Basketball is fun, fast-paced and sometimes frustrating. However, there are certain things you must know if you are going to play. The tips below will help you master your technique.
It is important to focus on both offense and defense when learning to play basketball. Basketball games are often won by the defense. Offense is flashier, so it draws the attention of fans and journalists, but a team that can’t defend well won’t win any games.
Proper balance is essential when shooting. You’ve seen the pros fall out of bounds when trying to shoot 30 feet from the basket; this is a bad move. They have just improvised, is all. Keep your balance so you can consistently win points.
Receiving Player
Teach yourself how a bounce pass can be properly thrown. This means your pass should be aimed towards the receiving player at the level of his waist. Remember you should bounce the ball approximately three-quarters of the distance between yourself and the receiving player. Although, there will be other circumstances that are involved too.
A great way to hone your own basketball abilities is to watch the pros. Get tickets to some pro games, if possible, or catch some games on television. You’ll learn that every player is skilled at certain things and that can help you to know what you can do to get better.
Don’t just practice your game against the zone defense. Your opponent may change their game up to keep you on your toes. If you haven’t prepared yourself for that, you might lose your game very quickly.
Would you like to pull one over on the other team? Try the back pass. Use the dominant hand to hold onto the basketball when trying this pass. Next, pull the ball behind your back. Next, snap your wrist in the direction you want the ball to be moved to. This should help to trick the other team.
Core Muscles
Children who aspire to become great basketball players in high school must engage in physical fitness activities that focus on the core muscles. These core muscles for basketball include your lower back, hips and abs. The core connects the lower and upper extremities, and if a person has a weak core, they will fail to excel in athletic pursuits. If your core is solid, you will have greater strength in your legs. This helps with fast running and high jumping.
Avoid errant passes by the use of hand signals. It’s frustrating to pass to your teammate at the very moment they’re heading toward the basket. The use of hand signals can help you avoid this difficulty. If the player does not flash the signal, then the player can avoid an errant pass.
Never turn away from the ball so that you can always be prepared for what’s coming. This helps you become aware of the court and lowers chances for surprises from turnovers and quick passes. Maintain awareness of open areas on the ball court that may allow you to quickly score a basket.
Spreading the fingers is something you have to do to handle the ball right. The ball will not get away if you always keep your fingers spread when handling the ball. However, remember to keep your palm away from the ball. You should only use your fingers to touch the ball when passing or shooting.
Play a good defense by knowing your opponent. Follow the scouting reports and watch tapes of their games. Keep track of which players are right hand dominant and which are left hand dominant. Understanding your opponent allows you to effectively play defense. Knowledge can make you a strong defender.
Practice passing while looking the opposite direction. It can be very confusing to your opponents. If you do this fake the right way, then the receiver of the pass should have an advantage and a great look at the goal. When completed correctly, it creates an awesome play.
Free Throws
Consistent free throws require a consistent technique. If you’re not consistent you’ll find yourself missing free throws. Repetition is an excellent way to improve your ability to make each free throw. Stick with a routine until you can perfect it. You will probably miss your shot if the routine you use is not perfect.
To gain greater dribbling skill, always practice with the weaker hand as well as the more dominant one. If you use both your hands to dribble, it is easier to control. Force yourself to not use your stronger hand. In no time, the weak hand will also be useful for dribbling.
You need to put a damper in your opponent’s plan if you want to be successful with defending. Focus on getting them out of the comfort zone. Always move aggressively as they try to maneuver around you. Never allow them to decide what plays will be made. If you allow this, they will run over you. Rather, you make the initial move and break up their flow.
Practice drills that force you to get the basketball to the other end of the court in less than 5 dribbles. This can seem impossible, but if you do it, you’ll get incredible speed and length. It can mean easier lay-ups when dealing with fast breaks and it can help your teammates for just a moment.
This article has shown you just how fun basketball can be. This article has also proven that you need knowledge on this sport if you want to play like a pro. If you want to give basketball your all, then follow the advice you have read here.