Even the greatest basketball players alive do not know absolutely everything there is to know about the game. Basketball constantly changes, so learning all about it will help you keep up. Do you want to dominate your opponents? The following article will give you some great advice to improve your game.
It is easy to be focused on offense when you are learning how to play basketball, but you really should focus your practice on defense. Many times, defense actually wins the game. Offense is often what gets the glory, but most winning basketball teams play great defense.
If you want to improve your game, play up your strengths. Your best talent may not make you the star of every game, but learning to play your best angle will help you contribute more to the team. Find you best position and then refine it until you are unbeatable.
Want to trick the other team? Try using a back pass! To do a back pass, begin by grasping the basketball using your dominant hand. Then, move the ball so it is behind your back. Lastly, flick the wrist in the direction you want the ball to go. It can be a dangerous maneuver that catches the other team off guard.
Pay close attention to your shoulders if you’ve suddenly developed a shooting slump. You won’t be able to make a shot if your shoulders aren’t in the right position. Be sure to keep the shoulders squared up to the hoop. The dominant shoulder needs to be aligned correctly with the rim.
Be aware of your own actions and the position of your feet. Stepping even a toe on the baseline with the ball in your hands means you are out of bounds. If you travel without dribbling, you’re going to get yourself into a turnover situation. A foul will result if you try to take a charge or set a pick and your feet are moving.
Look away when you practice passing. This trick can be used successfully to confuse defenders. When it’s done properly, it will cause the opponents to go to the wrong area so that you can pass to someone that has a good look at a basket before shooting. It’s a great play if done properly.
If you want to dribble the basketball better, you need to practice dribbling with your weaker hand. If you’re using both hands to dribble the ball well then you can get by an opponent easily. Tie the main hand you use behind your back so that you have to use the weak hand. Eventually, your weak hand will be able to dribble well.
The key to great defense is being a nuisance to the player you are guarding. Force them to leave their comfort zone. Make aggressive plays. Don’t let them choose what plays to make. If you do so, then your rivals have the control. Try making the initial move and interrupt their rhythm.
Good footwork will help you get rebounds off your teammates’ foul shots. As you see the defender moving in, quickly slip around to grab the ball. In this way you can get the rebound without a foul.
Whenever possible, take advantage of an attack. A charge leads to a turnover by the opposing team and gives you the ball back. This does great harm to an opponent’s psyche, and is a truly powerful play.
Hopefully you now feel more confident about taking the court after reading these helpful tips. You need all the information you can get to get and stay on top. Practice daily and continue learning. Keep these tips in mind and take your skills to a whole new level.