

A great way you can prepare for what happens on the basketball court is to avoid having your back to the ball. Always knowing where the ball is will make sure that you are ready if it quickly comes your way. Also, watch for areas to open up so you can make an easy basket.

TIP! Quickness is a virtue in basketball. Try to outplay your opponents by being fast to win the game.

One thing to consider if your shooting percentage drops is that your shoulders may be inconsistent when you are shooting. If your shoulders aren’t correct, you may not be able to make the shots. Make sure your shoulders are always square towards the hoop. The dominant shoulder needs to be lined up with the rim.

TIP! When you’re practicing passing, try to look the other way. This will easily confuse your opponents.

Always be aware of where you have your feet and what you are going to do with them next. This can help you avoid going out of bounds or making a bad pass. The ball will be turned over on a walking call if too many steps are taken with no dribble action. Also, moving either foot when trying to set a screen, pick or take a charge results in a foul call.

TIP! In order to become better at dribbling the ball you should learn how to practice using your weak hand. When you are ambidextrous, you’ll be a better player.

Practicing with your weak hand will help to make you a better dribbler. By being able to easily dribble with two hands rather than one, you have a huge advantage over your defenders. Tie your strong hand to the rear of your back to ensure you only use your weaker hand. Eventually, your weak hand will be trained to dribble properly.

TIP! Dribble hard if you don’t want the ball taken from you. This is because the ball returns to you hand faster, so the opposing team has less of a chance to get it.

A good defensive strategy will keep your opponent on their toes. Take them out of their own comfort zone. Execute your moves with aggression. Do not let them choose the plays to make. This will give your opponent the advantage. Rather, move first; attack their rhythm.

TIP! A key play on defense is to draw a charge. This strategy can result in your opponent taking a foul and your team getting a defensive stop and taking possession of the ball.

Be certain you are able to see well. Vision is an integral part of making shots and catching passes. Peripheral vision is important during game play. If you view the entire game without focusing on the ball, you’ll see defensive pressure advance, along with open teammates.

TIP! Mix things up offensively to keep the other team’s defense off-balance. Sprint towards the hoop then quickly plant your foot, then straighten up.

Whether you play basketball all the time or just once and awhile, the above tips will be of help. Use a single tip at a time and incorporate it into your game play. You will become a better passer, rebounder and shooter.