One of the neat facts about basketball is that it is easy to learn. You can get the basics in a couple minutes. However, there are many advanced techniques that can be learned. Continue reading to learn the how you can become the best player.
Watch your form while you dribble the ball. Instead of using your palm to dribble focus on using your fingertips. This provides you with much more ball control. Dribble on the sides of your body instead of directly before you, and bounce it waist level. Always look upwards, never at the ground.
Crossovers are key for ball handlers. When you do a crossover, you move the basketball very fast from one hand over to the other hand. It should be done quickly. When executed properly, a crossover dribble lets you alternate directions suddenly so that you can move down the entire court quickly.
Free throws require as much mental focus as physical skill. Training your body is important, but you also have to be mentally ready for the shot. Relax yourself and concentrate on your shot.
Footwork is the best way to find an opening shot. You need to have physical presence beneath the net, but you also have to choose the right spot to be in. Once you’ve reached a good spot, you need to secure it. These skills require solid footwork.
Never turn away from the ball, so that you can always stay ready for anything. This helps keep you aware of the action, and it takes away the surprise factor. Maintain awareness of open areas on the ball court that may allow you to quickly score a basket.
The key to ball control is to spread your fingers out. This gives you better control of the ball. Do not allow your palm to come in contact with the ball either. You should try your best to only hold onto the ball with your fingertips when passing and shooting.
Whenever you work out, practice footwork and work on your core strength. When you have strong core muscles, your body will be better balanced and will move faster. Don’t forget to also work out muscles in your back, buttocks, abdomen and hips. Jump rope like the boxers do to increase your footwork speed.
Get someone to analyze how you play on tape. Do you see anything you could do differently? Don’t get yourself down about your performance, but stay honest with yourself concerning where your game needs some work. Sometimes you think of yourself as something you are not.
Practice passing while looking in the opposite direction. You are able to confuse opponents with this technique. You give your teammate a better chance to make the shot because the opposing player is moving the wrong direction when you pass the ball. It really can be a powerful technique.
In order to be successful with layups, the foot that is opposite from shooting hand is the one you should take off from. Practice shooting using your right hand, then jump off your left foot. Also, this will improve your balance as you approach the basket.
If you wish to succeed in a defensive role, you must be able to break your opponents’ concentration. Get them outside their comfort zone. When making a move, be aggressive. Never let them control the game plays. Otherwise, the opponents will win all the shots and dominate you. Try making the initial move and interrupt their rhythm.
Mix things up offensively to keep the other team’s defense off-balance. When running towards the net, step on your front foot, and start to straighten up your body. You will have the guard think that you’re slowing down. In turn, they will straighten themselves. Use this opportunity to sprint past your opponent.
Strength Training
To increase your basketball playing abilities, consider strength training exercises. It’s important to have stamina and strength when playing basketball. Even the youngest kids that play will benefit from the game. As they grow a bit older, they can add free weights to their strengthening routine. Once they transition into adulthood, strength training must continue to be a core part of their exercise routine.
You can improve your shooting skills by practicing with shots from different spots on the court. If you wish to get even better at this, try dribbling and then stopping to make a quick shot. When you are in the air, take a gander at the target. Don’t do it prior to this point. This is a good way to simulate real game-time conditions and increase accuracy.
You may have just learned how to play basketball right before you read the above information. Maybe you have been playing your whole life. No matter the case, the information below can help you play better. Put these tips to work whenever you next hit the court.