Practice is vital to your success as a basketball player. However, why practice if you are not doing it properly to start? The tips below can help you shoot baskets correctly in no time.
Keep your head up when you dribble. Looking directly at the ball means you aren’t good at the game yet. Take the ball with you wherever you go. Dribble the ball while you’re walking around. Don’t look while dribbling, because you won’t be able to see what’s going on.
Crossovers are key for ball handlers. In a crossover, you transfer the basketball from hand to hand. You have to do this quickly to be good at it. A good crossover dribble can give you the opportunity to switch directions and progress on the court much faster.
Your balance is an important aspect to consider when you are shooting. Of course, pros may make baskets from a great distance while falling off the court, but this isn’t standard. They are improvising. You need to maintain good balance while shooting, which is sure to produce greater consistency.
Free throws are as much mental as they are physical, like other parts of the game. You are able to train your hands and legs to free throw well, but if you think you will fail, you will. Relax your mind and keep your concentration centered on the basket to make more of these freebies.
Better your basketball skills by watching the pros play. Go to games, watch them on TV and you can also watch videos. 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.
A smart tip to follow while playing basketball is to always keep your eye on the ball and not away from the play. This helps you become aware of the court and lowers chances for surprises from turnovers and quick passes. When your eyes are constantly assessing the game, you will be better able to make easy shots.
Understanding the opponent is a good way to win with defense. Watch tapes and be sure you’re paying attention to scouting reports. Keep track of which players are right hand dominant and which are left hand dominant. Once you have a solid idea of your opponent, you can dial in on the best way to defend. A defender that is knowledgeable is an effective defender.
Practice passing while looking in the opposite direction. This is a simple thing that could easily confuse your opponents. If you do it right, the look makes members of the opposing team look in the wrong direction, which gives the person to whom you passed the ball plenty of time to make the shot. When done smoothly it can be a game changer.
These tips will help you improve your game no matter how frequently you play. Start using a tip and see how much better your game gets. Over time, you will see steady improvement in all aspects of your game.