TIP! Learn the mechanics of a free throw. It looks simple to do, but it isn’t that easy.

All around the world, millions of people enjoy the sport of basketball. You can enjoy a good pickup game or the challenges of playing on a real team. Check out the helpful advice below for some great information on the sport of basketball.

TIP! Look forward when dribbling. If you have to look at the ball while dribbling, that means you need to practice more.

Learn how to maneuver a crossover if you have the ball fairly often. This technique passes the ball back and forth from the right hand to the left hand. Crossovers must be done quickly to keep defenders at bay. When done properly, crossover dribbling is a great way to quickly switch direction or move around the court in an efficient manner.

TIP! When it is not basketball season, keep in practice by shooting baskets and practicing your skills. While it’s a team sport, you may not be able to find others that will play.

Always work on your layups. Layups comprise approximately 80 percent of all shots. The best practice strategy is to go full tilt toward the hoop, then do a smooth jump shot. Perfecting this skill will enable you to get to the rim effortlessly during a game.

TIP! If you’re injured when playing basketball, don’t push through the pain. Basketball is very physical and there’s always a risk of injury.

Watch how the pros play basketball. Go to games, watch them on TV and you can also watch videos. When you find a player who has the skills that you want, then watch them and emulate.

TIP! Never turn away from the ball so that you can always be prepared for what’s coming. This provides court awareness and prevents you from unexpected turnovers or quick passes.

If you want to take jump shots, don’t build your arms up too large. Muscle is good, but you can have too much. Overdeveloped muscles could actually interfere with your score percentage.

TIP! To properly handle the ball, you have to spread your fingers out. The ball will not get away if you always keep your fingers spread when handling the ball.

Build hand signals so passes are more successful. Basketball passes can be really frustrating when shot wrong. Hand signals can be a great way to find out if a teammate will be able to receive your pass. If you don’t see a signal, try to find someone else to pass to.

TIP! When you’re trying to work out, you should build up your core strength while getting your footwork perfected. This allows your body to be in balance and be more explosive on the court.

Make sure your fingers are apart from one another when dribbling. That will ensure that it doesn’t get away from you as you hold it. Do not allow your palm to come in contact with the ball either. You should try your best to only hold onto the ball with your fingertips when passing and shooting.

TIP! Practice dribbling with your weaker hand. If you use both your hands to dribble, it is easier to control.

Study you opponent well to give yourself an edge. Watch games if you can and look at their tendencies. Pay attention to dominant hands. The more you understand what you are up against, the more likely you are to develop an effective strategy during games. The more knowledgeable a defender is, the stronger he is.

TIP! Perform drills in which you move the ball up the court in just five dribbles. This may seem like an impossible challenge, but it will increase your stride length and your speed.

Try practicing looking in the opposite direction when you pass. This should befuddle your opponent. The look will cause your guard to turn away. Practicing this pass can really help to give your team the winning edge.

TIP! To better your outdoor shooting skills, take about a hundred shots every day from various places on the court. If you wish to get even better at this, try dribbling and then stopping to make a quick shot.

In order to perfect your layup shooting technique practice, take off with your left foot if you shoot with your right hand and vice versa. Jump off your left foot when you shoot using your right hand. That will build your balance and help you stay in the right position.

TIP! Practice a variety of shots from different locations on the court. You need to practice your grip and balance.

Being a successful defensive player means upsetting and disrupting your opponent’s play. Focus on getting them out of the comfort zone. Be aggressive in the moves you execute. Don’t let them dictate the game. If you let them control the game, you will lose. Try making the initial move and interrupt their rhythm.

TIP! Build your team up at all times. Basketball teams can achieve greatness when the whole team blends cohesively.

Now you know how to better your game. With good knowledge and a little work, you can enjoy the game to the utmost. Begin playing and before you know it, you will be playing every day. Have fun and play basketball.