TIP! Work on catching passes frequently. When you practice, drill yourself to pay attention to errant throws and passes that are picture perfect.

Basketball is a game invented by Dr. He invented the game in 1891. Basketball has become a hugely popular sport since then. Basketball has made many celebrities out of its players, from Shaq, to Magic Johnson. Many celebrities have come out of basketball. If you would like to join their league, then now is the time to up your game skills.

TIP! If you want to take jump shots, don’t build your arms up too large. Perimeter players don’t need the muscle strength that is necessary for other team members.

You have to know how to bounce pass properly. Executed properly, a bounce pass will connect with the receiving player at the waist. The ideal bounce pass should land about 3/4 of the way between you and the receiver. Of course, there are factors that should be taken into consideration when passing using the bouncing technique.

Free Throw

TIP! Always be sure of where you’re placing your feet so you’re aware of what they’re doing. Stepping your toe in a baseline with a ball in your grip will mean that you’re out of bounds.

Making a free throw takes mental concentration as well as physical prowess. You are able to train your hands and legs to free throw well, but if you think you will fail, you will. Relax yourself and focus on the hoop.

TIP! If the opposing team is guarding you to much, you can try a pass between your legs. Bounce the ball very hard through your legs while stepping to the front or the back.

Watch the pro’s play if you want to improve your game. Attend as many professional games as you can, watch the pros on TV, or watch video of professionals. Watch great players to learn the specific skills that make them exceptional.

TIP! Practice passing while looking another way. This throws your opponents off.

Work on pass catches. While you are practicing, you should be sure to drill yourself on catching errant throws, as well as catching those perfect passes. When the game is going on, every pass isn’t going to make it to its target. Learning how to catch these errant passes will put you at an advantage.

TIP! Make layups count by taking off with the foot that is opposite to your shooting hand. This means that when you’re shooting from your right hand you have to use your left foot to take off.

Play games against yourself in and out of season. These skills all help with muscle memory so you know just what to do when you’re playing in a game. That’s OK! Solo games also help. Practice pivoting or you can practice doing free throws. There is always something to practice.

TIP! The key to great defense is being a nuisance to the player you are guarding. Don’t let them get comfortable.

In order to get a good shot, good footwork is essential when posting up. Focus on positioning yourself more quickly than the opposing player is just as important as having someone beneath the hoop. After grabbing the position, you need to hold the area. Strong footwork is key.

TIP! Build up your forearms to become a better ball handler. Wrist curls are especially effective at making you better able to handle a basketball like you could dribble sleepwalking.

If you’re injured in a basketball game, don’t attempt to play while in pain. Basketball is very challenging physically, and this can cause further serious injury. Trying to continue playing even if you’ve got discomfort can make the injury worse. See a doctor if the injury is serious enough.

TIP! Try to get the basketball from one side of the court to the other in about five dribbles. This may seem like an impossible challenge, but it will increase your stride length and your speed.

You never want to have your back to the ball if you can help it. That will keep you aware, so you don’t get surprised by turnovers or quick passes. Also, watch for areas to open up so you can make an easy basket.

TIP! Changing up your pace is something you have to do to make sure the offense is paying attention. When running toward the hoop, plant your leading foot and start to straighten up.

To hold the ball right, spread your fingers out. You will have better luck holding onto the ball as well. Don’t let your palm touch the ball either. You should try your best to only hold onto the ball with your fingertips when passing and shooting.

TIP! When you dribble while playing basketball, focus on bending your knees. When you stand straight up, you’ll find that the ball is harder to control and the ball will be a lot easier for an opponent to steal.

Where are your feet? Stepping even a toe on the baseline with the ball in your hands means you are out of bounds. Taking too many steps without dribbling means a walking call and another turnover situation. A foul will result if you try to take a charge or set a pick and your feet are moving.

TIP! Don’t cease dribbling until you get ready to shoot or pass. If you stop, you limit your options.

Video tape your games, and then review your technique later. You can see where you can improve and what plays you missed. Don’t get yourself down about your performance, but stay honest with yourself concerning where your game needs some work. Sometimes, it helps a lot to see yourself as you really are and not as just you imagine yourself to be.

TIP! Practice your dribbling skills while shifting your momentum to alternate sides. During a game, you’ll be dribbling in all kinds of situations.

Regulation basketball requires a hoop that is ten feet from the ground, a basketball court just under a hundred yards, and two teams of five players each. A thorough understanding is critical in order to play with skill. This article has provided you with some great tips, and you need to keep practicing in order to master them.