TIP! While focusing on offense is fun, you must also make sure you focus on defense. Basketball games are won because of good defense.

In order to play basketball well, you need to understand how to become a great basketball player. You shouldn’t think you can play basketball without learning about the game, either. The following tips have helped pros become the players they are.

TIP! Learn what a crossover is and how to do it. This move entails transferring the basketball from your left hand to your right hand and back again.

Make sure you are dribbling the right way. You want to dribble with the tips of your fingers, not your whole hand. Using your fingertips will allow you to have better control when dribbling the ball. Also, dribble off to the side instead of in front. The ball should bounce no higher than your waist. Always look upwards, never at the ground.

TIP! Your balance is an important aspect to consider when you are shooting. While some NBA players are able to launch a ball to the net mid-fall, this is not appropriate for most people.

Practice shooting free throws. This seemingly simple shot can be difficult to execute under game conditions. This technique should be practiced often if possible. Begin by holding the ball directly in front of your face. Visualize the ball sailing into the hoop. Then, shoot the ball using the trajectory you pictured.

TIP! A great way to hone your own basketball abilities is to watch the pros. Attend as many professional games as you can, watch the pros on TV, or watch video of professionals.

Work on improving your strengths to become an even better player. Your team will benefit more if you stop trying to be the star of the game and work your best. Focus on the skills you have and work to make them better.

TIP! If you have a high school level basketball player for a kid, be sure their core muscles are properly trained. That means their hips, lower back and abs.

Perfect your layup technique. You should expect layups to represent about 80% of all the shots you take in a game. The best practice strategy is to go full tilt toward the hoop, then do a smooth jump shot. Practicing your running and jumping as a single motion will improve your technique faster than practicing them separately.

Bounce Pass

TIP! To help perfect your free throw abilities you should perform a consistent routine. This may mean you want to dribble three times, touch your forehead, bend at the knees, or do anything else.

Bounce passes are important in the game of basketball. The bounce pass needs to reach the player at waist level. Aim for a firm bounce pass that hits the ground around 3/4 of the distance between you and the intended player. Of course, there are factors that should be taken into consideration when passing using the bouncing technique.

TIP! To improve ball handling, consider focusing workouts on your forearms and hands. Wrist curls can be effective at helping you to control the ball as if you’ll be dribbling in your sleep.

Play games against yourself in and out of season. While it’s a team sport, you may not be able to find others that will play. This is just fine. You’ll still be able to get a lot done when playing solo. You can practice free throws or pivot moves. There is always something to practice.

TIP! You should ensure that you can clearly see. This isn’t just for reading the score, but for catching passes and making shots.

To be a good post-up player in the pain, you need to have really good footwork. You must beat the opposing playing to an open spot. Once there, you have to firmly claim the area as your own. Footwork, therefore, is crucial.

TIP! If you wish to shoot on the outside better you should work on shooting hundreds of times every day from a lot of places on the court. To get even better, try to practice dribbling and quickly shooting.

Ask your fellow team members which of your skills that they admire. Are you great at any one thing? Maybe you are nimble or you are reliably there to support them. Find out what others perceive as your natural gifts and build upon those more completely.

TIP! Keep the activity below the knees if possible. The other team’s players will have a difficult time stealing the basketball from you.

Never turn away from the ball, so that you can always stay ready for anything. This helps you become aware of the court and lowers chances for surprises from turnovers and quick passes. Always watch for areas opening up where you can go for a quick basket.

TIP! For exercise, do a workout regimen that will enhance your skills and presence on the court. Sprint running can help improve on-court speed, while distance running is sure to boost your stamina.

Stay conscious of your foot motion and placement. If you slide onto the baseline, you will lose the ball for being out of bounds. If you travel without dribbling, you’re going to get yourself into a turnover situation. Avoid lifting your feet when you are screening or in position for a charge or the foul will be called on you instead of your opponent.

TIP! To become a much better basketball player, try speaking with teammates and learning what they do. Basketball is a team sport.

If the opposing team is breathing down your neck, it’s a good idea to pass the ball between your legs. Try practicing this by bouncing your ball hard in between your legs while stepping forward or backward. If you get this down, you will have a major advantage on the court.

TIP! To keep your opponent on their toes, keep your dribbling steady and regular, then surprise them. A consistent pace for your dribble will lull your opponent, and help you move more quickly than they do when the time comes.

Give your layouts the most by launching from the foot that opposes the hand you are shooting with. Jump off your left foot when you shoot using your right hand. This balances your body when moving towards your basket. It keeps your body in between you and the defender.

TIP! Forge a strong bond between teammates, whether you are playing the game or off the court. When a basketball team is totally in sync, the game is taken to a higher level.

A good defensive strategy will keep your opponent on their toes. Focus on getting them out of the comfort zone. Be aggressive in the moves you execute. Never allow them to decide what plays will be made. This will give your opponent the advantage. Instead, disrupt their rhythm by making the first move.

TIP! It is necessary to be capable of altering the path of your opponent. It is irrelevant whether you are playing defense or offense; in both cases, your ability to control the direction of your opponent is critical.

Improve both forearms and hands to improve ball control. For example, you can improve dribbling skills by adding wrist curls to your routine. One thing that is important to remember is that it is difficult to be static and be a scorer. Strength and flexibility in your hands will allow you to move the ball more gracefully and swiftly.

TIP! If you are aware of a weakness in one of your opponent’s hands, make them work with that side. For example, if your opponent is right handed, force them to use their left hand.

After you understand the inner workers of an automobile, you’ll excellent. The only thing that could make you feel better is to learn all about basketball. This can help you to impress your teammates, and help you to win games.

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