TIP! Put the emphasis on your strengths can help you to be a better basketball player. You may not be the star player, but by contributing the best way you can you will win more games.

Basketball holds universal appeal. That said, it isn’t easy to master. Though your rank can count slightly on your genetically determined athleticism, it has the potential to be fun for anyone. Read on so you are able to get some information that can help you improve your game, or understand it a bit better.

TIP! Get educated on the way to properly pass the ball on a bounce. Bounce passes need to be at waist level when received.

Make sure you are dribbling the right way. When dribbling the basketball, use your fingertips rather than the palm of your hand. This gives you the best ball control. You should be dribbling the ball at your side instead of in front of your body. The ball should always be dribbled at waist level. You should always look upwards instead of at the ground.

TIP! Practice your passes and catches frequently. Be sure to be able to catch off-target throws on top of good ones.

Keep practicing your layups. Layups sometimes wind up being 4 out of every 5 shots in basketball. When practicing it is important to run at full speed toward the goal, then jump and shoot smoothly. This type of technique will translate well into actual game situations.

TIP! Don’t dribble during your drills. Playing the game without the use of dribbling is a challenge, but it can help you and your team learn to make more precise passes.

Even professional basketball players spend a lot of time watching other people play basketball. Go to professional games in person and/or watch them online or on TV. Each player has their strengths and you can learn a lot from each one.

TIP! Never play through an injury on the court. This is a physically challenging game, so you may end up hurt much worse.

When avoiding errant passes, use hand signals. It is very frustrating when a teammate isn’t open for the perfect pass. A simple hand gesture can let your teammate know you’re ready for the pass. If the player does not flash the signal, then the player can avoid an errant pass.

TIP! Your fingers should always be spread out when handling the ball. This will help you keep a better grip on the ball.

If you become injured when playing basketball, stop immediately. Basketball is physically demanding and you can easily get hurt. If you try to keep playing, you can hurt yourself worse. Seek medical advice immediately if you have more than a minor muscle strain.

TIP! One of the best ways to play a strong defensive game is to know your opponent. Review tapes and keep up with scouting reports.

One way to get a good understanding of your game is to ask your fellow players about your ability. Do you have an area where you excel? It could be your speed, or it could be your back-up abilities. Improve the skills where you tend to be a bit weaker while maintaining your stronger skills.

TIP! If you’re shooting isn’t what you’d like it to be, make sure that your shoulders are in the correct position. When your shoulders are positioned improperly, you will never make the basket regardless of how good your abilities are.

As you exercise to improve your game, it is important to work on your footwork and strength. Your balance will improve if you strengthen your core. The most important muscle groups include your back, stomach, and pelvic region. Your speed and footwork can be improved by jumping rope.

TIP! Stay conscious of your foot motion and placement. Out of bounds will happen with even one toe over the baseline of the lined play area on the court.

You should always be aware of the position of your feet and their actions. Placing even a single toe atop the baseline while holding the ball will result in you being ruled out of bounds. Taking excessive steps while not dribbling results in a call of walking as well as a turnover. Also, when you’re moving your feet when a screen is being set, you can take a charge or pick to try and get a foul.

TIP! Have your games taped so you can play them back later and observe your court presence. This way, you have the opportunity to go through your play at a later time and see your mistakes.

Do you want to show off your skills? Utilizing the tips in this article can make you a better overall player. Get yourself pumped up and mentally psyched, then step onto the court and do it! You’ll soon realize you’re a much better player by using these tips.