TIP! To improve your game, concentrate on your strong points. The best talent you have isn’t going to have you starring in every highlight reel, but having a good skill set can benefit your team.

When you’re trying to start to improve at basketball, then you’re going to have to start practicing. What is the use in practicing if you are practicing incorrectly. These tips should help you become a much better basketball player.

TIP! Watching the pros can help you pick up on certain skills for improving your game. Whether seeing an all-pro on YouTube, attending a game in person, or sitting on the couch with buddies to watch your local professional team, there are many chances to observe the best.

A good way to get your basketball game up to speed is to start trying to see how the pros are playing. You can do this by watching games in person and on television. Every player has skills that make them good, and you can work on the skills they use.

TIP! One of the keys to becoming a great basketball player is developing core muscles. The core muscles include the lower back, hips and abdonimals.

One way to get a good understanding of your game is to ask your fellow players about your ability. Are you really good at any one thing? Continue to develop the skills that play into your natural abilities. Improve the skills where you tend to be a bit weaker while maintaining your stronger skills.

TIP! Find out what your teammates like most about how you play? They will probably notice the things you do best. Perhaps you are great backup or fast on your feet.

One great thing to do if you wish to be prepared while playing is to make sure your back isn’t turned to the ball. You develop a good feel for the game around you, making it much easier to quickly react to your opponent. Always watch for areas opening up where you can go for a quick basket.

TIP! In order to be successful with layups, the foot that is opposite from shooting hand is the one you should take off from. If you use your right hand to shoot, use your left foot to take off.

Build your core strength and focus on your legwork when you train for basketball. If the core muscles are in good shape, you will feel lighter on your feet. Give your hips, buttocks, back and stomach a workout. Jump rope like a boxer to improve your fancy footwork.

TIP! Build a routine to improve your free throw game. If you aren’t consistent, you will find that your shooting is off.

Always be aware of your feet. Stepping your toe in a baseline with a ball in your grip will mean that you’re out of bounds. In addition, if you move your feet and you don’t dribble, you will be called for walking. Avoid lifting your feet when you are screening or in position for a charge or the foul will be called on you instead of your opponent.

TIP! Perform exercises to strengthen the muscles in your forearms and hands in order to maximize your ability to handle the ball. Wrist curls are great for working wrist muscles and improving your dribbling.

Have your games taped so you can play them back later and observe your court presence. Looking at tapes can help you identify strengths and weaknesses. Be honest when assessing, but avoid being overly critical. It can help you to see how you really are instead of what you imagine you are.

TIP! To rebound a free throw, you have to be quick. Slip around the defender moving your way and get the ball.

You must disrupt and upset the play of your opponent if you want to be successful as a defensive player. Force opposing players into an unfamiliar or unexpected position. Make assertive moves, keeping your opponent unsure of your next move. Do not let them call the shots. You should never let an opponent control what you do on the court. Instead, disrupt their rhythm by making the first move.

TIP! One good way to play good defense is to stay in the defensive stance at all times. Shuffle your feet in a side to side motion, then use your opposite foot to push off and give you good leverage.

You need to work on your forearms and your hands to handle the ball more efficiently. For example, you can improve dribbling skills by adding wrist curls to your routine. Don’t ever believe you’re going to be able to stand still, receive a pass and take a shot. Things rarely happen unless you are actually moving the basketball.

TIP! Basketball players can greatly benefit from strength training. You need both stamina and strength to be a good player.

The tips from this article will help you play better basketball, no matter your skill level. Trying even a single new thing can greatly enhance your abilities. You can improve your game in every way, just like professional.