Basketball is all the rage in this world. That said, it isn’t easy to master. While you must have some natural talent to be a star, you can have fun no matter what your skill set is. The following tips will help you learn more about the sport in general.
Make sure you spend your time focusing on your strengths. You can contribute to the team by consolidating your best skills, even if these skills do not make you one of the star players. Ask others to help you identify your strengths and practice until you fully master these skills.
Be sure to get lots of practice on layups. You should expect layups to represent about 80% of all the shots you take in a game. Whenever you practice, approach the goal full speed, jump and take a smooth shot. That technique of running and jumping helps you get ready for an actual game.
Free throws are as much mental as they are physical, like other parts of the game. You are able to train your hands and legs to free throw well, but if you think you will fail, you will. Relax and concentrate on your basket to increase your free throws.
Play basketball against yourself even during the off-season. It is possible to enjoy this team sport even in the absence of your team. That’s fine. You’ll still be able to get a lot done when playing solo. Work on your pivot moves or practice your free throws. There is no shortage of things you can do.
Videotape your games to see what you do right and wrong. Are you able to see missed opportunities or ways in which you could have improved? It is important that your assessment is an honest one, but isn’t overly critical. Seeing yourself realistically can be a great way to make changes in a positive direction.
If an opponent is staying with you, try passing the ball between your legs. Bounce the ball very hard through your legs while stepping to the front or the back. If this move is something you master, you’ll have an advantage when you go out to play a game.
A consistent routine will help you to achieve great free throws. Inconsistent shooting will lead to inconsistent results. Repetition is an excellent way to improve your ability to make each free throw. Stick with a routine until you can perfect it. You’ll miss if you don’t have a good routine down.
If an opponent charges at you, let him run into you. When you do that, you can earn defensive stops, get the ball back, and set up foul shots against the other team. This is play that’s powerful.
If you want to stay in a good defensive position, simply avoid breaking out of your defensive stance. Slide your feet to and fro or use your opposing foot to push off to maintain your position. Don’t ever allow your feet to cross to become a hard player to pass.
If you want to put pressure on the offense, you need to change the pace of things. Try to block the net by planting your foot hard. The offense will believe that you’re stopping or slowing down and may follow in your steps. After that, push hard in a forward motion and scoot by them.
Are you ready to show everyone what you’ve got? Well, perhaps you would like to practice first. Use these tips to take your game to a whole new level. By practicing these pointers, you are sure to see improvement much sooner than later.