TIP! It’s simple to want to work on offense when you’re getting into basketball, but it’s smarter to think about defense practice too. Basketball games are won more often by defense than offense.

Basketball is an old sport, originating with Dr. James Naismith, way back in 1891. Since its invention, it has became a very popular sport. There were many great basketball players. J to Magic Johnson, it has made celebrities out of its best players. To learn from the experts, keep reading.

TIP! Correct dribbling is key. Don’t use your palm, use your fingers.

While focusing on offense is fun, you must also make sure you focus on defense. Basketball games are won more often by defense than offense. Without good defense, a basketball team will lose the match.

TIP! You must learn how to dribble, how a crossover is done and other important ball handling skills. A crossover means moving the ball between your hands.

Make sure to dribble properly. When dribbling the basketball, use your fingertips rather than the palm of your hand. This allows you to control the ball better. Also, dribble off to the side instead of in front. The ball should bounce no higher than your waist. Never look at the ball; instead, look forward.

TIP! Pay attention to what you are good at. You might not have star ability, but you can be an outstanding team player.

Practice your layup shot as frequently as possible. Since layups account for the majority of scoring in a game. During practice you want to get up enough speed to quickly get to the rim then easily lay the ball towards the hoop. Practicing this technique helps you learn to make layups during a game.

TIP! If you have a child who has expressed interest in becoming a basketball player in high school, make sure he trains his core muscles. Core muscles include hips, abs and the lower back.

Ask teammates what they admire about your playing skills? You may have a certain skill that you have perfected. Maybe you are nimble or you are reliably there to support them. Determine what others like about your game and fine tune those skills.

TIP! Watch tapes of yourself playing basketball to get a more objective perspective. Can you see where you can improve your form? Are there things you might have done differently? Don’t be too critical, but do be honest.

Turning away from the ball can be a costly mistake in basketball. It’s all about court awareness, and always facing the ball will make it so you are less surprised by passes. That means less turnovers. Also, watch for areas to open up so you can make an easy basket.

TIP! To improve your dribbling skills, practice dribbling with your weaker hand. If you have two hands that can dribble the ball effortlessly then it becomes easier to get by your opponent.

Build your core strength and work on your footwork. By developing strong core muscles, you will be able to recover quickly and keep your balance. Your hip, buttocks, back and abdomen muscles need to be worked on. Much like boxers do, you have the ability to bolster your footwork and agility by using a jump rope.

Shooting Slump

TIP! Make sure your vision is good. This isn’t just for reading the score, but for catching passes and making shots.

Watch your shoulders if you obtain a shooting slump. When you’re in a shooting slump it usually means that your shoulders are not square to the hoop. To help improve your shot, focus on squaring up on each of your shots. If your right hand is your dominant hand, your right shoulder must be aligned with the rim. For left-handedness, the opposite is true.

TIP! Take every charge you can. Taking a charge allows you a chance to earn a defensive stop, take the ball for your team, and sets up one more foul against the opponent.

Quickness is something you have to have when playing basketball. Always stay ahead of the opposition. Playing fast takes practice, though, and steady drilling. But do not try to play faster than you are able. When you play too fast, you can lose control and that means turnovers.

TIP! Do not release your defensive stance. Slide your feet to and fro or use your opposing foot to push off to maintain your position.

If the opposing team is guarding you to much, you can try a pass between your legs. Practice dribbling the ball between your legs. This move can give you an advantage when playing a tough defense.

Dribbling Skills

TIP! To help ward off your opponent, practice using your other hand to help shield him away from you. Be careful not to push your opponent or you may get a foul.

To improve your dribbling skills, practice dribbling with your weaker hand. If both hands are useful for dribbling, your opponents will not stand much of a chance. Try tying the dominant hand behind you and forcing yourself to just using your weak hand. Very soon, you will develop dribbling skills with the hand you considered weak.

TIP! Your workout routine can help you do well in the game. Work on sprints to make you faster and build your stamina.

In order to play, all you need is 9 more players, a hoop measured out at 10 feet, and a court that is nearly 100 feet in length. A thorough understanding is critical in order to play with skill. This article is just a starting point; keep on reading and practicing your skills.