Basketball is one of the most popular sports around the world. Whether you are seeking to make basketball your life focus or you simply enjoy a pickup game with some buddies, it’s easy to get started with the basics. Keep reading for some valuable information about this sport.
Learn how to maneuver a crossover if you have the ball fairly often. This term refers to switching the hand you use. Your crossovers should be fast, which is why it is important to practice them. Once you master the art of the crossover dribble, you will be able to change directions quicker.
You should often work on your layups. You should expect layups to represent about 80% of all the shots you take in a game. It’s critical to practice running towards the basket at full speed and following up with a good jump and smooth shot. If you can do this right, you can master this shot.
A great way to hone your own basketball abilities is to watch the pros. Go to games, watch them on TV and you can also watch videos. You’ll see that every great player has specific skills that cause them to be great and you have the opportunity to practice what you’re watching them do.
Don’t pump a lot of iron if you wish to become a jump shooter. Muscle strength can be great for basketball players, but it is actually possible to have excessive amounts for playing on the perimeter. Many guards in the pros have developed their arm muscles too big, which has really harmed their shooting percentage.
Prior to basketball season, and even during it, you can play solo games. It is possible to enjoy this team sport even in the absence of your team. This is perfectly acceptable. It is possible to get a lot done even when playing alone. You can work on pivots and free throws. You don’t need other players to work on your skills.
Your fingers should always be spread out when handling the ball. That will ensure that it doesn’t get away from you as you hold it. Don’t let your palm touch the ball either. You should try your best to only hold onto the ball with your fingertips when passing and shooting.
Pay attention closely to the shoulders if you’re starting to slump when you shoot. If your shoulders are in a bad position, no matter how good you are, you won’t make the shot. Keep your shoulders squared with the basket at all times. The dominant shoulder must be perfectly aligned with the rim.
Have your games taped so you can play them back later and observe your court presence. Can you see chances that you missed or ways that you could have done better? Be honest with yourself but don’t be too harsh. Sometimes you think of yourself as something you are not.
Create and stick to a routine each time you prepare to shoot a free throw. Perhaps you will dribble twice, follow up by bending your knees, pulling your earlobe or performing some other ritualistic action for good luck. Having a consistent routine is ideal, and that helps train your body to know how to be in the proper position every time you shoot the free throw.
Passing the ball through your legs is a useful maneuver if the opposing team is right on top of you. Practice dribbling the ball between your legs. When you’ve mastered this step, you will be at a great advantage.
Never pass up a charging opportunity. This strategy can result in your opponent taking a foul and your team getting a defensive stop and taking possession of the ball. Perfecting this play can really give you an advantage on the court.
In order to help develop your non-dominant hand, you should use that hand only when trying to open things, and also when brushing your teeth. If you are able to become more dexterous in terms of your weaker hand in general life, you’re going to have better control of it. This will have a positive impact on your basketball game, too.
Hopefully you have a better understanding of what it takes to play basketball. It’s not that hard, but it requires a bit of work and proper knowledge. Once you begin playing basketball, you will probably want to play often. Get out on the court and have fun.