TIP! Make layups a part of your daily practice regimen. Since layups account for the majority of scoring in a game.

Are you interested in basketball but just aren’t sure of where to begin with it? You are not alone! Lots of folks watch basketball games and marvel at what the professionals can do. This article is packed with useful ideas and insights to help you become a better player.

TIP! Practice your bounce pass. A bounce pass that’s good is going to end up hitting the other player near their waist.

Many people forget that defense is as important as offense during practice. Basketball games are won more often by defense than offense. Offense gets all the praise and attention, but without a good defense, any basketball team is destined to lose.

TIP! Watch the pro’s play if you want to improve your game. It is important that you see how other people play the game.

Practice your free throw shot. This seemingly simple shot can be difficult to execute under game conditions. Practice constantly using this tip. Start out by holding the basketball right in front of you. There may be a number of distractions so you need to focus on your goal. Then shoot the ball with the trajectory that you visualized.

TIP! Play basketball against yourself even during the off-season. Many times you are unable to find people to play with.

When dribbling, your head must be up, and you need to look forward. If you have to look at the ball while dribbling, that means you need to practice more. Carry your basketball everywhere. Dribble the ball when you’re walking to the shops. By looking forward instead of at the basketball, you are able to see the happenings on the court.

TIP! Try using hand signals to prevent passes in error. It is very frustrating when a teammate isn’t open for the perfect pass.

Crossing over is a vital skill to have for handling the basketball. This term refers to switching the hand you use. It has to be done fast to be effective. By having the ability to move either way quickly, you will become a better all-around player.

TIP! Quality footwork will help you get better shots. You do, of course, need to be near the basket, but finding the right spot without getting blocked is essential.

Good footwork is important when you’re posting up in the paint. You must be certain to get the good spot ahead of your opponent. After grabbing the position, you need to hold the area. The key to mastering these skills is good footwork.

TIP! To properly handle the ball, you have to spread your fingers out. This gives you better control of the ball.

The key for controlling the ball well is to spread your fingers. This can help you to remain in control of the ball at all times. However, remember to keep your palm away from the ball. When passing and shooting the ball toward its target, the sole contact point should be fingers.

TIP! Being able to anticipate your opponent is a key skill. Review tapes and keep up with scouting reports.

A good defensive strategy will keep your opponent on their toes. Getting them to do things they aren’t accustomed to doing is ideal. When making a move, be aggressive. Do not allow them to decide which plays to make. The more aggressively smart team is usually the one who wins. Try to interrupt their game plan by taking charge and controlling the tempo.

TIP! When working out, focus on building your core strength and perfecting your footwork. With strong core muscles, you will have better balance.

You need to work on your forearms and your hands to handle the ball more efficiently. Wrist curls can be effective at helping you to control the ball as if you’ll be dribbling in your sleep. Don’t just think you can place yourself in one spot, wait for the ball then hoist up a shot. You have to get the ball around, too.

TIP! If you need some help seeing where you need work, try to get a friend or relative to record your games. Are you able to see what you’ve missed or things that you could improve on? Appraise your performance honestly but don’t be overly harsh with yourself.

The tips you’ve just read can elevate you from a casual enthusiast to an effective basketball player. But, now that this article has been read, you should be prepared to start playing like a professional. Go play a game, so you can start using these great tips?