Many people derive a great deal of pleasure from the game of basketball. Although what’s really true is that many people still have lots to learn in order to help them truly enjoy this game even more. Keep reading to learn some great insights that everyone who plays basketball can use.
When you dribble, look forward, keeping your head up. You should never be looking at the basketball while dribbling. Bring the ball no matter where you go. Keep dribbling the ball even while you’re doing your errands. Don’t look while dribbling, because you won’t be able to see what’s going on.
Free Throw
Your mind plays as big a part in making a free throw as your actual body does. You’re able to train your whole body to do full free throw motions, but if you’re not mentally prepared, you will fail. Stay relaxed and just focus on the goal and you will increase your free throw rate.
Learn good passing by drilling often without dribbling. It is difficult playing without dribbling; however, it helps the team make better passes. Do not get frustrated if it it seems difficult at first, over time your team’s passes will become more accurate.
Need to dupe the opposition? The back pass is just the thing! To start, grab the ball using your good hand. The next step is pull the basketball behind the back. Pass the ball from behind your back by flicking your wrist in the direction you want the ball to go. This will confuse the other team into wondering where the ball went.
If you want to correctly handle the ball, you need to know where to place your fingers. This keeps it under control. Keep your palm off the ball, too. When passing and shooting the ball toward its target, the sole contact point should be fingers.
You can play a great defensive game if you know the opposition well. Follow the scouting reports and watch tapes of their games. Know which team members are right handed and which ones are left handed. This knowledge will help you play the best game possible. Smart defenders are good defenders.
If you find yourself unable to shoot well, consider your shoulders. When the shoulders are wrongly positioned, your shot is unlikely to succeed. Make sure your shoulders are always square towards the hoop. The shoulder that’s dominant should be in line with the rim.
High percentage free throw shooters typically have the same free throw routine prior to each and every shot. Always dribble the same way, or with the same movements. Following the same routine gives your body will maintain muscle memory for more consistent free throw shooting.
Dribble hard to avoid ball stealing. The ball bounces faster, giving the guard less time to steal. If you are being guarded closely, bring your dribbling to an end and pass the ball to another open team member.
In order to ensure that you are always ready to defend, keep your stance at all times. To move, just slide from back and forth with your feet, or use a foot to push off, keeping your stance all the time. Avoid getting your feet cross as this makes it much more difficult for the opponent to get by you.
You can enjoy both watching basketball and playing it. But, if you really want to make the most of the game, then it helps to know something about the game. Hopefully, the above advice has given you what you need to know to start doing great at this game.