TIP! Free throw practice is vitally important. There are usually a lot of distractions when you are shooting free throws so you need to concentrate.

It’s no secret why basketball is so popular: the pace is fast, causing excitement. You must know the basics in order to jump onto the court and play. The tips below will help you master your technique.

TIP! One way to help improve your overall basketball skills is to spend some time watching what the pros do. Go to actual games or watch on TV.

Learn how to hit a free throw shot. The execution of a free throw is not as simple as it may appear. Use this technique to better your game. Begin by holding the ball directly in front of your face. Your eyes should be on the goal. You should be thinking about the ball going in the hoop. Then, use the trajectory you just visualized and shoot the ball.

TIP! Work on pass catches. When you practice, drill yourself to pay attention to errant throws and passes that are picture perfect.

Get educated on the way to properly pass the ball on a bounce. Bounce passes should not go above or below the receiving players waist. Letting the ball bounce close to the other person will help the accuracy of your pass. There are other things to keep in mind, though.

TIP! Don’t pump too much iron if you plan on being a jump shooter. Although it’s true that strong muscles are beneficial, additional bulk can impede your ability to play effectively along the perimeter.

When it is not basketball season, keep in practice by shooting baskets and practicing your skills. While basketball is a team sport, sometimes you just can’t find others to play with. That is okay. You’ll still be able to get a lot done when playing solo. Practice pivoting or you can practice doing free throws. You don’t need other players to work on your skills.

Strong Core

TIP! Children who aspire to become great basketball players in high school must engage in physical fitness activities that focus on the core muscles. This includes their abs, lower back, and hips.

Basketball players need to build strong core muscles. Core muscles include the hips, abs, and lower back. The core is what holds the body in balance and allows the limbs to work well. A strong core helps the legs move better, like jumping higher and running faster.

TIP! Try using hand signals to prevent passes in error. Passing is tough, especially if you and your teammate are not in sync with one another.

If you’re injured when playing basketball, don’t push through the pain. Basketball is very physical and there’s always a risk of injury. Trying to play while injured will just make your situation worse. See a doctor if the injury is serious enough.

TIP! In order to get a good shot, good footwork is essential when posting up. You always want to beat your opponent to the open spot.

Keeping your fingers spread wide is important for holding onto the ball. This gives you better control of the ball. Additionally, the palm of your hand should not come into contact with the ball. You should only use your fingers to touch the ball when passing or shooting.

TIP! Understanding the opponent is key in beating a tough defense. Follow the scouting reports and watch tapes of their games.

Being able to anticipate your opponent is a key skill. One great way to get a better understanding of your opponent is to take the time to watch film and get information from other players or scouts. For example, you might look to see which players favor their left side and which have dominant right hands. Having a good understanding about your opponent strengths and weaknesses allows you to focus on how to better stop him. Understanding the intricacies of the game will make you a better player.

TIP! Be aware of your own actions and the position of your feet. You want to make sure you don’t step over the bounds by even a teeny bit.

To get better at shooting free throws, make sure to keep a consistent pre-shot routine. That could include a set number of dribbles, knee-bends or some other type of movement. Following the same routine gives your body will maintain muscle memory for more consistent free throw shooting.

TIP! To avoid turning the ball over to the other team, make sure that you’re dribbling hard. The harder you dribble, the faster the ball will return to the cup of you hand.

Learn how to dribble and pass between your legs in case you are being guarded very tightly. Practice this maneuver by bouncing the basketball between your legs while taking steps. If you manage to master this, you will have a tremendous advantage during games.

TIP! Perform drills in which you move the ball up the court in just five dribbles. This may be difficult in the beginning, but if you manage it, you’ll be a force to be reckoned with.

Practice looking the other way when passing. You are able to confuse opponents with this technique. If you can pull it off, it’s effective to draw your opponents away from the shooter. That way the shooter gets a great look before shooting. It can be a really powerful move in the game.

Free Throws

TIP! Make sure that you are exercising properly for basketball. Work on sprints to make you faster and build your stamina.

Consistent free throws require a consistent technique. If you’re consistent, your shots will be too. You can shoot better free throws by making sure you use the same exact routine every time, and of course practice. You are likely to miss your shot if you’re not settled into your routine.

TIP! You need to practice many types of shots on the basketball court. Begin with practicing your grip and balance.

You need to work on your forearms and your hands to handle the ball more efficiently. Do some wrist curls as much as possible and your dribbling should get better. Good playing is not only instinctive, it takes hard work and discipline. It is essential to move the ball around in order to succeed.

TIP! If you are aware of a weakness in one of your opponent’s hands, make them work with that side. If your opponent favors their right side, step to them using your left foot.

Basketball is a sport that is enjoyed around the globe. To play the game well, and build your self-confidence, takes hard work and commitment. Use what you’ve learned here to become the basketball player you want to be.