You want to learn more about the game of basketball. You love to play, and you are passionate about the sport. Nonetheless, you can’t know everything there is to know. No matter how good you are, there is always more to learn. So, maybe this article can teach you a thing or two. Read on to learn more about what you can do to become a better player and a more useful part of your team.
A lot of novice players mostly focus on their offensive skills, but developing good defensive skills will help you become a better player. Defense can make or break a basketball game. The offense gets lots of attention, but if the defense is lacking no basketball team will ever win a game.
Try learning how to hit free throw shots. These shots may seem easy, but they can be quite difficult. Use the following directions to perfect free throws and practice often. Start with the ball held out from your face. Your eyes should be on the goal. You should be thinking about the ball going in the hoop. Shoot on the same path you saw in your mind’s eye.
Passing the ball is an important part of playing basketball so practice making and receiving passes. Be sure to be able to catch off-target throws on top of good ones. When a game is underway, not every throw will be perfect. Learn how to catch any sort of throw.
In order to get a good shot, you must use good footwork. While actually being beneath the basket is key, establishing a good position prior to the opposition is even more so. If you are just stepping into position, you now have to secure the spot. Solid footwork can make both of these things happen.
One of the most vital attributes one needs to play basketball is quickness. Gaining agility and speed will give you the upper hand when playing a game of basketball. Fast play is a result of heavy drilling. Don’t attempt to play more quickly than your skills allow. If you play beyond your speed, the game gets out of control, with errant passes and turnovers.
Make layups count by taking off with the foot that is opposite to your shooting hand. This means that if you shoot with your right hand, take off from your left foot. This can help you to remain balanced, continue moving toward the hoop, and will keep your body between the defender and yourself.
If you see a chance to gain control of the ball, take it. By taking charge you can create a defensive stop so you can get the ball, and allows you to create setups so that the opponent will foul you. Perfecting this play can really give you an advantage on the court.
To make your three-point shot better, practice it from the minimum NBA approved distance. The standard line and college lines are much closer. If you can make a basket from there, you will open up the defense because they will have to play you closely.
Make sure the ball doesn’t bounce above your knees when you dribble. The other team’s players will have a difficult time stealing the basketball from you. To help this occur, you must be bending, however it will speed up your efforts to move down the court.
To help ward off your opponent, practice using your other hand to help shield him away from you. You can’t push on your opponent, but you should use your non-dribbling arm to protect the ball. Just keep it raised a little while you dribble with your dribbling hand.
To become a great player talk with your teammates and learn what they have planned. Basketball is a sport played by a team. It is not all about one-on-one offense or defense. Everyone helps everyone else. Talk to your teammates when you need help, so that you’re all on the same page.
Always practice from all spots on the court. Start by practicing grip and balance. It is possible to make an off-balance shot, but it has less accuracy. You can use your basketball’s valve to improve grip. Cover the valve with your palm, and spread your fingers around the ball.
Always know the angles the ball is likely to take if it misses a goal. This knowledge will help you get more rebounds.
Double Dribble
Don’t double dribble. A double dribble is when you stop dribbling, then start again. When you stop, you have to shoot or pass. Resuming your dribble is not allowed. A turnover means you will have to give up the ball to the other team.
Make sure you leap for a rebound while in control of your body, and try to land with balance, and you are more likely to end up with the ball. Jumping with both feet creates a more balanced, powerful motion. During the jump, use both hands to gain possession of the basketball. After getting the rebound, place the ball near your chest and keep your feet shoulder length apart as you land for increased stability.
Now you should be more confident in your game the next time you play. It’s fun to apply new tips to the court. Use the information above to help you develop your basketball skills. Basketball is a very popular sport, for fans and players alike.