TIP! You need good balance when you shoot. Even though a professional can hit all sorts of crazy off-balance shots, it is not the ideal method of shooting that you want to learn.

Are you ready to learn some new techniques? You are a player; you love the game. When it comes to basketball, as with most things in life, you can always learn more. Perhaps you can learn a few things from this piece. Read on to learn more about what you can do to become a better player and a more useful part of your team.

TIP! If you want to improve your game, play up your strengths. Your talent might not make you a star; however, learning your strengths will help you become a better team player.

Many people only direct their attention to the offensive part of the game without realizing that defense is the key to winning. Basketball games are often won by the defense. Offense is often what gets the glory, but most winning basketball teams play great defense.

TIP! Get educated on the way to properly pass the ball on a bounce. A bounce pass that’s good is going to end up hitting the other player near their waist.

Always dribble with your head up and looking forward. If you must look at the ball while dribbling, you haven’t practiced enough. Always have a basketball handy. Try dribbling even when walking to a store. Staring at the ball doesn’t allow you to watch the other players.

TIP! Free throws have a huge mental element to them. You can train your body to complete the motions of making a free throw, but if you are mentally prepared to fail, you will.

It is important to know the right way to throw a bounce pass. It needs to get to the player at their waist. One good rule is for you to bounce the basketball most of the way toward the other player. But, there are some factors that can change this.

TIP! Practice your passes and catches frequently. When you practice, drill yourself to pay attention to errant throws and passes that are picture perfect.

Be sure to watch professional games to learn some great tips and tricks to improve your game. Go to actual games or watch on TV. Each player has their strengths and you can learn a lot from each one.

TIP! Practice using different types of defenses. Most of the game is played in zone, but your opponent may try to switch things up to do man-to-man coverage.

Don’t pump a lot of iron if you wish to become a jump shooter. Muscle strength is beneficial for playing any basketball position, but there is such a thing as too much. Overdeveloped muscles could actually interfere with your score percentage.

TIP! Would you like to pull one over on your opponents? You should try a back pass. Use the dominant hand to hold onto the basketball when trying this pass.

Do you want to fool the other team? Make use of the back pass. Perform this pass by holding the ball using your dominant hand. Then, bring the ball back behind you. Lastly, flick the wrist in the direction you want the ball to go. This should trick the opposing team.

Free Throws

TIP! A great way to stay prepared at all times is to always face the ball. This will make you more aware of the court and you won’t be surprised when turnover potentials come up or quick passes.

Perform skills, practice your ball handling and shoot free throws when you are practicing alone. It is possible to enjoy this team sport even in the absence of your team. That is okay. Solo games also help. Work on free throws or three pointers. You can always find things to work on.

TIP! When exercising, concentrate on building up core strength and improving your footwork. With strong core muscles, you will have better balance.

Never play through an injury on the court. The sport of basketball is very physical, which makes one susceptible to injury. Trying to be tough so you can keep going, even when you’re just a little uncomfortable, can make an injury worse. See a physician if you think your injury is serious.

TIP! Launch your layup jumps from the foot that is opposite the hand you shoot with. This means that if you shoot with your right hand, take off from your left foot.

If your opponent is pressing hard, you can give yourself some room to work by dribbling the ball between your legs. Try practicing this by bouncing your ball hard in between your legs while stepping forward or backward. Perfecting this technique will help thwart the opposing team while you’re trying to advance the ball.

TIP! A solid routine is necessary for improvement in free throw shooting. If you aren’t consistent, you will find that your shooting is off.

If you use these tips, you will feel a revived energy when you play the game. It feels good to be in control of your game. Keep in mind the knowledge that has been shared, so you can start showing your skills. It is a great game to play and watch!