TIP! Practice shooting free throws. There are usually a lot of distractions when you are shooting free throws so you need to concentrate.

The sport of basketball is so much more than a casual game here and there. It is a game that can be played in the neighborhood and even on your driveway. If shooting hoops is your thing, then you need to take some time out to read through the content that’s presented below.

TIP! Your balance is an important aspect to consider when you are shooting. Everyone has watched a pro player drift out of bounds while still making their shot, but this isn’t something to emulate.

It is vital that you learn to crossover the basketball while dribbling. Being able to dribble the ball with both hands and crossover between the two will make you a better player. This should be something you do quickly. Once you master the art of the crossover dribble, you will be able to change directions quicker.

TIP! Learn how to block out movement, noise and other distractions when taking a free throw. You are able to train your hands and legs to free throw well, but if you think you will fail, you will.

Practice your bounce pass. It needs to get to the player at their waist. Bounce the ball so that it lands near your teammate. There are, however, other factors that influence the pass.

TIP! Want to make the other team not know what’s going on? Try doing a back pass! Hold the basketball with your writing hand. Keep control of the ball while it is behind your back.

Observing what the professionals do can be a great way to improve your game. Go to a bunch of professional games in person, watch them on television, or just get online to search for basketball videos. Every player has a skill that allows him to succeed. Practice their moves to become better.

TIP! Play solo basketball in the months leading up to the season, as well as during the season itself. Many times you are unable to find people to play with.

If you want to take jump shots, don’t spend time pumping iron. Though muscle strength is great to have with any sport, it is very possible to be too buff for serious game play. Many guards in the pros have developed their arm muscles too big, which has really harmed their shooting percentage.

TIP! Understanding the opponent is key in beating a tough defense. Watch replays and follow scouting reports.

How would you like to trick the opposing team? You should try a back pass. Hold the basketball with your writing hand. Next, place the ball behind you. Then do a wrist flick in the same direction that you want the ball to end up. This should be helpful in tricking them team.

TIP! Quickness is a virtue in basketball. Gaining agility and speed will give you the upper hand when playing a game of basketball.

Play basketball against yourself even during the off-season. It is possible to enjoy this team sport even in the absence of your team. That is not a problem. You can still get a lot accomplished with solo games. You can practice free throws or pivot moves. There’s always some work to do.

TIP! Passing between the legs is something that helps when you have defense all over you. Practice this maneuver by bouncing the basketball between your legs while taking steps.

Seek advice from your teammates about how you play the game. Can they tell you what you’re really good at? It could be your speed, or it could be your back-up abilities. Find out what others think your natural abilities are, and be certain to keep developing those skills.

TIP! Practice passing while looking in other directions. This will easily confuse your opponents.

Video tape your games, and then review your technique later. Looking at tapes can help you identify strengths and weaknesses. Don’t be too critical, but do be honest. You can learn a lot by watching your plays instead of just trying to remember what you did.

TIP! In order to perfect your layup shooting technique practice, take off with your left foot if you shoot with your right hand and vice versa. Use your left foot when shooting with the right hand.

To gain greater dribbling skill, always practice with the weaker hand as well as the more dominant one. Using both hands to dribble makes you a more effective player, especially when you’re trying to get past your opponent. Bind your dominant hand so you will be forced to make use of your weaker side. You will get new dribbling skills with your weak hand.

TIP! Build up your forearms to become a better ball handler. For example, you can improve dribbling skills by adding wrist curls to your routine.

Good footwork will help you get rebounds off your teammates’ foul shots. Your defender will move towards you, so figure out how to slither past him and grab the ball. Doing this lets you get a rebound freely and not commit a foul in the process.

TIP! Shoot from NBA distances to see your three-point skills improve. College, as well as high school three-point lines are set at a shorter distance.

Be sure that your site is good. This means more than just being able to see well enough to play, but “seeing” the court deeply. You have to build your peripheral vision. If you’re looking around the whole court and not only at the ball, you’ll be able to look to the defense to see if pressure is coming and you can see who’s open.

TIP! Only cease dribbling when you are prepared to shoot or pass. The instant you stop the dribble, your options become limited.

When you have the chance, take charge. This helps get the ball for the team and allows another foul on the opponent. This may lower the other team’s morale, and it gives you a chance to take the offensive when play resumes.

TIP! Keep the action beneath your knees, if you can. This makes it more difficult for your opponents to steal the ball.

Varying your pace and direction keeps the offense off guard. As you are heading towards the net, straighten up and plant down your foot. Your defender is going to assume that you’re slowing your speed and will start straightening up, too. When they do, push ahead hard and outrun them.

TIP! Be certain to practice moves off the court that will truly help you on the court. Running, both sprints and long distance, can help your game.

Always attempt to remain low when you are playing defense. This allows you to jump faster and increases your reaction time should the person you’re covering do something. You must always utilize the proper defensive stance. If you need to block the opposing team’s shot, resume your stance as soon as you can.

TIP! Keep a rhythm while dribbling to throw your opponents off. A consistent dribbling broken up by a fast paced dribble can surprise your opponent and give you a major edge for a shot.

As the point guard approaches within 10 feet of the middle of the court, your guards should take action and create a 2-3 trap. Then they should run to the point guard and trap him. While this is going on your forwards can be sprinting to the players located on the wings. The point guard throws a pass that can be easily stolen by your forwards.

TIP! If you’re serious about basketball, seriously consider your diet. When you play on a regular basis, you have to load up on carbs to get energy, and you also need proteins and fat.

Dribble the ball below knee level. This will make it harder for opponents to get the ball away from you. It will be necessary to bend over, but you should be able to get down the court faster.

TIP! If you’re guarding a taller person, try to keep your body between that opponent and the person with the ball. This way, they won’t be open, so the ball cannot be passed to them.

To help ward off your opponent, practice using your other hand to help shield him away from you. This keeps your opponent from being able to steal the ball. Try to keep your arm around the same height as the apex of your dribble.

TIP! Always force your opponent’s action towards the sideline when you are on defense. Allowing your opponents to drive down the middle lets them have a wide array of possible plays.

Be certain to practice moves off the court that will truly help you on the court. For example, you can improve individual plays with sprinting. You can improve overall game performance and endurance with long distance running. Lifting weights can help you get more muscle. You will develop a confidence and attitude that you make you a better shooter.

TIP! Have a game plan you want to accomplish when beginning a workout routine. So many players practice but they never have a good game plan.

Whether it is a pick-up game, H.O.R.S.E. or a competition, becoming a better player will help you have more fun when you play basketball. Now that you’ve read all the way through this article, put it to good use! As you learn more, you play better.