TIP! Many people only direct their attention to the offensive part of the game without realizing that defense is the key to winning. Defense can make or break a basketball game.

Have you wanted to learn more about playing basketball, but have not known where to get good information? You’re not the first person that has felt this way! Lots of people want to play like the pro’s. This article is going to teach you some of the things that the pros know.

TIP! Learn how to throw a proper bounce pass. Bounce passes should not go above or below the receiving players waist.

When learning the game of basketball, it’s easy to get caught up in offensive play. But you should also give plenty of attention to defense. Victory requires the ability to play defense. Offense receives all the glory, but it is nothing without the best defense.

TIP! You need to practice more than defeating a zone defense. You can count on quite a bit of the game being played in zone; however, you should not be surprised if it becomes one-on-one coverage just for the sake of confusion.

Make sure you are looking forward and looking up as you’re dribbling. By focusing your sight on the ball, you cannot be fully aware of your surroundings. Bring the ball no matter where you go. On your way to the grocery store, practice your dribbling. Staring at the ball doesn’t allow you to watch the other players.

TIP! A great way to learn how to pass is by doing drills often with no dribbling. This is very hard to accomplish, but it forces you and your fellow players to work on accurate passing skills.

You may have better luck honing your passing skills if you forgo dribbling during practice. It is difficult playing without dribbling; however, it helps the team make better passes. Don’t get discouraged if it is hard initially’ because the gains you will make are sure to be worthwhile.

TIP! Perform skills, practice your ball handling and shoot free throws when you are practicing alone. You may not always be able to find someone to play with you.

Quickness is something that’s desired in basketball. If you want the advantage, you’ve got more quickly. You need to really drill to get to the point where you can play fast. Don’t play too fast and risk your chances. If you push too hard, your performance may be haphazard, and the game may get out of control.

TIP! If you’re injured when playing basketball, don’t push through the pain. The sport of basketball is very physical, which makes one susceptible to injury.

Do your free throw shooting the same way every time. For example, you might tug your ear, dribble three times, or flex your wrists. Keep it simple and consistent, and the routine will become a part of your muscle memory.

TIP! To properly handle the ball, you have to spread your fingers out. This will help prevent the ball from getting away from you while dribbling.

A consistent routine will help you to achieve great free throws. If you don’t have one, your accuracy may suffer. To better perfect free throw techniques, try using repetition via practicing one routine repeatedly. If you alter your routine then chances are the shot will not be good.

TIP! If you have someone who can tape your game, you can view the recording to see how well you performed on the court. Do you see anything you could do differently? Do not waste time criticizing yourself.

To be a good dribbler, and a more versatile player, you have to develop not only your dominant hand but your weaker side as well. Opponents are a lot easier to blow by when you can dribble with ease using both hands. Don’t allow yourself to use your dominant hand when practicing. Your weak hand will soon develop better dribbling skills.

TIP! Look away when you practice passing. This should befuddle your opponent.

To improve ball handling, consider focusing workouts on your forearms and hands. Wrist curls work well at helping you handle the ball. Never assume you can just stand somewhere, catch and then shoot. Good dribbling skills will help you always stay in movement.

TIP! If you want improve your free throws, you have to develop a routine. A consistent routine enables the shooter to have a perfect motion every time.

Dribbling hard keeps the ball from being stolen from you. This makes the ball come back to you faster so the people on defense aren’t able to steal it as easily. If you are being guarded closely, halt your dribble and pass to an open teammate.

TIP! The key to great defense is being a nuisance to the player you are guarding. Get them outside their comfort zone.

Always maintain a defensive stance when you are trying to properly defend the goal. Slide both feet side to side, or just push off using the opposite foot. Remember to never let your feet cross and you will be a difficult player to get around.

Strength Training

TIP! Only stop dribbling if you want to shoot or pass. You are limited once you cease dribbling.

Strength training can improve your game. In addition to strength, stamina is key in basketball. It can help young kids get the exercise they need. As they get older you can use weights to help enhance their performance. Adult players must use strength training to prevent loss of mobility, speed, and power.

TIP! Dribble the ball below knee level. This makes it more difficult for your opponents to steal the ball.

As the point guard approaches within 10 feet of the middle of the court, your guards should take action and create a 2-3 trap. At that point, both guards should move in for the trap. With the forwards blocking outside, you have a good shot at intercepting a bad pass. The guard on point should make a pass that can easily be stolen by the forwards.

TIP! Be sure you do the sort of off-court exercises that help you during games. Sprinting exercises can help you to become faster, while running for long distances can assist you in making it through the whole game.

Never stop your dribble unless you are going to shoot or pass the ball. You have few options remaining to you after you stop dribbling. If you decide not to shoot or pass, all you can do is pivot on your rear foot. The chances of the ball being stolen is high, and you might be double teamed as well.

TIP! Keep a rhythm while dribbling to throw your opponents off. Dribble consistently, then break it up by dribbling fast.

Maybe you didn’t know that much about the details of the sport despite having a strong love for the game. This article can increase your enjoyment while watching the game and give you some guidelines if you decide to start playing. Follow this helpful advice to get started playing basketball.