TIP! Find out how to make free throw shots. This may seem like an easy task, but in reality, things prove otherwise.

One of the most popular games on earth is basketball. From playing at the park to watching the best in the sport play for a championship, Basketball is a sport that reaches a lot of people. Everyone who plays basketball for competition wants to win. Use these basketball tips to enhance your understanding and love for this incredible sport.

TIP! Always keep your head up when dribbling instead of focusing on the ball. If you are looking at the ball for any reason while dribbling, you have not put in enough practice.

It is tempting to concentrate just on offense when just staring out, but defensive practice is absolutely vital. In the end, it’s defense that consistently wins you games. If your team doesn’t have a good defense, you’re not going to make it far in a game.

TIP! Know your strengths and they’ll help you become a better player. 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.

Learn proper dribbling. Instead of using your palm to dribble focus on using your fingertips. This will give you better control of the basketball. Keep the ball by your side as you dribble instead of right in front your body. Always look upwards, never at the ground.

TIP! Practice layups often. Layups account for up to 80 percent of the shots taken during a game.

Dribble while your head is up and your eyes are forward. If you need to look at the ball while dribbling, you’ll need to practice more. Take the basketball to all the places that you go. You can practice dribbling when you have to walk to the store. By looking forward instead of at the basketball, you are able to see the happenings on the court.

TIP! Your mind plays as big a part in making a free throw as your actual body does. It’s easy to physically train for a free throw, yet mental preparation is also needed.

Learn to crossover if you get the ball often. This is when the ball is moved from hand to hand. This action most be quick to work out. Learn how to perform a crossover dribble will help you get down court quickly.

TIP! Frequent pass catching practice is important. When you practice, be sure to do drills that improve catching wild throws and making great passes.

In order to be a great shooter, good balance is key. Sometimes you’ll see professional players fall out of bounds while making a shot from afar, but this doesn’t work at all times. This kind of improvisation is the result of years of practice and loads of ability. By focusing on balance in your shot, you will develop the consistency needed to be a great scorer.

TIP! If you have a kid that wants to play basketball in high school, ensure they’re training core muscles in the right way. The concept encompasses the abdominal muscles, the hips and the lower back.

Frequently practice passing and catching the passes of others. When you practice, drill yourself to pay attention to errant throws and passes that are picture perfect. During a game, not all of your passes will hit the mark. Be a better teammate by anticipating a bad pass to make sure it doesn’t get into the opponents hands.

TIP! Never have your back to the ball so that you’re ready for anything in a basketball game. This will help you stay on top of quick changes in possession or plays attempted by your opponent.

If you’re a jump shooter, don’t lift weights too often. While muscle mass is good for any basketball position, perimeter play requires less than other positions. Overdeveloped muscles could actually interfere with your score percentage.

TIP! As you exercise to improve your game, it is important to work on your footwork and strength. Your body will retain balance and move quicker when you have strong core muscles.

Build your core strength and focus on your legwork when you train for basketball. When you have strong core muscles, your body will be better balanced and will move faster. Focus on your hip, abdomen, and back muscles. Your speed and footwork can be improved by jumping rope.

TIP! You should always be aware of the position of your feet and their actions. An errant toe to the baseline while holding the ball will result in an “out of bounds” call.

You must be able to box out other players when attempting to rebound free throws. You need to seek out a way to quickly slide around your opponent and be able to quickly react to the ball. By doing this, you can increase your chance to get the rebound despite starting in a disadvantageous position.

TIP! Consistent free throws require a consistent technique. Your shot could be off if you are inconsistent.

Try to get the basketball from one side of the court to the other in about five dribbles. Although this might seem tricky in the beginning, this can really help your game if you can master this skill. This translates to simple layups, fast breaks or just a general increase in your team’s numbers.

Peripheral Vision

TIP! You need to work on your forearms and your hands to handle the ball more efficiently. Wrist curls can work good if you wish to start handling the ball like you’re able to dribble in any situation.

Practice noticing what is in your peripheral vision. This means more than just being able to see well enough to play, but “seeing” the court deeply. Your peripheral vision needs to be as strong as possible. By seeing the court well, you can anticipate defensive moves as well as what all your teammates are doing. Good vision is vital to basketball success.

TIP! A good basketball drill to perform is to see if you can get the ball down the entire court in 5 or less dribbles. This might not seem possible, but if you can do it your speed and length will strengthen.

There are many things you can do to improve your moves. Many are simple, like learning a concept and practicing it over and over. Practice skills, run drills and play whenever you get the chance. Regardless of whether or not you play on a team or a playground, these tips will make your game better.