TIP! Correct dribbling is key. Finger tips, not palms, are the key to successful dribbling.

To become a star in basketball, you need a lot of practice and a good work ethic. Even when playing for fun, you would like to play well, right? Reading the information here should help you make some improvements in your future basketball games.

TIP! Learn what a crossover is and how to do it. In a crossover, you transfer the basketball from hand to hand.

Learn how to hit a free throw shot. It looks simple to do, but it isn’t that easy. Use the following directions to perfect free throws and practice often. Start by holding your ball before your face. Keep looking at the goal while visualizing the basketball going through the hoop. Then try shooting the ball along the trajectory that was in your mind.

Mental Focus

TIP! You need to practice more than defeating a zone defense. Usually, a big part of the game is probably going to be in zone; however, the opposing team can suddenly switch to man-to-man to catch you off guard.

Free throws require as much mental focus as physical skill. 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. Take a deep breathe, relax and block out all outside distractions before taking the shot.

TIP! Keep your skills sharp in the off-season by playing different challenging games. Even if you can’t get a bunch of people together to play, you can still practice on your own.

Shake things up rather than focusing solely on a zone defense. While you might see a zone defense mostly, a team can switch defenses to man-to-man quickly in order to confuse you. You might lose your control of the court if the other team use this technique, unless you are ready for this possibility.

TIP! If your kid is going to try out for the basketball team, they should be properly training their core muscles. The core muscles are the hips, lower back muscles and the abdominal muscles.

Play by yourself to practice. It is possible to enjoy this team sport even in the absence of your team. This is perfectly acceptable. Playing on your own can give you the chance to work on isolated areas of your game. You can practice free throws or pivot moves. This will help improve the hard parts of your game.

TIP! A smart tip to follow while playing basketball is to always keep your eye on the ball and not away from the play. This keeps you aware of what is going on so you aren’t surprised.

If you’re on the offense, you footwork needs to be excellent to stay open for passes and shots. There are two important points you must remember. You must create a physical presence below the basket, and you must secure a good spot in advance of your opponent. Having found a good spot, you must secure it. Good footwork is key to a good basketball game.

TIP! Watch your shoulders if you obtain a shooting slump. When you’re in a shooting slump it usually means that your shoulders are not square to the hoop.

A great way to stay prepared at all times is to always face the ball. This will give you court awareness and keep you from being surprised by quick passes or turnover potentials. Scan the court looking for openings to make a basket.

TIP! Have a friend or family member tape your games so you can view how you appear on the court. This way, you have the opportunity to go through your play at a later time and see your mistakes.

Spread your fingers out to handle the ball properly. This can help you avoid losing it when you hold it. Additionally, the palm of your hand should not come into contact with the ball. Remember to maintain contact with the ball through your fingers only.

TIP! If you want improve your free throws, you have to develop a routine. Inconsistency does not make a better shot.

As you perform your fitness routine, make it a point to target your core and your footwork. Your body will be able to move quicker and be more balanced when you have srong core muscles. Focus on your hip, abdomen, and back muscles. Much like boxers do, you have the ability to bolster your footwork and agility by using a jump rope.

TIP! To be a strong defender, you must have the ability to disrupt and interfere with the opponents’ plans. Get them outside their comfort zone.

If you find yourself unable to shoot well, consider your shoulders. If your shoulders aren’t properly positioned, your shot is not going to go in. Keep your shoulders square to the hoop. Your dominant shoulder should also be lined up perfectly with the rim.

TIP! Hard dribbling helps avoid stolen balls. A good hard dribble brings the ball back to you much faster, leaving less time for the opponent to steal it from you.

Consistency in your approach is vital to becoming solid at free throws. That could include a set number of dribbles, knee-bends or some other type of movement. As you adopt this routine, it becomes easier for your mind and body to prepare for the shot.

Look away when you practice passing. This will confuse your opponents. The look will cause your guard to turn away. It’s a great play if done properly.

TIP! To trap the opposing players in a 2-3 zone, have the defending guards hold back till the opposing point guard has moved beyond the midcourt line by about ten feet. Once your opponent is trapped, he will have no option but to make a pass.

It is time for you to take the tips here and put them into action. You will soon become a better player if you apply the tips you just read in this article. Before you know it, you will be a superior player.