In basketball, every player, from least to best, has a lot to learn. Times change, and so does the game of basketball. You must always be ready to learn and stay updated. Would you like to have a competitive edge? Keep reading so that you’re able to find that edge you desire.
Try learning how to hit free throw shots. That’s a shot that appears simple but is actually difficult in reality. Practice frequently using these techniques. Hold the ball level to your face. Keep looking at the goal while visualizing the basketball going through the hoop. You should then shoot and try following the trajectory you visualized.
Practice your bounce pass. A good bounce pass should hit the player on the receiving end at waist level. It’s smart to get the ball to bounce about 75% to the receiving player. This all depends on many factors.
Frequently train yourself on your pass catching moves. When practicing make sure you drill yourself to catch errant throws as well as picture perfect passes. When a game is underway, not every throw will be perfect. Be a better teammate by anticipating a bad pass to make sure it doesn’t get into the opponents hands.
Unseen passes can be avoided when proper hand signals are used by teammates. One thing that can frustrate you when playing basketball is to try and pass while a player is trying to run to the basket. Hand signals can help you communicate with your teammate on the court. No signal, no pass.
Never play through an injury when playing basketball. This sport is physically demanding and you can become injured. If you keep on playing after sustaining an injury, you may make the injury even more serious. Be sure to talk to a doctor if you feel that the injury isn’t going away.
Never turn away from the ball so that you can always be prepared for what’s coming. This will make you more aware of the court and you won’t be surprised when turnover potentials come up or quick passes. Keep an eye open for easy shots.
When playing a game of basketball, have a friend tape the game. This way, you can take a look at your game. On tape, you can see all the opportunities you passed and how things could have gone better. Look at how you did and judge yourself. This gives you an unfettered view of how you actually performed on the court, rather than relying solely on your memory of the game.
To gain greater dribbling skill, always practice with the weaker hand as well as the more dominant one. Getting by an opponent should be a lot easier if you can dribble using both hands. To help develop your weaker hand, avoid using your dominant hand. This will train your weaker hand to dribble and control the ball well.
To play good defense, you have to upset and disrupt your opponent. Force them to leave their comfort zone. Display aggressiveness in your chosen moves. Never allow them to decide what plays will be made. If you let them, you’ll be at their mercy. Try to interrupt their game plan by taking charge and controlling the tempo.
To rebound off your fellow player’s free throws, use sly feet. Try to anticipate the move of the defender between yourself and the basket so that you can maneuver around him and to the hoop. This helps you avoid the foul call and also grab the rebound.
If you want to build the dexterity of your weaker hand, start using it for everyday tasks like shining your shoes or opening doors. If you gain more mastery of it in all walks of life, you improve overall control. This will start to appear in the game of basketball, too.
Hopefully you’re able to be more confident about playing a game of basketball after reading through the tips above. Applying these tips will help you improve. Don’t stop practicing and learning. You can get started with taking your game farther by remembering all you have read.