TIP! To improve your game, concentrate on your strong points. Your talents might not make you a star, but when you make the most of your strengths, you might better contribute to your team.

No matter if you’re male or female, basketball can be played by anyone. All different types of people can enjoy an exciting game of basketball. Gather your friends and show them your new moves. Maybe you are wondering, what moves? Read on to find some great tips that will help you get in the game.

TIP! Work on being able to receive a pass. When you practice, drill yourself to pay attention to errant throws and passes that are picture perfect.

Many people only direct their attention to the offensive part of the game without realizing that defense is the key to winning. In the end, it’s defense that consistently wins you games. If your team doesn’t have a good defense, you’re not going to make it far in a game.

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

Dribbling the ball the right way needs to be done. Don’t use your palm, use your fingers. You’ll have a lot more control over the ball this way. Keep the ball by your side as you dribble instead of right in front your body. Look up and never down at the ground.

Free Throws

TIP! One great thing to do if you wish to be prepared while playing is to make sure your back isn’t turned to the ball. This helps you become aware of the court and lowers chances for surprises from turnovers and quick passes.

Free throws are as much mental as they are physical. Making the right physical motions is easier than having the right mind set. You are more likely to make more successful free throws if you relax and focus on the basket.

TIP! Study you opponent well to give yourself an edge. One great way to get a better understanding of your opponent is to take the time to watch film and get information from other players or scouts.

Frequent pass catching practice is important. While you are practicing, you should be sure to drill yourself on catching errant throws, as well as catching those perfect passes. When the game is going on, every pass isn’t going to make it to its target. Be a better teammate by anticipating a bad pass to make sure it doesn’t get into the opponents hands.

TIP! Speed is one of the best virtues when playing basketball. Always stay ahead of the opposition.

Play basketball against yourself even during the off-season. While it’s a team sport, you may not be able to find others that will play. That should not matter. There is still much you can accomplish playing alone. Practice free throws and work on pivot moves. There are always things that can be done.

TIP! Always be sure of where you’re placing your feet so you’re aware of what they’re doing. If you have the ball and you step outside the baseline, then you’re out of bounds.

Your fingers should always be spread out when handling the ball. You will have better luck holding onto the ball as well. Also, keep your palm off the ball. The only things that should touch the ball are your fingers, as you shoot or pass.

Jumping Rope

TIP! Passing between the legs is something that helps when you have defense all over you. Practice dribbling the ball between your legs.

When trying to improve your strength to have better basketball footwork, work on building up your core. By developing strong core muscles, you will be able to recover quickly and keep your balance. Your muscles in your buttocks, hips, abdomen, and back should be worked. Jumping rope is a favorite amongst professionals when practicing. By jumping rope, you improve speed and footwork.

TIP! Dribble harder if you want to avoid the ball being stolen. If you dribble hard, the ball will go back to your hand quickly and the offense will not be able to snatch it easily.

If you are shooting as well, pay attention to the position of your shoulders. If your shoulders aren’t properly positioned, your shot is not going to go in. Your shoulders should be facing the hoop. Then, make sure that your shooting side is lined up directly to the rim.

TIP! Work on getting the ball down the length of a full court with five or fewer dribbles during drills. This may seem to be too difficult at first, but once you’re able to do it you’ll have a lot of speed and stride length.

You should always be aware of the position of your feet and their actions. If you fall on a baseline, you will be out of bounds. In addition, if you move your feet and you don’t dribble, you will be called for walking. Moving your feet as you are setting a screen or pick usually results in you being called for a foul.

TIP! Stay low when you play defense. This allows you to jump or react quicker.

Watch tapes of yourself playing basketball to get a more objective perspective. Did you spot something that could be improved? Be honest with yourself, but avoid being too critical. Sometimes it’s beneficial to look at yourself the way you really look and not just like you think you look.

TIP! The best way to become a better player is to talk to your teammates and know what they are going to be doing. Each team has multiple players on it.

The best free throws come as a result of routine. That could include a set number of dribbles, knee-bends or some other type of movement. Following the same routine gives your body will maintain muscle memory for more consistent free throw shooting.

TIP! Practice a variety of shots from different locations on the court. You should first practice on balancing and your grip.

A routine can enable your free throw percentage to rise. If you don’t have one, your accuracy may suffer. The simplest way to get better at shooting free throws is through constant repetitive motions when shooting the ball. If you don’t do the routine right, then the shot won’t make it.

TIP! When playing defense, focus on forcing your opponent onto the sidelines. If you let someone shoot down the middle, you lose control.

You can now be confident in your ability to play basketball. Now you know some tips even your opponents don’t know. Just remember that games are supposed to be fun, so take it lightly. Of course, winning is always pretty fun as well!