You probably felt like you entered an alternate universe the first time you played basketball. You were finding your way around shooting, dribbling and passing. Today, you are probably a lot more confident. The following article will show you that you still have much to learn.
Practice shooting free throws. It looks simple to do, but it isn’t that easy. Make sure that you’re applying the following technique when practicing. Place the ball right in line with your face. Concentrate on the basket and visualize the basketball going in. Then, shoot the ball using the trajectory you pictured.
If you hold the ball a lot, you have to learn crossovers. A crossover happens when you switch hands the ball is in. The move must be done quickly if it is going to work. One done the right way, the crossover dribble can help you change directions and get down the court more efficiently.
Improving your balance means improving your shots. Everyone has watched a pro player drift out of bounds while still making their shot, but this isn’t something to emulate. They have just improvised, is all. You need to maintain good balance while shooting, which is sure to produce greater consistency.
There is a lot of pressure when shooting free throws. It’s easy to physically train for a free throw, yet mental preparation is also needed. Relax and focus on the net, and you’ll be able to make more.
Work on pass catches. Try to catch all of the passes that are thrown to you. This will help to improve your game when it gets intense. Therefore, learn how to catch any type of pass so that you can help lead your team to victory.
Never play through an injury when playing basketball. Basketball is physically demanding, and injuries are relatively common. Trying to be tough so you can keep going, even when you’re just a little uncomfortable, can make an injury worse. Anytime you have a serious injury, you should seek medical attention.
Be aware of what your feet are doing and where they are. You will be called out of bounds if even one toe is touching the baseline as you hold the ball. Taking too many steps without dribbling means a walking call and another turnover situation. Moving either of your feet when setting a pick, screen, or even take a charge will result in a foul.
Have someone taper your games and then watch it to see how you look on the court. You may see things differently as you observe the game and notice things you missed in the game. You can use this information to improve your game. The reality of your play is often very different from your perception.
Free Throw
To become a reliable free throw shooter, always go through the same routine before each shot. This can include the number of times you dribble, how you position your feet, or anything else. Following the same routine gives your body will maintain muscle memory for more consistent free throw shooting.
Making a pass from between your legs is sometimes a good option when the opposing team is right on top of you. This can be practiced by dribbling the ball as hard as you can between the legs while you step in either direction. Once you get the move down, you can use it to gain a tactical advantage.
To help you shoot better free throws you need to come up with a consistent routine. If you stay inconsistent, you miss a shot. The simplest way to get better at shooting free throws is through constant repetitive motions when shooting the ball. If you don’t do the routine right, then the shot won’t make it.
To get a rebound of a free throw that one of your teammates is taking, you need to be sly with your feet. The person defending the position down-court from you will be coming at you, so you need to find any way you can to slide around him that gets you to the ball. This allows you to secure the rebound without finding yourself penalized.
There’s always room for improvement in basketball. Put some goals into play and practice all that you can. Using these tips will allow you to become an amazing player.