TIP! You need to learn the correct way to dribble the ball. Use the fingertips, not the palm, for the best dribbling.

Basketball can be enjoyed by everyone. It does not matter what someone’s gender, age or race might be, anyone can enjoy a fun game of basketball. Bring your loved ones together and show off what you’ve learned. What new moves? Keep reading here if you wish to figure out what you can do.

TIP! Crossovers are key for ball handlers. This is when the ball is moved from hand to hand.

When using the ball a lot, you must relearn a crossover. A crossover means moving the ball between your hands. You must do it fast for best success. When you do it right, the crossover dribble helps you alter directions and go down the court faster.

TIP! Free throws require as much mental focus as physical skill. Your body can be trained to make free throws, but your mind has to be focused on success if you want to make the basket.

If you want to be a master of the jump shot, do not make weight lifting a priority. Even though having strong muscles is great for the inside game, being on the outside it can harm you when shooting the ball. You might see a decrease in your goal percentages if your biceps become too large.

TIP! Even professional basketball players spend a lot of time watching other people play basketball. Get tickets to some pro games, if possible, or catch some games on television.

Would you like to completely fool the opposing team, making them look silly? Try the back pass. To do a back pass, begin by grasping the basketball using your dominant hand. Now hold the ball behind you. Then you will use your wrist and flip it in the direction you want the ball to be going. This should make it easy to trick the other team.

TIP! You may have better luck honing your passing skills if you forgo dribbling during practice. It is quite challenging to play the game without dribbling, but it does make sure you and your teammates make accurate passes.

One of the keys to becoming a great basketball player is developing core muscles. This will involve their lower back, hips, and abs. The core links the upper and lower extremities and without a strong one, their athletic performance will be limited. A strong and solid core allows force that is generated via the legs to be used for helpful movements during the game like higher jumps and faster running.

TIP! If you are good at shooting the ball then the last thing you want to do is lift weights. While muscle strength is good to have in any basketball position, it is possible to have too much for perimeter play.

Don’t play when you are injured! Basketball is very challenging physically, and this can cause further serious injury. Playing through an injury can prolong it which is always bad. Be sure to seek medical care if you have a serious injury.

TIP! If you have a child that is strength training for basketball, their core muscles should be properly developed. Show them how to exercise their hips, lower back and abs.

Play a good defense by knowing your opponent. Pay attention to how they play. Know which players are left and right handed. When you know some of the other player’s moves, you’ll have a leg up during a game as you’ll be able to predict what he is going to do. Knowledge can make you a strong defender.

TIP! To make your layups count the most, take off from the foot opposite your shooting hand. Jump off your left foot when you shoot using your right hand.

During your workouts, concentrate on improving your footwork as well as your core strength. Your body will maintain balance and move more quickly when your core muscles are strong. You must work out your hip, back and abdomen muscles. You will improve your speed and footwork if you jump rope like boxers do.

TIP! A good player on defense will annoy the heck out of the opponent and cause the other team to get flustered. Force them out of their comfort zone.

To become a great free thrower, practice and develop a routine you will use during each shot. This can be any combination of movements that makes you feel comfortable and prepare for the shot. However, they need to be the same combination of movements each time. As you adopt this routine, it becomes easier for your mind and body to prepare for the shot.

TIP! In your drills, you should attempt to move the basketball the length of the court in fewer than half a dozen dribbles. This may be difficult in the beginning, but if you manage it, you’ll be a force to be reckoned with.

After reading this article, you can confidently say that you know all the best moves. You could potentially have learned a few great techniques that your friends have never heard of. This is supposed to be a fun game! Winning or losing, you’ll have a great time.