TIP! You need to learn the correct way to dribble the ball. When you dribble, use the fingertips, not the palm.

Basketball is an exciting, fast-paced sport that keeps fans on their feet. Actually, most people could learn a thing or two about the game of basketball. Use the following advice to learn more about the game that you love.

TIP! Make sure you are looking forward and looking up as you’re dribbling. If you start staring at the ball while you dribble, you know you need to practice more.

Focus on your strengths to get better at basketball. 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 what your strengths are, then practice to perfection!

TIP! Put the emphasis on your strengths can help you to be a better basketball player. Your best skills may not be center-stage every game, but knowing how to play the best angles can help you give more to your team.

A bounce pass is essential to learn. It needs to get to the player at their waist. Bounce it 3/4 of the distance to the receiver. Of course, there are also other factors involved.

TIP! Learn how to block out movement, noise and other distractions when taking a free throw. It is possible to practice the physical movements needed to make such a shot, but when your mental focus is lacking, you are likely to miss.

A great way to hone your own basketball abilities is to watch the pros. Go to actual games or watch on TV. Every player has a skill that allows him to succeed. Practice their moves to become better.

TIP! A good tip about passing is try doing it without dribbling the ball. This is very hard to accomplish, but it forces you and your fellow players to work on accurate passing skills.

Don’t pump too much iron if you plan on being a jump shooter. Even though having strong muscles is great for the inside game, being on the outside it can harm you when shooting the ball. Some pro shooting guards make their arms large enough to decrease their own field goal percentage.

Core Muscles

TIP! Bad passes can be avoided with the right hand signals. It can be frustrating to attempt to pass the ball to a team mate as that person is heading toward the basket.

If you have a kid wanting to play basketball in high school, be certain that they are properly training their core muscles. Focus on hips, lower back and abs. These muscles form a bridge across the lower and upper parts of your body. When the core is weak, it is difficult to coordinate the movements of both halves. Building strong core muscles will allow your to jump higher, run faster and maintain your balance.

TIP! Don’t play while injured or else your injury will worsen. Basketball is physically demanding, and it is easy to get hurt.

Good footwork remains a vital part of basketball. You do, of course, need to be near the basket, but finding the right spot without getting blocked is essential. When you are in position, you must secure your spot. Each of these skills is reliant on good footwork.

TIP! Develop a routine to use every time you shoot a free throw. Perhaps you will dribble twice, follow up by bending your knees, pulling your earlobe or performing some other ritualistic action for good luck.

It is best to take a break if you sustain an injury while playing. It’s a challenging sport that’s very physical, and you have the ability to get injured. Pushing through the pain often results in a more serious injury. Be sure to talk to a doctor if you feel that the injury isn’t going away.

TIP! Get into a consistent routine to improve your free throw shots. If you aren’t consistent, you won’t make the basket.

Asking for feedback from coaches and teammates about your playing is important in order to become a stronger player. Are you really good at any one thing? You could potentially be excellent in one area while you are busy focusing on another, unaware. Find out what others think your natural abilities are, and be certain to keep developing those skills.

TIP! A good player on defense will annoy the heck out of the opponent and cause the other team to get flustered. Make them uncomfortable.

In order to be your best on defense, take the time to completely understand the player you are guarding. Watch tapes and be sure you’re paying attention to scouting reports. For example, you should know which of the players are left-handed and which are right-handed. Studying your opponent is one of the best ways to be able to win the game. Understanding the intricacies of the game will make you a better player.

TIP! A great way to make sure you’re in a good position defensively is to keep yourself in the defensive stance. Slide your feet to and fro or use your opposing foot to push off to maintain your position.

To get more out of layups, take off using the foot that;s the opposite of your shooting hand. Thus, if you use your right hand for shooting, you need to push off using your left foot. This helps to maintain balance throughout your body and allows you to use yourself as a barrier between the defender and yourself.

TIP! If you want to build the dexterity of your weaker hand, start using it for everyday tasks like shining your shoes or opening doors. Being able to dribble and shoot the ball with both hands will make it much more difficult for opponents to defend you.

A consistent pre-shot routine when at the line will increase your chance at success. If you aren’t consistent, you will find that your shooting is off. The simplest way to get better at shooting free throws is through constant repetitive motions when shooting the ball. If you break your routine, you’ll start missing shots.

TIP! Switch the weight of your body while you are dribbling. Remember that you must dribble in a variety of situations during a basketball game.

Basketball is something you can get benefits from by playing it, or just by watching it. If you are looking to improve your game or increase your understanding, it is always good to gain as much knowledge on the sport as possible. The tips located above will help you become the best player you can be.