It is impossible to deny the immense appeal basketball has had for countless individuals the world over. Unfortunately, there are still many people who do not understand basketball well enough to be either a skilled player or an informed spectator. Keep reading for some terrific information that can solve both of those problems.
It is important to focus on both offense and defense when learning to play basketball. Defense is how you win a basketball game. Offense gets more attention, but the team is going to lose without a strong defense.
If you need to improve your basketball shooting ability, practice as if you were really in a game. Rather than taking your time to throw the perfect shot, act as if there are defensive players around you, trying to distract you and take away the ball. This will help you shoot better under pressure and make the shots that count.
When you’re dribbling the ball, you should avoid looking down at the ball. You should be able to dribble without staring at the ball. If you can dribble without seeing the ball, you’ll be able to keep your eyes on the rest of the game. This will help you to know who is open for a pass or if you have a chance to take a shot.
Practice your free throws as often as you can. Free throws in basketball can turn the tide of a game. They are your opportunity to score points with clear views of the basket. You should aim to land at least 80% of the free throws you take. Great free throw shooters can top 90%.
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. Some passes may be too high, too low or off target, so you should practice receiving passes often. By learning to catch errant passes, you will do your team a great favor.
Work on flexibility. Flexibility is very important during basketball. This is because you may have to stretch to grab a ball that is in the air. Additionally, increased flexibility helps protect your tendons and joints from the damage caused during this fast playing sport. Do flexibility exercises often and always stretch before beginning any game.
Keeping calm and reacting maturely to getting beat is as important to your game as anything else. If your opponent has played harder and has out-hustled you, don’t get upset or stressed out, as your game will only suffer. Instead, think about how to match the intensity of your opponent. Beat them at their own game.
In the off season, it is important to stay in shape so you can be at your best when the games begin again. Formulate a few goals, but make sure they are goals that you can actually reach. For example, jogging may be a part of your routine. Start slow and then increase your time as your endurance goes up. You are more likely to stick with your program this way.
Learn something about basketball every day. Even if it’s the off-season and there’s nowhere to play, you can still improve your game. Read up on tips via books and websites or watch archived games to see what your favorite pro players can teach you. You may be surprised how much rubs off the next time you’re on the court.
Stay conscious of your foot motion and placement. Stepping your toe in a baseline with a ball in your grip will mean that you’re out of bounds. Going too many steps with no dribbling is a waking call and turnover situation. Do not move your feet when attempting to set up a screen, a foul can be called.
Always know what spots on the court players are good at scoring from. You want to know this about yourself so you can make high percentage shots. You want to know this about teammates so you can pass the ball to them when they are in a killspot and open. When possible, know this about opponents in order to defend them better.
Basketball is a sport that is loved by folks far and wide, due in large part to its fast pace and thrilling action. The best way to really appreciate basketball, however, is to familiarize yourself completely with its nuances. The article above should serve as a useful resource for just about anyone.