TIP! In order to help you improve your basketball acumen you should watch how the pros play. Watch some games on TV, view videos of professional games, and go to some games.

A great thing about basketball is the simplicity of being able to pick up the basics. You can pick up the basics in a few short minutes. But the finer points are what the game is all about, and if you would like to know more than check out this advice to get started.

TIP! Interested in tricking your opponents? Back passes can give your team the opportunity to score while the other team is still wondering what happened. To start, grab the ball using your good hand.

Bounce passes are extremely efficient when done properly. The bounce pass needs to reach the player at waist level. Bounce it 3/4 of the distance to the receiver. There are other variables to consider though.

TIP! If you get hurt during a basketball game, don’t try to play while in pain. This is a physically challenging game, so you may end up hurt much worse.

Watch how the pros play basketball. Watch pro games on TV, or attend games in person. By doing this, you will quickly find that players all have their unique subset of skills, allowing you the best chance to see what areas are the best fit for your personal game.

TIP! Practice your footwork and control the position of your feet at all times. If you step on the baseline, you will be out of bounds.

Try playing basketball games alone before and during the season. Even though basketball is usually played with teams, it is sometimes the case that there just isn’t anyone around to play with. It’s okay! You can still get a lot accomplished with solo games. Practice pivoting and free throw shooting. You can always do something.

TIP! Use deception by looking elsewhere when you make passes. You are able to confuse opponents with this technique.

To keep passes under control, make use of hand signals. 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 the signal is not used, then the pass should not be made to that player.

TIP! You need to practice dribbling with your weak hand in order to be a more effective player. Getting by an opponent should be a lot easier if you can dribble using both hands.

Ask fellow team members what they like about your skills on the court. Do you do something really good? It may be that you are quick on your feet or that you are always there to back them up. You can learn a lot about your skills by knowing how others see you on the court.

TIP! Make it your goal to dribble the ball across the entire court in under 5 dribbles. It isn’t impossible, it just takes practice.

Keep your eye on the ball. This will make you more aware of the court and you won’t be surprised when turnover potentials come up or quick passes. Also, watch for areas to open up so you can make an easy basket.

TIP! If you want to make a 2-3 zone into something special, have the guards remain put until the opposing team’s guard makes their way about ten feet in from mid-court. They should then trap the point guard.

Build your core strength and focus on your legwork when you train for basketball. A strong core allows you to be more balanced during games. Work your ab, back, hip and buttocks muscles. You will improve your speed and footwork if you jump rope like boxers do.

TIP! Until the moment you are prepared to shoot or pass, you must dribble constantly. You have few options remaining to you after you stop dribbling.

If you wish to get a free throw rebound from a teammate, you have to stay on your toes properly. The defender that’s below you will move towards you, so try to slip by them to obtain the ball. In this way you can get the rebound without a foul.

TIP! Control the ball at a level that is below your knees. In this way, opposing team members will have difficulty stealing the ball.

Hard dribbling helps avoid stolen balls. The ball returns more quickly to your hand when you do this, giving the opponents fewer opportunities to steal it from you. If you are being closely guarded, then halt your dribbling and quickly pass the ball to a teammate who is open.

TIP! For exercise, do a workout regimen that will enhance your skills and presence on the court. Sprinting will help you develop speed, while running long distances will help you develop great stamina.

A good way to stay defensive is to have a defensive stance. You can shuffle your feet to either side, or push with your opposing foot, so you will be ready and in position. Don’t forget not to cross your feet, and you won’t be easy to get around.

TIP! To become a much better basketball player, try speaking with teammates and learning what they do. Basketball is nothing if not a team sport.

To trap someone in a 2-3 zone, get your guards to wait for the point guard to get about 10 feet past midcourt. Then they need to get to the guard on point to trap him. Your forwards should sprint to cover the other players on the outside. Your forwards should easily be able to steal the pass that the point guard throws.

TIP! To keep your opponent on their toes, keep your dribbling steady and regular, then surprise them. Changing your pace quickly can take the other player by surprise and give you an advantage.

If you want to build the dexterity of your weaker hand, start using it for everyday tasks like shining your shoes or opening doors. If you can train yourself to be ambidextrous, you will gain complete control of that hand. This also can significantly help your basketball game.

TIP! Mix up different shots from all over the court when you practice shooting. Practice your grip and balance first.

Try practicing three pointers from the NBA range in order to be a more effective three point shooter. The standard line , high school and college lines are all going to be closer. If you’re able to get the shot from where the NBA shoots, then you can start working from a range further than the defense expects.

Stop Dribbling

TIP! When you shoot, do what you can to temper your nerves. Keep your eyes and thoughts focused on the basket.

Only stop dribbling if you want to shoot or pass. You do not have many options after you stop dribbling. If you decide not to shoot a basket or pass the ball on, you are only allowed to pivot on the heal that is furthest back. This causes you to be wide open to some double teaming by the other team and increase your chances of having the ball stolen.

TIP! Once you have possession of the basketball, know when to pass and when to take a shot. You don’t want to be the player that cost your team the game due to your selfishness.

Maybe you are now able to learn to play basketball after reading this. Or, maybe you have been playing ball since you were little. No matter what, the tips you’ve just read can help you increase your skills. Make use of this advice the next time you step onto the court.