If you’ve ever dreamed of being a great basketball player, you should be aware that it will take lots of practice and dedication. Do you really want to be a good basketball player? Well here are some great ways to develop those skills and learn new ones.
Learn the best way to make your free throws. This looks easy, but it is actually very hard to do. The following technique should be practiced often. To start off, hold the ball in front of you. Focus on the ball and visualize it going toward the goal. Bend your knees to control the arc of the ball.
Practice layups often. Layup shots make up nearly 80% of a game’s shots. Dribble the ball in front of you while taking large strides followed by a smooth shot. Practicing your running and jumping as a single motion will improve your technique faster than practicing them separately.
Don’t pump too much iron if you plan on being a jump shooter. Muscle strength is great for any position in basketball, you can have too much when it comes to perimeter play. Many guards in the pros have developed their arm muscles too big, which has really harmed their shooting percentage.
Footwork is the best way to find an opening shot. Getting a great position under the goal is the most important. Once you get into your position, you need to secure it. Footwork is the key to either of these.
Never turn away from the ball so that you can always be prepared for what’s coming. This will make you more aware of the court and you won’t be surprised when turnover potentials come up or quick passes. When your eyes are constantly assessing the game, you will be better able to make easy shots.
Pay attention closely to the shoulders if you’re starting to slump when you shoot. When your shoulders are not properly positioned, then it is almost impossible to perform at your best. One area of focus should be to keep your shoulders aligned straight toward the hoop. The shoulder that is dominant should be perfectly aligned with the hoop rim.
When you want consistently good free throws, repeat your routine. This could mean two dribbles before taking your free throw, bending your knees, or some other thing you do to get into a rhythm before shooting. If you make your routine consistent, your body will eventually know how to make the shot every time.
You need to constantly disrupt your opponents in order to be a great defensive player. Force them out of their comfort zone. When you are guarding, do so aggressively. Other players should not influence the plays you make. If you let them, they’ll totally take the control from you. Rather, you move first so that you interfere with their rhythm.
Practice drills where you strive to make it across the full court within 5 dribbles. It isn’t impossible, it just takes practice. In games, this drill will become useful when you have fast break opportunities.
One good way to play good defense is to stay in the defensive stance at all times. Shifting your weight back and forth between your feet will help you to stay in position. Always keep your feet from crossing, and you will make it hard for any opponent to get past.
Changing your pace is key to keeping the offense on their toes. Sprint towards the hoop then quickly plant your foot, then straighten up. Your defender is going to assume that you’re slowing your speed and will start straightening up, too. As hes does, plow forward and run by him.
Strength Training
Strength training can improve your game. You need both strength and endurance if you are going to excel. Basketball requires a lot of sprinting and jumping. When they become teens, try using weights to keep enhancing their exercises. Adult players must use strength training to prevent loss of mobility, speed, and power.
So, take the initiative and learn some new skills and start practicing and playing better today. As you continue to practice these tips, you will continue to see improvements in your game. If you work hard on your game, it’ll get better every day.