Well here is your chance to learn more about basketball. You play because you adore the sport. However, you might not know everything, and you probably realize that. Perhaps this piece has something to offer you. Read on for some useful ways you can improve your basketball game.
It is important that you practice layups. Layups sometimes wind up being 4 out of every 5 shots in basketball. Whenever you practice, approach the goal full speed, jump and take a smooth shot. Knowing how to run and jump quickly and smoothly will assist you in knowing how to leap and shoot more effectively while playing.
Understanding the opponent is a good way to win with defense. Watch tapes and be sure you’re paying attention to scouting reports. For example, you should know which of the players are left-handed and which are right-handed. This knowledge will help you play the best game possible. Smart defenders are good defenders.
Have a friend or family member videotape your games, then view the video to see the result. Are you able to see what you’ve missed or things that you could improve on? When looking at the tape, don’t be too critical, but be honest. Analyze your skills honestly so you can become the player you want to be.
Work on passing in a direction you are not looking. This is a great way to fake out your opponents. When done right, the look draws your opponents to the wrong locale so that the person you passed to has a good long look at the basket before shooting. It can be a really powerful move in the game.
Prevent the opposing team from stealing the ball by dribbling hard. This speeds up the dribbling cycle, which means the person covering you has less of a chance to steal the ball each cycle. If the defense gets to be too much, look to pass the ball to someone who is open.
Use wrist curls to increase the strength in your weaker arm. You’ll find it becomes more controllable. You will soon see a difference on the court if you are consistent with these simple exercises.
Always set your three-point shooting practice goal at the official NBA distance. The international line is much closer. If you’re able to get the shot from where the NBA shoots, then you can start working from a range further than the defense expects.
Keep dribbling until you’re ready to either pass or shoot. You have few options remaining to you after you stop dribbling. If you decide not to shoot or pass, all you can do is pivot on your rear foot. This leaves an opening for your opponents to double team and try get the ball away from you.
Keep a rhythm while dribbling to throw your opponents off. Dribbling somewhat slowly, then suddenly dribbling fast might give you the opening you need to take a shot. Both the change in speed and sound will confound the player who is guarding you.
Practice all kinds of shots from every court location. Start out by practicing grip and balance. Sometimes you are forced into off-balanced shots, but that only makes you less accurate. You can use your basketball’s valve to improve grip. Spread the fingers of your dominant hand and put the center of your hand over the valve located at the center of the basketball.
It’s time to take everything you’ve learned and use that enthusiasm to make improvements. Learning to do something new and excelling at it is one of the best feelings you can have. Keep these tips in mind to show others what you know. Enjoy basketball every day!