Basketball begins as a new adventure for most. You explored passing, dribbling and shooting. After playing for awhile, you may feel you have learned all you need to know. The tips here are going to help you realize you can still learn.
You can easily focus on offense when learning to play basketball, however, you must really focus how playing defense. Basketball games are often won by great defensive play. Offense may score points but defense keeps the other team from scoring points that your team will have to match.
To improve your game, concentrate on your strong points. Your strengths might not make you a star player, but you’ll be contributing a lot to your team. Knowing what you excel at and then practicing that can help you become perfect at it!
Practice your layups a lot. Eighty percent of the shots taken in a game are layups. Practice running while dribbling, jumping and shooting as smoothly as you can. If you can do this right, you can master this shot.
Free Throws
There is a lot of pressure when shooting free throws. Training your body is important, but you also have to be mentally ready for the shot. You are more likely to make more successful free throws if you relax and focus on the basket.
Observing what the professionals do can be a great way to improve your game. Go to professional games in person and/or watch them online or on TV. You’ll be able to learn from the moves they make.
Passing quickly without dribbling is a great way to practice. Playing basketball without dribbling is very challenging, but your entire team will quickly improve their passing skills. Don’t get frustrated if it’s hard at first because it will get better over time.
Keep your eye on the ball. This will make you more aware of the court and you won’t be surprised when turnover potentials come up or quick passes. Keep your eyes open for areas that are open.
To hold the ball right, spread your fingers out. That will ensure that it doesn’t get away from you as you hold it. You should avoid having your palm touching the ball. Remember to maintain contact with the ball through your fingers only.
Understanding your opponent is a good way to shut him down on defense. Monitor scouting news and watch footage of other teams in action. See if you can determine each players strong and weak sides. Your defensive game will be a lot more effective after you get to know your opponent. One of the most important keys to being a solid defender is an understanding of your opponent.
If the opposing team is guarding you to much, you can try a pass between your legs. Bounce the ball very hard through your legs while stepping to the front or the back. When you’ve mastered this step, you will be at a great advantage.
In order to improve your weaker hand, make use of it for everyday things, such as brushing your teeth, eating out of a spoon, etc. You’ll find it becomes more controllable. Keeping your opponents on their toes is an important part of basketball.
You can improve your shooting skills by practicing with shots from different spots on the court. Become better and better by practicing your fast dribble then stopping abruptly to make a shot. Don’t look at the target until you are in the air. In this way, you can simulate the conditions of the game and become more accurate.
Your workout routine can help you do well in the game. Sprint running can help improve on-court speed, while distance running is sure to boost your stamina. Additionally, weightlifting and resistance training will help you develop the muscles needed for those long distance shots. The aggression and confidence you get from this can also assist you more than most things if you’re shooting.
With everything you learned here, you can do anything. Set goals and practice regularly if you want to hone your skills. Use the tips here when you are creating your strategy and you will see big improvements in your game.