Basketball is simply not something to just play while in gym. It is possible to play basketball at a sports center, the park, or even at home. If you are an aspiring basketball players, it would be a good idea to read this article to learn some new skills.
Make sure you are dribbling the right way. You need to use the tips of your fingers rather than your hand’s palm when you are dribbling. This helps you to control the ball better. Dribble on the sides of your body instead of directly before you, and bounce it waist level. Don’t look down, always look up.
Perfect your free throw. This may seem like an easy task, but in reality, things prove otherwise. Try using this technique in practicing. Begin by holding the ball directly in front of your face. Use visualization to imagine the goal occurring. Then repeat that when you take the shot.
When dribbling, focus on what’s in front of you by keeping your head up. If you are looking at the ball for any reason while dribbling, you have not put in enough practice. One of the best ways to improve your dribbling is to bring your ball along anytime you need to walk somewhere. Dribble while walking to the store. If you are staring at the ball, there is no way you can know what else is happening on the court.
Get educated on the way to properly pass the ball on a bounce. If done correctly, a well-executed bounce pass will reach the player in a way that allows them to move immediately with the ball. Bounce it 3/4 of the distance to the receiver. Many other factors will affect it, too.
Want to trick the other team? Try doing what is known as a back pass. If you wish to try this pass, get the ball in your dominant hand. Then you will want to pull the ball into position behind your back. Then you will use your wrist and flip it in the direction you want the ball to be going. It can be a dangerous maneuver that catches the other team off guard.
Before, during and after the season, play out games by yourself. Basketball is usually a team sport, but just because you can’t find others, doesn’t mean you have to just stop thinking about it. For concentration purposes, it can be good to practice on your own. You’ll still be able to get a lot done when playing solo. Practice pivoting and free throw shooting. You can always work on something.
Focus on your footwork and your core strength in your workouts. Your body will naturally balance well if you have strong core muscles. Your muscles in your buttocks, hips, abdomen, and back should be worked. Jump rope can be used to speed up your feet.
One thing to consider if your shooting percentage drops is that your shoulders may be inconsistent when you are shooting. You won’t be able to make a shot if your shoulders aren’t in the right position. Be sure shoulders always remain squared towards your hoop. Then, make sure that your shooting side is lined up directly to the rim.
Always be aware of where you have your feet and what you are going to do with them next. Stepping even over a baseline when you’re in possession of the ball will have you called out of bounds. If you take several steps while holding the ball, you could be called for traveling. In addition, a foul can be called against you if you move either foot while setting a screen, a pick or taking a charge.
When moving in for a layup, push off from your weaker foot and lead with your shooting hand. So, your left foot should be the one you take off from if you use your right hand to shoot. Your body will be better balanced and moving in the direction of the basket. Your body will also be kept between the defender and yourself.
Workout to increase flexibility and strength in your hands and forearms. Try doing some wrist curls as they are particularly effective in honing your dribble skills. Don’t believe you will be able to simply plant yourself someplace, receive the ball and sink a shot. Your ability to handle the ball will affect your success on the court.
Take charges whenever you have the opportunity. Taking a charge allows you a chance to earn a defensive stop, take the ball for your team, and sets up one more foul against the opponent. This can throw off the opposing team and mess up their rhythm.
Never break your defensive stance when playing ball. Stay in the right position by pushing off of your opposite foot. Always keep your feet from crossing, and you will make it hard for any opponent to get past.
No matter if you’re playing competitive basketball or just a friendly game of horse, improving your basketball skill-set can make the game much more enjoyable. Now that you have read these tips, it is time to take the next step and make use of them. The more you learn, the more you can enjoy playing and watching basketball.