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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.