Do you daydream of being the next Michael Jordan when you’re out on the basketball court? It takes years to be world-class players like they are, but you can improve your skills with hard work and dedication. Keep on reading and see how your dreams of playing ball can become reality in the near future.
Many people forget that defense is as important as offense during practice. Victory requires the ability to play defense. Offense is flashier, so it draws the attention of fans and journalists, but a team that can’t defend well won’t win any games.
Always dribble with your head up and looking forward. Lack of practice will manifest itself in looking down towards the ball when dribbling. Wherever you go, take your ball with you. Practice in your home and wherever you walk. If you are looking at the ball, you cannot see what is happening down the court in front of you.
Crossovers are very important if you’re a ball handler. Crossovers involve moving the ball from hand to hand. You must do it fast for best success. One done the right way, the crossover dribble can help you change directions and get down the court more efficiently.
Do not practice solely against zone defense. Though much of the game is sure to be played within a zone pattern, the opposition may try to go man-to-man in order to confuse you. If you haven’t prepared yourself for that, you might lose your game very quickly.
Jump shooters should not also be iron pumpers. Muscle strength is beneficial for playing any basketball position, but there is such a thing as too much. Some shooting guards that play professionally have such big arms that their field goal rate went down.
Play basketball against yourself even during the off-season. Sometimes you cannot find a team of people to play basketball with. That’s fine. There is much that can be accomplished when playing on your own. You can practice many different techniques, such as your free throw routine. You can always practice something.
It is best to take a break if you sustain an injury while playing. Basketball is challenging physical sport and you can get injured. You may injure yourself more if you continue to play with an injury. If an injury is serious, go to see a physician.
When playing basketball, it is important to always keep your eye on the ball. This will give you court awareness and keep you from being surprised by quick passes or turnover potentials. Make sure you also have the court in your line of vision as well, so you know when and where you can drive in for the score.
Understanding the opponent is a good way to win with defense. Watch tapes of their games and see how others move on the court. Also know which is their dominant and weak hands. Knowing an opponent’s dribbling, passing and shooting styles gives you a definite edge on defense. A knowledgeable defender is a strong defender.
Focus on your footwork and your core strength in your workouts. When you have strong core muscles, your body will be better balanced and will move faster. Don’t forget to also work out muscles in your back, buttocks, abdomen and hips. Jump rope like a boxer to improve your fancy footwork.
In order to play defense successfully, you must be able to disrupt the game of your opponent. Make them feel uncomfortable and to where they’re second guessing their next move. Be aggressive as you execute your moves. Don’t allow them to control the match. If you let them, they’ll totally take the control from you. Rather, you move first so that you interfere with their rhythm.
Now that you have read the above article, you have some tips for the next time you practice. Practice consistently to help build your confidence. Keep this excellent advice in mind as you show off your new skills on the court.